Dubai shuts down 33 unlicensed nurseries; arrests 34 operators

Dubai Police have shut down 33 unlicensed nurseries across the Emirate and arrested 34 operators for violating health and safety standards.

Some nurseries were located inside residential buildings and in places unequipped to offer childcare and lacking in hygiene, thereby exposing children to risks of neglect and abuse, police said.

They added that the nurseries targeted low-income families by offering services at discounted fees.

Dubai Police said they identified the nurseries after receiving several complaints.

Initially, they were placed under surveillance, and the arrests made after inspections were carried out in cooperation with Dubai Municipality, the Community Development Authority, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Dubai Police urged parents to enroll their children at licensed nurseries and dissuaded them from making decisions at the expense of their child's security and health.

The public can report suspicious activities or locations operating illegally by calling 901, or through the Dubai Police's website or smart application.