The key facts
- 33 illegal nurseries closed, 34 people arrested
- The nurseries targeted low-income families and offered cheap childcare
- Suspicious establishments can be reported by calling 901 or via the police app
Mass closure of illegal nurseries
Dubai Police closed 33 unregistered nurseries that operated in residential homes and other premises unsuitable for childcare, and arrested 34 people. This was reported by The National on 6 November 2026, citing a police statement. The establishments targeted low-income families and offered inexpensive childcare, but did not comply with established rules.
What the inspection revealed
According to the police, some of the premises did not meet sanitary standards and safety requirements, and staff worked without proper oversight. The authority stressed that the danger of such nurseries lies in operating outside the childcare regulatory system — in places not equipped to receive children, with low hygiene levels and an absence of safety standards. The arrests took place after field inspections and investigations conducted by Dubai Municipality, the Community Development Authority, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The nurseries identified were first kept under surveillance, after which mass arrests followed.
Regulatory context and recommendations for parents
The issue of informal childcare in Dubai is regulated not only through bans: back in April 2026, the local education authority KHDA approved a nursery-style home-based learning format similar to nurseries, as The National also reported. The police urged parents to verify that an establishment holds a valid licence before enrolling their child, and warned against choosing services solely because of a low price or advertising. Suspicious illegal nurseries can be reported by phone at 901 or through the Dubai Police website or mobile app.
