What Parents Should Know About Nursery Safety Standards in the UAE

• Protecting children from physical, emotional, and environmental hazards
• Ensuring consistent supervision and staffing
• Promoting healthy and hygienic practices
• Preparing for emergencies and daily risks
• Supporting inclusive and positive learning experiences

1. Federal Law and Licensing

Federal Decree Law No. (51) of 2022, which regulates the operation, location, building standards, staffing, and facilities of nurseries nationwide, requires licenses for nurseries in the United Arab Emirates.

• Nurseries must submit detailed licensing applications to the FAEE.
• Buildings must comply with strict safety, structural, and environmental requirements.
• Personnel must hold relevant qualifications and professional licenses.
• Nurseries are obligated to protect all children, including those with special needs, and provide a supportive and safe environment.

2. Local Authority Requirements

• ADEK (for Abu Dhabi) outlines health, safety, and well-being policies for early education, including safe medication administration, emergency management, infection control, and food safety.
• KHDA (for Dubai) and equivalent local bodies require valid civil defence fire safety certificates, health permits, building safety approvals, and compliance with inspection checklists.

1. Licensing, Permits, and Documentation

A nursery must display its:

• Valid operating license from the relevant educational authority or FAEE
• Civil Defence fire safety certification
• Health department permits
• Insurance and professional liability documentation

2. Staff Qualifications & Ratios

One of the most critical safety considerations is staffing. Adequate supervision ensures children are always within sight and cared for in a timely way. The UAE sets strict staff-to-child ratios, for example:

• 1 caregiver for every 3 infants (under 12 months)
• 1:5 for toddlers aged 1–2 years
• 1:8 for children aged 2–3 years

3. Physical Environment & Building Safety

Safety starts with the building and its layout.

• Location in a quiet, low-risk area (away from heavy traffic noise and hazards)
• Buildings in good structural condition
• Ground or first-floor placement
• Approved play areas with age-appropriate flooring (no hard concrete under equipment)
• Secured outdoor spaces with fencing and shade

4. Health Standards: Hygiene & Infection Control

Nurseries in the UAE must follow stringent cleaning, sanitisation, and infection control measures.

• Daily hygiene routines include:
• Toys are cleaned and sanitised regularly, especially for younger children
• Regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, tables)
• Bathrooms and diapering areas are cleaned multiple times daily
• Proper waste disposal protocols

5. Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies, whether fires, injuries, or sudden illness, can happen anywhere at any time. Excellent nursery practice readiness through:

• Monthly fire drills (with quick evacuation times)
• Clear, visible evacuation maps
• Defined assembly points
• Assigned roles for staff during emergencies
• Contact information for parents/guardians

6. Child Protection and Safeguarding

Child protection policies outline how a nursery prevents and responds to abuse, neglect, or inappropriate behaviour.

• Safeguarding training for all staff
• Clear procedures for reporting concerns
• Defined disciplinary standards (prohibiting physical and psychological punishment)
• Individual risk assessments and supervision policies for vulnerable children

• Are licences and permits current?
• Is fire safety certification visible?

• Do staff greet you professionally?
• Do ratios match the age group present?
• Are teachers trained in health & safety?

• Are indoor and outdoor areas clean and secure?
• Is the equipment age-appropriate and well-maintained?

• Are hand-washing stations readily available?
• Is there a clear illness and infection control protocol?

• Can staff explain emergency procedures?
• Are evacuation routes and maps visibly displayed?

• How does the nursery communicate with families?
• Are incident logs accessible?