Unlicensed nurseries in Dubai put children at risk of neglect and unsafe conditions.
Dubai Police have arrested 34 people for operating 33 unlicensed nurseries across the emirate. Some of the facilities were based in residential buildings and failed to meet basic hygiene and safety standards, exposing children to the risk of neglect and abuse.
The illegal nurseries operated from premises that were not designed or equipped to provide childcare. Some allegedly used residential units to offer low-cost services to families unable to afford fees at licensed nurseries.
The facilities targeted low-income households by advertising cheaper childcare options while operating without the licences and regulatory oversight required to protect children.
The arrests followed field inspections and investigations carried out by Dubai Police in coordination with Dubai Municipality, the Community Development Authority and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
The joint campaign sought to clamp down on unlicensed childcare facilities, strengthen child protection and prevent potential risks and offences.
Dubai Police said the illegal operations came to light after search and investigation teams received information about nurseries operating in several parts of the emirate. Officers identified the locations, placed them under surveillance and raided the premises in coordination with partner authorities, resulting in the arrest of 34 suspects.
Children exposed to neglect and abuse
Highlighting the dangers posed by these facilities, Dubai Police said they operated in unsuitable premises with poor hygiene and inadequate safety measures.
“The danger of these nurseries lies in their operating outside childcare regulations, in locations unequipped to receive children, with low hygiene levels and no safety standards. These conditions, combined with the absence of institutional oversight of their staff, expose children to neglect or abuse,” the force said.
Police said the arrests are part of ongoing efforts to protect children and crack down on practices that put their safety at risk. The force stressed that all childcare providers must comply with the laws, licensing conditions and regulations governing nursery operations.
It also warned parents against leaving children at premises that are not licensed or equipped to provide childcare services.
Parents urged to verify nursery licences
Dubai Police advised parents, particularly those living in residential communities, not to be lured by advertisements offering low-cost childcare or make enrolment decisions based solely on fees.
Parents were urged to check that a nursery holds a valid official licence before enrolling their children, stressing that affordability should never come before children’s health, safety and security.
The force also called on community members to help authorities identify illegal childcare operations by reporting suspicious activities or locations suspected of running unlicensed nurseries.
Reports can be made through the Dubai Police call centre on 901, or via the force’s website and smart application.
