The UAE has one of the most advanced early childhood education systems in the Middle East, with a strong emphasis on bilingual education (Arabic and English), STEAM learning, and digital literacy. Early education is a key part of the national development strategy, with both private and public institutions offering diverse curricula, including IB, British, and American programs.
The Ministry of Education regulates kindergartens to ensure high standards, and policies focus on holistic child development. Private international schools cater to expatriates, while public schools emphasize Arabic heritage and Emirati cultural values. Many kindergartens integrate technology, creativity, and inquiry-based learning, encouraging critical thinking from a young age.
Flexible preschool options, such as Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired programs, are widely available. Government initiatives promote inclusive education, supporting children with special needs and providing financial aid to families in need. Despite high-quality education, affordability can be a concern, as private education is costly.
The UAE is continuously investing in teacher training, infrastructure, and digital learning tools to maintain its position as a leader in early childhood education in the region.
UAEは、中東でも最も進んだ幼児教育システムを持つ国の一つであり、バイリンガル教育(アラビア語と英語)、STEAM教育、デジタルリテラシーを重視しています。幼児教育は国家発展戦略の重要な一環と位置付けられ、公立・私立の両セクターで幅広いカリキュラムが提供されています。特に、IB、英国式、米国式カリキュラムを採用する国際学校が多く存在します。
UAE教育省は幼稚園の質を維持するために厳格な基準を設けており、公立校ではアラブ文化とUAEの価値観を重視した教育が行われています。一方、私立校ではテクノロジーを活用した創造的な学習、探究型学習が導入され、幼児期からの批判的思考を促しています。
また、モンテッソーリやレッジョ・エミリアなどの柔軟な教育プログラムも幅広く普及しています。政府は特別支援教育や経済的支援にも力を入れており、インクルーシブな教育環境を整備しています。課題としては、私立幼稚園の学費が高額であることが挙げられますが、継続的な投資と政策改革により、UAEは質の高い幼児教育の維持に努めています。
Saudi Arabia has traditionally emphasized family-based learning and religious teachings in early childhood education. However, under Vision 2030, the country is undergoing significant educational reforms aimed at modernizing the sector and increasing access to early education. The government is focusing on improving school infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and incorporating digital learning. These reforms emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and STEAM education while maintaining Islamic values. The introduction of kindergartens across the country aims to improve early literacy and numeracy skills.
Although early childhood education is not yet mandatory, the Saudi government recognizes its importance in preparing children for primary education. The Ministry of Education has launched initiatives to increase kindergarten enrollment and align its curriculum with international standards. Private sector involvement is also expanding, with international schools offering diverse curricula, including Montessori and IB (International Baccalaureate).
Challenges include limited accessibility in rural areas and the need for more trained educators. However, with continued investment and policy changes, Saudi Arabia aims to create a balanced early education system that integrates modern pedagogy with cultural and religious traditions.