In today’s interconnected world, raising children who are curious, respectful, and globally minded is more important than ever. Introducing Middle Eastern culture in early years settings is one way to foster empathy, inclusivity, and resilience from the very start.
The Middle East is often portrayed through stereotypes in the media, yet it is a region rich in language, history, art, food, and traditions that span centuries. By exploring these cultural treasures through stories, clothing, and food, children begin to see the world not as a distant or divided place, but as a shared human experience.
For nurseries and families, integrating cultural traditions is more than just celebrating festivals. It helps children understand diversity in real and tangible ways, building the foundations for becoming global citizens, curious about others, confident in themselves, and prepared to thrive in a pluralistic society.
Book Online TourBook A VisitThe Middle East covers a diverse set of countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, each with its own traditions yet connected by shared values such as hospitality, community, and respect for family.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), for example, culture blends the ancient and the modern. In Dubai, skyscrapers stand alongside traditional souks, and international cuisines mix with shawarma and falafel stands. The UAE has also become a hub for global collaboration, making its culture an inspiring example for young children to explore.
Ancient Arab culture continues to influence the world today. Contributions in science, mathematics, literature, and architecture trace back to Arab scholars. Exploring these stories in classrooms helps children understand that knowledge and creativity have always been global, with roots in many cultures.
Traditional Arab clothing is a powerful way to introduce children to the idea of identity and belonging. For men, garments like the thobe (dishdasha) or kandura represent modesty and tradition, often in plain white to reflect the hot desert climate. For women, garments such as the abaya or jalabiya are equally symbolic, ranging from everyday wear to elaborate embroidered pieces for special occasions.
Clothing in Arabic culture is not just about appearance, it reflects history, climate, and faith. Teaching children about traditional Arabic clothing through dress-up activities can encourage role play, imagination, and respect for cultural differences. For instance, exploring how clothing varies between celebrations and daily life allows children to see how traditions shape identity across generations.
Food is often the most immediate and joyful way to connect with a new culture, and the Middle East is famous for its rich culinary traditions.
Shawarma, hummus, falafel, and kebabs are staples that children may already recognise, while Middle Eastern breakfast foods such as flatbreads with labneh or za’atar open doors to new tastes. Sweet dishes like baklava or basbousa introduce children to desserts steeped in tradition, while simple recipes like pitta bread with dips can be recreated in classrooms.
Cooking activities in nurseries allow children to explore texture, smell, and taste while learning about the importance of food in Arab traditions. Meals are central to hospitality in Arab countries, reflecting values of generosity and community. Sharing food in class is not only fun but also teaches children that eating together builds bonds across cultures.
For centuries, the Middle East has been known as the land of storytellers. Arabian Nights (One Thousand and One Nights) is perhaps the most famous collection of tales, filled with adventures, morals, and magical characters. Stories like Aladdin and Sinbad continue to inspire films and books worldwide.
But storytelling in Arabic culture goes far beyond fairytales. Poetry, passed down orally for generations, remains central to Arab identity. Even today, poets and storytellers are celebrated in festivals across the region. Introducing these tales to children helps them understand the power of words in shaping community and imagination.
Traditions also extend to animals and symbols. For instance, cats in Arab culture are often seen as sacred, respected since the time of Prophet Muhammad. Sharing such stories helps children connect compassion for animals with cultural beliefs.
Festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Ramadan traditions bring together food, family, and storytelling, offering educators opportunities to integrate activities that reflect celebration, kindness, and reflection.
Integrating Middle Eastern culture in nurseries and homes can be both educational and joyful when done through hands-on, child-centred activities.
The goal is not tokenism but authentic, consistent exposure. Activities should highlight the diversity across Arab countries while focusing on universal values of family, kindness, and creativity.
Exploring Middle Eastern cultures in the early years is not just about expanding knowledge, it’s about shaping children into global citizens. By celebrating traditions from the Middle East alongside other world cultures, nurseries create environments where difference is embraced rather than feared.
Children who engage with stories, food, and clothing from the Arab world develop:
This approach lays the groundwork for resilience and adaptability, qualities they will carry into school, work, and life in an increasingly interconnected global community.
At Hatching Dragons, our multicultural curriculum is built on this very principle. By celebrating cultures from around the world, including the rich traditions of the Middle East, we nurture children to grow into thoughtful, respectful, and globally minded individuals.
At Hatching Dragons, we believe that exploring cultures like those of the Middle East is vital in raising global citizens. From stories and food to traditions and celebrations, our nurseries weave diversity into daily routines, helping children build empathy, confidence, and curiosity about the world.
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What is Middle Eastern culture?
It refers to the traditions, values, food, clothing, and stories from Arab countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Lebanon, each sharing hospitality, family focus, and creativity.
What are examples of Middle Eastern traditions for children to learn?
Storytelling from Arabian Nights, festivals like Ramadan and Eid, food traditions like sharing meals, and dressing in traditional clothing.
Why is food an important part of Middle Eastern culture?
Meals symbolise hospitality, generosity, and community, with dishes like shawarma, hummus, and falafel central to daily life and celebrations.
What does traditional Arab clothing represent?
It reflects modesty, climate, and heritage, with garments like the abaya, thobe, and kandura connecting people to cultural identity and celebration.
How can teachers introduce Middle Eastern culture in early years classrooms?
Through stories, dress-up activities, food tasting, music, and art that celebrate the diversity and values of Arab cultures.