In a step that reflects thoughtful national expansion in early childhood education As part of its ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen community presence, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD), in collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), announced the opening of a new branch of “Al Fareej Nursery” at the Al Mizhar Islamic Cultural Center.
The inauguration was held in the esteemed presence of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Her Excellency Hessa bint Issa Buhumaid, Her Excellency Aisha Miran, and His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of IACAD. This new branch becomes the second of its kind, following the first established at the Umm Al Sheif Islamic Cultural Center, marking a deliberate and strategic expansion of this pioneering national model in early childhood education.
The nursery aims to offer an integrated Emirati educational experience within an environment inspired by the spirit of the traditional “Fareej” (neighborhood), with educational modules rooted in authentic local heritage. The initiative seeks to instill national identity and Islamic values in children from an early age, while providing Emirati families with a safe, supportive, and culturally rich learning environment.
Speaking at the event, H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim emphasized that the Al Fareej Nursery project represents a comprehensive community model that revives traditional Emirati values in daily life, strengthens family bonds, and offers children a balanced upbringing that blends heritage with modern aspirations.
He affirmed that the nursery embodies a national message reflecting the country’s commitment to preserving identity, promoting the Arabic language, and fostering belonging. He praised the efforts of IACAD and KHDA in transforming this vision into reality through their commitment to supporting Emirati families in fulfilling their educational roles.
His Excellency further commended the nursery’s positive outcomes achieved in a short time, stating:
“Dubai takes pride in leading initiatives that place people at the center of development. Investing in the next generation is the true investment for a brighter, more sustainable future. This nursery stands out as the finest I have seen in terms of planning, classroom layout, and program design — with a strong focus on moral education, Emirati values, and the reinforcement of social ethics in our children.”
On this occasion, H.E. Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of IACAD, stated that the launch of the new nursery branch is a qualitative step towards activating Islamic cultural centers to meet community needs and expectations. He added:
“We are continuously working to be closer to the community, utilizing our facilities to offer high-quality educational and developmental services that empower families while keeping pace with modern changes.” He concluded:
“This project reflects our vision of nurturing balanced generations that combine authenticity and Islamic values with modern knowledge and future skills.” From her side, H.E. Aisha Abdullah Miran, Director General of KHDA, praised the ongoing strategic partnership with IACAD within the Al Fareej Nursery initiative, which aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Education Strategy 2033 and addresses the educational needs of Emirati families in the heart of residential communities.
She stated:
“This pioneering project offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children during this critical developmental stage. It contributes to building a conscious and distinguished generation connected to its national identity, Islamic values, and authentic Emirati culture. We hope this new branch at Al Mizhar Islamic Cultural Center meets the aspirations of parents and becomes a space that embodies social cohesion and deep-rooted Emirati values.”
The launch of this branch marks a significant milestone in the journey of Al Fareej Nursery, which began at the Umm Al Sheif Islamic Cultural Center and continues its success at Al Mizhar Islamic Cultural Center, reinforcing its status as a leading community initiative that strengthens family cohesion and provides high-quality programs aligned with international best practices — all while remaining deeply connected to cultural roots and national identity.