Crayons Nursery set to open in Nad Al Sheba, redefining early learning with a global, play-based model

Dubai’s early education landscape is set for transformation with the upcoming launch of Crayons Nursery, a purpose-built early years centre by Nalapad Investments and MVK Holdings in Nad Al Sheba 1. The nursery, which officially broke ground this week, will open its doors to toddlers in May 2026, followed by FS1 and FS2 admissions starting September 2026.

The groundbreaking event drew a diverse audience, including government dignitaries, education leaders, media representatives and local families. The event’s chief guest, Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar, CEO of the Knowledge Fund Establishment, commended the initiative for its forward-looking approach to early childhood development.

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Purpose-built to accommodate 200 children aged 45 days to 5 years, Crayons Nursery aims to provide a nurturing and stimulating bilingual environment where young learners can explore, imagine and thrive. Inspired by the globally respected EYFS curriculum, the nursery also integrates elements from Montessori and Finnish education systems, setting a new benchmark in quality early education for Dubai families.

"Every child deserves a beginning where their curiosity is honoured and their individuality is nurtured," said Abdulla Nalapad Ahmed, managing director of Nalapad Investments and chairman of Credence High School. "Crayons Nursery is our commitment to families in Dubai. It is a space where children will be encouraged to explore, express, and grow in a caring environment. We are building more than a nursery. We are shaping the early years of tomorrow’s innovators, leaders, and change-makers."

"We are committed to contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s long-term plan for a diversified and knowledge-driven economy, in line with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority’s (KHDA) Education 33 transformative vision, aimed to position the emirate as a global hub for education and innovation. Crayons Nursery reflects the kind of forward-thinking, learner-centric approach that lays the foundation for academic excellence, cultural empowerment, equitable access, innovative practices and personal development from the very earliest years," he added.

Sameer K Mohamed, managing director of MVK Holdings and governor of Credence High School, added: "Families today seek more than just a preschool. They want a place where their children feel safe, inspired, and celebrated. Crayons Nursery brings together leading pedagogical practices from the EYFS, Montessori, and Finnish models within a thoughtfully designed campus. Our vision is to create a centre where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. This is the beginning of a larger journey to bring Crayons to more communities across the UAE."

"Crayons Nursery creates a safe and enriching space where children fall in love with learning at their own pace. By celebrating curiosity and emotional well-being, the nursery aims to cultivate confident, kind, resilient learners, and as a process making the children ready for the school,” he added.

The educational philosophy at Crayons Nursery is guided by the belief that children learn best through joy and exploration. With the motto ‘We Explore, We Imagine, We Bloom’, the centre’s approach integrates structured development tracking with free play, music, nature-based activities, splash zones, and role play. Educators will work in close partnership with parents to support each child’s unique learning journey.

The Nad Al Sheba campus is only the beginning. The founders of Crayons Nursery envision a network of centres across the UAE, each designed to provide the same standard of care, creativity, and learning.