Dubai Police have shut down 33 unlicensed nurseries and arrested 34 people operating them, saying the facilities lacked basic hygiene, health and safety standards and exposed children to the risk of neglect and abuse.

Many of the facilities reportedly targeted low-income families by offering childcare at lower fees than licensed nurseries, but operated without the licences and regulatory oversight required for childcare services.

Investigators identified several locations operating illegally in different parts of Dubai. After placing them under surveillance, teams from the relevant authorities carried out raids that led to the arrests.

Some operators had converted residential units into childcare facilities, although the premises were not designed or equipped to receive children. Police also raised concerns about poor hygiene, the lack of safety measures and the absence of proper oversight of staff.

The operation 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.

Dubai Police urged parents not to choose childcare facilities based solely on low fees or advertisements, and to verify that a nursery is properly licensed.

(Source: Khaleej Times)