Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, has officially inaugurated the third edition of the Horouf & Kalimat – Early Childhood Literacy Conference 2026. Held at ERTH Abu Dhabi, this landmark event marks the conference’s first edition in the UAE capital since its inception. At Business Promotion24, we are proud to highlight such transformative initiatives that shape the future of education and cultural identity in the region.
A Strategic Vision for Arabic Literacy
Organised by Kalimat Group in strategic partnership with the National Academy for Childhood Development, the conference receives high-level support from the UAE Ministry of Education and IFA Hotels & Resorts as main sponsors. Other key education partners include the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) and the ZAI Centre for Arabic Language Research at Zayed University.
Running from 30 October to 1 November, the 2026 edition brings together over 50 academics, researchers, and educators. The comprehensive programme features four keynote presentations, 14 panel discussions, 13 interactive workshops, and an intensive, certified course in the Science of Reading. These sessions are designed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical classroom application.
Arabic as the Foundation of Cultural Identity
In her inspiring opening address, Sheikha Bodour emphasised that language is more than just a tool for communication; it is a pillar of national security. “Empowering children through their mother tongue has become an essential part of our cultural security and national future,” she stated. Sheikha Bodour highlighted that success is measured by the emotional and cultural relationship children build with the Arabic language, fostering confidence and a strong sense of identity.
Business Promotion24 notes that this vision aligns perfectly with the UAE’s “Year of the Family,” as the conference explores how everyday activities—like shared reading and conversation—can strengthen language development and home-school cooperation.
Expertise and Collaboration at ERTH Abu Dhabi
Dr. Meera Al Kaabi, Acting President of the National Academy for Childhood Development, stressed the importance of investing in early childhood literacy to raise a generation of lifelong learners. The conference serves as a global platform for exchanging best practices and strengthening the roles of educators and caregivers.
A highlight of the opening ceremony was the panel titled ‘The UAE’s Role in Supporting Arabic Language Learning in Early Childhood.’ Industry leaders from Dubai’s KHDA, Abu Dhabi’s ADEK, and the Sharjah Education Academy discussed national policies, teacher training, and the creation of language-rich environments to support the UAE’s national vision for education.
The Science of Reading and Professional Development
Beyond discussions, the conference offers a certified 18-hour course on the Science of Reading for kindergarten and Grade 1 teachers. This course utilizes neuroscience research to equip educators with strategies to assess learning needs and implement effective interventions, ensuring that Arabic literacy instruction is grounded in proven scientific methods.
Sheikha Bodour concluded the inaugural day by touring the exhibition, which showcases the latest digital tools, educational resources, and Arabic children’s books. She also took the time to honour the sponsors and partners whose contributions are vital to the success of this mission.
For more updates on educational leadership and major events in the UAE, stay tuned to Business Promotion24.
