Welcome to AKELC
A Remarkable Start to a Lifetime of Learning
Aga Khan Early Learning Centre (AKELC) has been providing high-quality Early Years education in Dubai since 2010. As a non-profit nursery in Dubai, our focus remains on delivering meaningful early learning experiences for young children.
We follow the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, combining play-based learning with thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage curiosity, confidence and independence in children.
Our experienced Early Years educators provide individual attention to children, recognising that every child learns and develops at their own pace.
The Aga Khan Education Services, a philanthropic agency, will draw on its own extensive experience in many parts of the world to offer broad, holistic, early childhood education on a secular and non-denominational basis at the highest standards of excellence. The objective is to have a curriculum of proven calibre, taught by competent teachers, to help lay strong foundations for a child's continuing educational growth.
Recognised for the care we give
- KHDA Approved
- Best Nursery Dubai 2019
- NDNA Level 3 – Exemplary (UK)
- Jawda 5-Star
- Edarabia Parents' Choice
Why families choose AKELC
Why Parents Choose AKELC?
AKELC is a safe, nurturing nursery in Dubai, where everything we do is built around your child's wellbeing and individual needs.
Award-Winning Nursery
We are an award-winning nursery in Dubai, recognised for its commitment to quality education.
Purpose-Built for Play & Learning
Spacious, light-filled classrooms designed for young children, with direct access to outdoor play areas.
Experienced Early Years Team
Qualified and certified educators providing age-appropriate learning and individual attention.
Bilingual Learning
A bilingual nursery, where English and Arabic are integrated into everyday activities and experiences.
Indoor & Outdoor Play
Four dedicated outdoor play areas and a spacious indoor gym give your child plenty of room to move, explore and play.
Play-Based, Screen-Free Learning
Purposeful play and hands-on experiences support children's development across all seven EYFS learning areas, without relying on screens.
Our programmes
EYFS British Curriculum Nursery Programmes for Early Learning
From first discoveries to preparing for school, our age-appropriate programmes support children's learning, confidence and independence.
Nursery for 12 months to 4 years
12 Months – 24 Months
Younger Toddlers
Sensory Discovery
Exploring different textures, sounds and materials through hands-on play that encourages curiosity and discovery.
Early Communication
Songs, stories and everyday interactions help children recognise words, express their needs and develop early language skills.
Growing Independence
Simple choices, familiar routines and age-appropriate activities help children build confidence and begin doing things for themselves.
25–35 Months
Older Toddlers
As children become more confident exploring the world around them, our Older Toddlers (pre-FS1) programme introduces new opportunities for imaginative play, social interaction and early literacy and numeracy through hands-on activities.
Imaginative Play & Creativity
Role-play, painting, building and creative activities encourage children to explore ideas, express themselves and use their imagination.
Friendships & Social Skills
Small-group activities help children build friendships, practise taking turns, express feelings and learn to play together.
Early Thinking & Problem-Solving
Through stories, rhymes, counting games and sorting activities, children begin recognising shapes, exploring numbers and developing an interest in letters and sounds.
3 – 4 Years
Foundation Stage 1 (FS1)
Our FS1 programme strengthens early literacy, numeracy, independence and problem-solving skills through purposeful play, preparing children for their next steps in school.
Early Phonics & Literacy
Through Jolly Phonics, children learn letter sounds, recognise letters and begin developing the foundations of reading and writing through songs, stories and activities.
Early Mathematics
Counting, recognising numbers, exploring shapes and identifying patterns help children develop mathematical understanding through practical, hands-on activities.
Confidence & School Readiness
Group activities, classroom routines and independent tasks help children develop communication, concentration and social skills for a confident transition to school.
Areas of learning
The seven areas of learning
Our EYFS British curriculum nursery programmes cover seven key areas of learning to help children develop essential skills through play, exploration and everyday experiences. Since around 90% of brain development happens by age five, we make every moment count.
- Communication & Language
- Physical Development
- Personal, Social & Emotional Development
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
- Expressive Arts & Design
- Arabic Language & Culture
Virtual tour
Take a Look Inside AKELC
Watch a short film of a day at AKELC, or walk through our rooms with the 360° virtual tour.
360° virtual tour
Explore our classrooms, library, gym and gardens from home.
Parent testimonials
What AKELC Parents Say
What makes AKELC one of the best British nurseries in Dubai? Hear it from our parents.
Admissions
Come See AKELC for Yourself
Explore our classrooms, meet our Early Years team and discover what makes AKELC a special place for your child's first years of learning.
Enquire
Send us an enquiry or call us — we'll answer your questions.
Visit
Book a personalised tour and meet our Early Years team.
Enrol
Complete the admissions form and secure your child's place.
Your Neighbourhood British Nursery in Oud Metha
Visit one of the most trusted nursery schools in Dubai
Meet our educators and explore our purpose-built learning spaces firsthand — at the Ismaili Centre Dubai in Oud Metha, near Dubai Healthcare City, American Hospital Dubai and Oud Metha Metro.