Abu Dhabi children receive their first digital device at just over 3 years old, as a new study reveals widespread parental approval of early screen exposure.
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| Survey finds 86% of young children in UAE regularly use digital devices, with a majority of parents viewing screen time as beneficial for learning and growth. Image: Collected |
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, May 12, 2025:
Children in Abu Dhabi are now receiving their first digital devices at an average age of 3 years and 4 months, with tablets leading the trend, followed by smartphones. This insight comes from the latest Digital Use Survey by New York University Abu Dhabi, conducted in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), and based on responses from over 10,000 parents of children aged 0 to 8.
The study highlights a significant cultural shift, revealing that 70% of parents are satisfied with their children's screen time—underscoring a growing societal acceptance of early digital exposure. According to the report, 86% of young children in the UAE regularly use digital media, with the figure climbing to 97% among children aged 5 to 8.
The survey is part of the ECA’s broader World Early Childhood Development (WED) Movement, which seeks to advance research, policy, and practices around digital wellbeing for young children.
Dr. Yousef Al Hammadi, Executive Director of Knowledge and Innovation at ECA, said today’s children are digital natives who will continue to grow alongside technology. “When used responsibly, digital media can enhance learning, social interaction, and language development,” he explained. “This is why many parents now view technology as a positive force in their children’s lives.”
However, he cautioned against excessive screen use, urging a balanced approach that includes exercise, face-to-face play, and family interaction. “It’s essential that parents remain engaged and help moderate their children’s digital habits,” he said.
Al Hammadi emphasized the importance of developing structured frameworks to guide healthy digital behavior. “To raise digitally healthy children, we must create environments that support responsible tech use from the earliest years. Research like this allows us to shape strategies and policies that protect and empower future generations.”
Sangita Chima, co-founder of PedTech Global, stressed the importance of parental awareness in digital learning. “Parents need to understand and participate in their child’s digital environment,” she said, recommending tools like Apple Screen Time and Microsoft Family Safety to help set boundaries.
“Not all learning is digital,” Chima added. “A conscious approach builds trust and sets the tone for responsible tech engagement.”
Meanwhile, Dubai-based life coach Girish Hemnani highlighted the need to promote physical activity and emotional development alongside tech use. “Children mirror adult behavior,” he noted. “Encouraging real-world play and communication is vital for their holistic wellbeing.”
The findings from this landmark survey reflect both the promises and challenges of raising children in a digitally connected world—and underline the growing responsibility on parents, educators, and policymakers to build healthy, balanced digital ecosystems for young minds.