Nationwide 'Early Childhood Week' to begin across UAE on Monday

The first nationwide edition of "Early Childhood Week" will begin across the UAE on Monday, bringing together families, children and more than 130 organisations for over 300 events and activities.

The initiative runs from November 16-22 under the theme “Every Moment Matters” and is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority.

Organised by the Ministry of Family in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, the week forms part of the Year of the Family 2026 programme and is aimed at children up to the age of eight, along with their families and caregivers.

Activities across the seven emirates will include play-based learning, storytelling, reading sessions, arts and music, heritage experiences, health and fitness programmes and initiatives supporting children of determination.

Dubai’s Community Development Authority will stage City of the Future at Dubai Hills Mall, featuring interactive stations focused on health, learning, creativity, inclusion and sustainability.

Higher Colleges of Technology campuses in Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah will host forums, carnivals and workshops, while Sharjah’s House of Wisdom will offer theatrical performances, sensory spaces and family activities.

Ajman will host Sooq Al-Freej: Early Childhood Neighbourhood Market, where children can run small stalls with their families, while Fujairah, Umm Al Qaiwain and Ras Al Khaimah will hold heritage, storytelling and educational programmes.

The week will also coincide with World Children’s Day on November 20, with a one-kilometre Childhood Run planned in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah.

The accompanying "Together in Blue" campaign will encourage organisations and community members to show support for children’s rights by incorporating the colour blue into buildings and activities.

The programme also includes the "A Moment Together at School" initiative, bringing parents and caregivers into schools for reading, play and discovery activities.

Several events have already taken place ahead of the official launch, including a children-focused welcome initiative at Dubai International Airport and an interactive UAE National Orchestra performance at NYU Abu Dhabi.

Families can find the full programme, timings and venues through the Early Childhood Week website and official social media channels.