Did you know that the ideal time to enroll your child in nursery is September? This advice comes from the Early Years learning experts at Kids First Group, Dubai’s leading education organization. Starting your child in the very first term, rather than later, allows them to fully immerse themselves in the settling-in period alongside their peers. It helps them establish routines and forge friendships, which is particularly beneficial if they are new to a nursery environment. Additionally, enrolling early can help you avoid long waiting lists as many nurseries tend to fill up by the second term.
To assist you in making a well-informed decision about the best nursery for your child, we have compiled a list of some of the most highly regarded options in Dubai, as recommended by Kids First Group. These nurseries come highly recommended by parents, ensuring that whichever choice you make will be an educated one.
Odyssey Nursery
Why parents love it: It’s multilingual, creative, and nature-inspired. Parents rave about the diverse languages their children are exposed to at Odyssey, with native French and Arabic-speaking teachers and assistants readily available. The nursery fosters a strong sense of community and encourages parent involvement, which is a highlight for many families. Following the American early learning curriculum, Odyssey is recognized for its progressive and accountable approach to early years development.
At Odyssey, classrooms are designed to be an extension of your child’s world, bringing nature indoors and utilizing natural resources for sensory learning. As part of the Reggio Emilia network of nurseries, its philosophy of ‘The 100 Languages of Children’ emphasizes a diverse teaching style that incorporates nature, creativity, and much more.
Locations in Dubai: Umm Suqeim 2, Jumeirah Beach Residences, Burj Al Arab, Living Legends, Meydan, Sheikh Zayed Road (CityWalk)
Also available in Abu Dhabi: Saadiyat, West Yas, Al Muneera, Al Zeina, Mushrif, Khalifa City
Redwood Montessori Nursery
Why parents love it: Premium Montessori learning and an outstanding reputation. Redwood Montessori Nursery embraces diverse cultures within the classroom, integrating Arabic, Russian, French, and Spanish into its curriculum. Upon entering any of their branches—from Al Furjan and Jumeirah Parks to Garhoud—you can expect top-notch facilities, thoughtfully designed classrooms tailored to your child’s exploratory needs.
Parents appreciate the specialized tools designed specifically for Montessori education that are not readily available elsewhere.
Locations in Dubai: Al Furjan, Jumeirah Parks, Garhoud, The Palm Jumeirah
Locations in Abu Dhabi: Al Nahyan, Al Marina, Shams Boutik, Yas Island, Al Mushrif, Khalifa City, Reem Island, Al Bateen
Willow Children’s Nursery
Why parents love it: High-quality, passionate teachers and the UK’s EYFS curriculum. The first aspect that many parents highlight about Willow Nurseries is the evident passion displayed by its educators. Willow effectively combines the best elements of two educational systems: the UK EYFS curriculum and the child-led learning approach of Reggio Emilia.
Whether you opt for its nursery located in the city’s bustling business district, ONE Central, or select its Umm Suqeim location, Willow Nursery remains committed to its values and identity, featuring numerous natural environments that promote free play and exploration.
Locations in Dubai: Umm Suqeim, ONE Central, Dubai Marina
Redwood Center of Excellence
Why parents love it: Innovative curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and the only International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme preschool in the UAE. As the newest and largest preschool in this selection, Redwood Center of Excellence (Redwood COE) has quickly gained popularity, even setting a UAE record with its offering of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for children aged three and older.
Often described as a ‘mini university,’ Redwood features a library, gym, sensory room, botanical garden, Reggio atelier, and splash pad, along with its dedicated outdoor play area. The curriculum at Redwood integrates Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) within the Early Years Foundation Stages Framework (EYFS), blending these approaches for optimal developmental outcomes. This comprehensive framework supports children in developing a multitude of essential skills, including communication, language, critical thinking, emotional literacy, physical well-being, life skills, creativity, and much more.
Locations in Dubai: Al Barsha 2 (Jubail Island in Abu Dhabi opening next year)
