Arabic, Islamic & Social Studies

At Glendale International School Dubai, Arabic, Islamic Education, and Social Studies form a vital part of our holistic curriculum. These subjects play a central role in nurturing cultural understanding, national identity, moral values, and responsible citizenship, in line with the UAE Ministry of Education (MOE) requirements and the ethos of the British curriculum.

Arabic Language Programme

Preserving Language, Celebrating Identity

Preserving Language, Celebrating Identity

Arabic is a cornerstone of life in the United Arab Emirates, and at Glendale, we recognise its importance in fostering cultural awareness and national pride.

  • Arabic is taught from FS2 onwards, ensuring early exposure and steady progression.
  • Lessons are delivered in an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment, recognising students’ diverse backgrounds and learning needs.
  • A structured programme ensures gradual language development, confidence, and fluency over time.

From Year 2, students are placed into two clearly defined pathways to support effective learning:

  • Arabic for Native Speakers
  • Arabic for Non-Native Speakers

This differentiation ensures that every student receives teaching suited to their language ability, pace, and academic needs.

  • The programme follows the UAE Ministry of Education Arabic Curriculum.
  • Learning is enriched through:
    • Emirati heritage and cultural studies
    • National celebrations and events
    • Religious and cultural observances
  • These experiences deepen understanding, respect, and appreciation of the UAE’s rich cultural fabric.

Islamic Education

Building Character, Faith and Values

Islamic Education is offered to Muslim students in accordance with the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, supporting spiritual growth alongside academic development.

Building Character, Faith and Values

Islamic Education is offered to Muslim students in accordance with the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, supporting spiritual growth alongside academic development.

Building Character, Faith and Values

Key areas of learning include

Qur’an studies

Hadith

Aqeedah (Islamic beliefs)

Acts of worship

Seerah (life of the Prophet)

Islamic morals and values

The programme is delivered in a respectful, inclusive setting, encouraging reflection, ethical understanding, and positive character development while nurturing a strong moral compass.

Social Studies & Moral Education

Understanding the UAE and Our Role in Society

Understanding the UAE and Our Role in Society

Social Studies and Moral Education are integrated to provide students with a strong foundation in national identity, citizenship, and social responsibility.

Through these subjects, students learn about

The history and formation of the United Arab Emirates

The values of the UAE Union

Emirati traditions, culture, and heritage

Tolerance, respect, and coexistence

Rights, responsibilities, and positive citizenship

These subjects empower students to become

Confident and informed individuals

Respectful and socially responsible citizens

Proud contributors to their school and wider community

Some common questions answered

Yes. Arabic is taught from FS2 onwards to all students, in line with UAE Ministry of Education requirements. The programme is carefully structured to support students of different language abilities.

From Year 2, students are placed into two pathways:

  • Arabic for Native Speakers
  • Arabic for Non-Native Speakers

This ensures that learning is appropriately paced, differentiated, and effective for each group, allowing all students to progress with confidence.

The Arabic programme follows the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, enriched with learning experiences linked to Emirati culture, heritage, national identity, and key national celebrations.

Islamic Education is offered to Muslim students in accordance with the UAE Ministry of Education guidelines. The programme supports students’ spiritual, moral, and personal development in a respectful and inclusive environment.

Social Studies and Moral Education help students understand:

  • The history and formation of the UAE
  • Emirati traditions and cultural heritage
  • National values, tolerance, and respect
  • Citizenship, social responsibility, and community engagement

These subjects strengthen students’ sense of identity and belonging within the UAE.