From Montessori to British EYFS: What Parents Need to Know About Nurseries in Qatar

With so many nursery options in Doha, it’s easy to feel unsure where to start. Between curriculum types, fees, and different approaches to early learning, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you're looking for a British-style early years program, a Montessori approach, or something play-based and flexible, this guide will help you understand your options, compare top nurseries in Doha, and make an informed choice for your little one.

Choosing a nursery is often the first big step in your child’s educational journey, and understanding how this works in Qatar can help you make a more confident choice.

Nurseries in Qatar typically accept children from around two months up to four years old, depending on the setting. Some also offer preschool or early kindergarten programs that transition children into formal schooling by age four or five.

Age groups and learning milestones 

While the terms nursery, preschool, and kindergarten can sometimes be used interchangeably, they usually refer to different stages of early childhood education. In Qatar, nurseries typically welcome children from as young as two to three months up to around three years old. The focus at this stage is on basic care, sensory exploration, and early social development in a nurturing environment. Preschool, which often overlaps with the older nursery age group — around ages three to four — introduces more structured activities like guided play, storytelling, and singing to build foundational skills. Kindergarten, usually for children aged four to five, marks the transition to formal schooling and focuses on school readiness — including early literacy, numeracy, and group learning.

Common early learning curriculum in Qatar

Nurseries across Doha offer a range of educational approaches to suit different parenting styles, cultures, and learning goals. Here are the most common:

British EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage): EYFS is a popular choice among expats, especially in British-affiliated nurseries. This type of learning focuses on play and observation, encouraging development in seven key areas, including communication, physical development, and understanding the world.

Montessori: The Montessori method promotes independence through hands-on learning, allowing children to explore materials at their own pace. Many nurseries in Qatar offer a Montessori-based setting that emphasizes focus, responsibility, and free movement.

Play-based or Reggio Emilia-inspired: These approaches are more open-ended, allowing children to learn through experience, curiosity, and creativity. Reggio Emilia’s settings are typically child-led and collaborative, with the environment serving as the "third teacher."

For many expat families in Qatar, choosing the right nursery means balancing educational values with practical needs. Here are a few things to consider before making a decision:

Location and commute: Nurseries are spread across Doha, from West Bay and The Pearl to Al Duhail and Abu Hamour. Choosing one close to home or work can save time and reduce stress during busy mornings. 

Teaching qualifications and ratios: Ask about the teaching staff’s qualifications, especially for lead teachers. Nurseries in Doha typically follow international standards for child-to-adult ratios — 1:4 for infants, 1:5-1:6 for toddlers, and 1:8 for preschoolers. A lower ratio means more personal attention for your child.

Curriculum and learning approach: Whether you’re looking for a British EYFS program, Montessori-style learning, or a bilingual, play-based setup, make sure the nursery’s philosophy matches your values and your child’s learning style. Some nurseries also offer Arabic or French exposure alongside English.

Safety and hygiene standards: It’s important to ask about health protocols, emergency procedures, and daily cleaning routines. Many nurseries in Qatar have onsite nurses, strict hygiene policies, and secured entry systems, but it’s worth confirming.

Operating hours: Nurseries typically open around 7:00 AM and close between 2:00 PM-5:00 PM, though some offer extended hours for working parents. Check if late pickup is possible, and whether it comes with additional charges.

Join Facebook communities: Local communities such as Expat Moms in Qatar or Qatar Expat Moms & Kids provide real-world recommendations and answers from fellow parents. First-hand feedback is often the best way to learn about daily life at a nursery.

Once you’ve found a nursery that feels like the right fit, the next step is enrollment. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Prepare necessary paperwork: Most nurseries in Qatar will ask for a copy of your child’s passport, their QID if available, vaccination record, and a completed registration form. Some may also request health clearance or emergency contact details.

Apply early: Popular nurseries, especially those with baby and toddler rooms, tend to fill up quickly. It's a good idea to apply a few months in advance — even mid-year — to secure a spot.

Plan a visit: Many nurseries offer tours or observation sessions so your child can get familiar with the space.

Double-check the fine print: Some nurseries charge registration or re-enrollment fees. Ask about upfront payments, sibling discounts, and whether fees are refundable if plans change.