Are you an experienced tefl teacher looking for a new opportunity? If so, the United Arab Emirates may be the perfect destination for you. The UAE offers a wealth of job opportunities for tefl teachers, and with its booming economy and diverse culture, there’s plenty to explore here. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need on to get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates.
Why is teaching English in the United Arab Emirates so great?
Well, for starters, the salaries for teaching English in the UAE are some of the highest in the world. In addition, there are a number of benefits that come with working as a teacher in the UAE, such as free accommodation and airfare. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to work with students from all over the world and experience a truly unique culture.
The United Arab Emirates is also a great place to live. The country is extremely safe and has a low cost of living. In addition, there are plenty of things to do in your free time, whether you want to go shopping, sightseeing, or simply relax on the beach.
It is also a technology-rich country with a modern infrastructure, making it an ideal place to live and work.
How much do TEFL teachers in the United Arab Emirates earn?
The salaries for teaching English in the UAE are some of the highest in the world. In addition, there are a number of benefits that come with working as a teacher in the UAE, such as free accommodation and return airfares to your home country.
The average salary for a TEFL teacher in the UAE is around 18,000-20,000 AED per month ($4900 – $5400 USD). However, salaries will vary depending on your qualifications and experience. For example, teachers with a Master’s degree or PhD can expect to earn a higher salary than those with just a Bachelor’s degree.
In addition to your salary, you will also receive other benefits, these benefits can add up to a considerable amount of money, making teaching in the UAE an extremely attractive option for many people.
Also, don’t forget there is no income tax in the UAE! Which means what you earn is what you take home with you, so what a great opportunity to save.
What requirements are needed to get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates?
To get a TEFL job in the UAE, you will need to have a Bachelor’s degree and be a native English speaker. You’ll also need a TEFL certification, and for some jobs even CELTA or DELTA. For the more competitive ESL teaching jobs you’ll also need a masters degree. Some jobs also require at least 2 years of teaching experience.
It’s also important to have a clean criminal record, as you will be required to submit a police clearance certificate when applying for a job.
If you meet all of the above requirements, then you should have no problem finding a job teaching English in the UAE.
It is also important to note that the UAE is a Muslim country. This means that you will need to respect the local culture and customs. For example, you should dress modestly in public and avoid drinking alcohol in public places.
While the requirements to get a TEFL job in the UAE may seem strict, it is important to remember that the salaries and benefits are some of the best in the world. So if you are willing to meet the requirements, teaching English in the UAE is an excellent opportunity.
What is the job market like for ESL teachers in the United Arab Emirates?
The job market for ESL teachers in the UAE is very good. There is a high demand for English teachers, and as a result, there are many jobs available. In addition, the salaries and benefits are some of the best in the world. If you have previous ESL teaching experience and a TEFL certification, you should have no problem finding a job.
Recently we saw that one recruiting agency alone had over 50 ESL teaching jobs available in the UAE. So if you’re looking for a teaching job in the UAE, there are plenty of options available.
Can I get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates if I have tattoos?
Yes, you can get a TEFL job in the UAE even if you have tattoos, however they can’t be visible in public or while teaching. So if your tattoos can be covered up by clothing, then you shouldn’t have any problem getting a job teaching English in the UAE. Some teachers use make-up or Band-Aids to cover up their tattoos when they are in public or teaching.
What is the best time of year to look for a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates?
The best time to look for a TEFL job in the UAE is between September and November. This is when most schools are hiring for the following academic year. So if you’re looking for a job teaching English in the UAE, this is the best time to start your search. There may be TEFL jobs during other times of the year, but the competition for these jobs is much higher. So if you really want to work in the UAE keep an eye out for job postings throughout the year.
What are the common types of TEFL jobs in the United Arab Emirates?
There are a few different types of TEFL jobs in the UAE. The most common are teaching jobs at private language schools, international schools, and universities. There are also opportunities to teach English online or to work as a corporate trainer.
Private language schools are the most common type of employer for ESL teachers in the UAE. These schools offer a wide range of English courses to students of all levels. The most common type of course is the General English course, which is for students who want to improve their overall English language skills.
International schools are another option for ESL teachers in the UAE. These schools offer an international curriculum, and the students are usually from expat families. The most common type of international school is the British curriculum school.
Universities in the UAE also hire ESL teachers to teach English to their students. These jobs are usually for those who have a master’s degree or higher, as well as teaching experience.
What is the application process like for the TEFL jobs in United Arab Emirates?
The application process for the TEFL jobs in the UAE can vary depending on the employer. However, most employers will require you to submit your CV/resume, a recent photo, and a cover letter. In some cases, you may also be required to submit copies of your passport, degree, and teaching license.
Depending on when you apply it can take several months for the application process to be completed and to start work. So if you’re looking for a job teaching English in the UAE, it’s important to start your search early.
For instance if you start looking in September you may not start your position until March or April.
What are the most common problems that TEFL teachers face in the United Arab Emirates?
There are a few common problems that ESL teachers face in the UAE, mostly to do with culture shock and adjustment. The most common problems are:
-Homesickness
-Culture shock
-Missing family and friends
-Adjusting to the heat
-Dealing with racism
If you’re thinking about teaching English in the UAE, it’s important to be prepared for these challenges. However, many teachers find that the experience is ultimately rewarding and worth the challenges they face.
What are the most common scams for TEFL jobs in the United Arab Emirates?
There are a few common scams that target ESL teachers looking for jobs in the UAE. The most common is the job offer scam, where you’re offered a teaching job but then asked to pay for your own visa or airfare. Other scams include being promised a job but then not being able to get in touch with the employer, or being asked to pay for a job placement service.
If you’re looking for a job teaching English in the UAE, it’s important to be aware of these scams. The best way to avoid them is to only work with reputable employers, and to research any job offer before accepting it.
Otherwise, generally speaking the UAE is a safe place to work as an ESL teacher. There are many reputable employers, and the government is generally supportive of foreign workers. So if you’re thinking about teaching English in the UAE, don’t let the scams deter you – just be sure to do your research before accepting any job offer.
Do I need to speak Arabic to get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates?
No, you don’t need to speak Arabic to get a job teaching English in the UAE. However, it can be helpful if you know some basic phrases. This is because many of the students you’ll be teaching will be Arabs who are learning English as a second language. So if you know some Arabic, it will help you to understand your students and their needs better.
What are the working conditions like for TEFL teachers in the United Arab Emirates?
The working conditions for ESL teachers in the UAE can vary depending on the employer. However, most employers will provide you with a furnished apartment, health insurance, and a flight ticket to the UAE. In some cases, you may also be provided with a car allowance or transportation to and from work.
In the classroom, you can expect to have around 20-30 students. The class sizes can be large, but most schools will provide you with teaching assistants to help manage the classroom.
The working hours for ESL teachers in the UAE are typically around 40 hours per week including classroom hours and prep time. You can expect to have weekends off, as well as a few weeks of vacation throughout the year.
You’ll find most classrooms are well-equipped with technology, and many schools use the latest teaching methods and materials. So if you’re looking for a modern teaching environment, the UAE is a good option.
Best Places to Teach English in the United Arab Emirates
There are many great places to teach English in the UAE. Some of the most popular locations include:
Abu Dhabi
Located on the east coast of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is the capital city and one of the most modern and cosmopolitan cities in the Middle East. With its towering skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and expansive malls, Abu Dhabi is a truly global city. And with a growing number of international schools, it’s also becoming a popular destination for ESL teachers.
Dubai
Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the UAE, and it’s also one of the most popular destinations for ESL teachers. Located on the southeast coast of the UAE, Dubai is a lively and cosmopolitan city with something for everyone. From its world-famous skyline to its luxury hotels and shopping malls, Dubai is truly a global city.
Sharjah
Sharjah is the third largest city in the UAE, and it’s located just north of Dubai. Although it’s not as well-known as some of the other cities in the UAE, Sharjah is a great place to live and work. With its low cost of living, relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful beaches, Sharjah is a great option for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle.
Ajman
Ajman is one of the smallest and most relaxed emirates in the UAE. Located on the coast just north of Sharjah, Ajman is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Ajman is a great place to live and work.
Fujairah
Fujairah is the only emirate in the UAE that is located on the east coast. Fujairah is a small and relaxed emirate, and it’s known for its beautiful beaches and scenic mountains. Fujairah is perfect for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle.
Ras al Khaimah
Ras al Khaimah is the northernmost emirate in the UAE, and it’s known for its beautiful mountains and beaches. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, Ras al Khaimah is a great place to live and work.
How to get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates
Do your research
Before you begin your job search, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the UAE. Read books, articles, and blogs about living and working in the UAE. And if you know anyone who has lived or worked in the UAE, be sure to ask them for advice.
By doing your research you will ensure that you have a realistic expectation of what it’s like to live and work in the UAE. And you’ll be better prepared to find a job that’s right for you.
Get CELTA or DELTA certified
Most ESL teaching jobs in the UAE require a TEFL certification. So if you’re not already TEFL certified, you’ll need to get certified before you can apply for jobs.
There are many great TEFL courses available, and you can even find online courses that will allow you to get certified from the comfort of your own home.
However, by completing a CELTA or DELTA course, you’ll be able to command a higher salary and have more job options. So if you’re serious about teaching in the UAE, it’s worth considering a CELTA or DELTA course.
Get your documents in order
Before you start applying for jobs, make sure you have all the necessary documents in order. This includes your passport, resume, university transcripts and other documents that may be required.
If you’re not sure what documents you’ll need, have a quick look at some job adverts as they will often give a list.
Remember never send original copies of your documents as they may not be returned to you.
Create your resume
Now that you have all your documents in order, it’s time to start creating your resume. If you’re not sure how to create an ESL teaching resume, there are many great templates and examples available online. Just make sure to tailor your resume specifically for ESL teaching jobs.
Make sure to include information about your qualifications, experience, and skills. And be sure to highlight any experience you have working with students from different cultural backgrounds.
If you don’t have much teaching experience, don’t worry. There are many entry-level teaching jobs available in the UAE. Just make sure to highlight any relevant experience you may have, such as working with children or leading group activities.
Ensure your resume is free from any spelling or grammatical errors as this will give a bad first impression to potential employers, especially as an ESL teacher.
Write a great cover letter
After you’ve created your resume, it’s time to start writing your cover letter. A great cover letter will give you a chance to sell yourself to potential employers and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you want to get a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates.
Make sure to tailor your cover letter specifically for each job you apply for. And be sure to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills. Your cover letter should only be one page long, so make sure to only include the most relevant information.
Start applying for jobs
Now that you’ve done your research, gotten TEFL certified, and have all your documents in order, you’re ready to start applying for jobs.
The best way to find ESL teaching jobs in the UAE is to use an online job board such as Just ESL Jobs. There are also a lot of reputable recruiters that specialize in finding jobs for ESL teachers in the UAE. You can also join some Facebook groups such as UAE TEFL Jobs to get a TEFL job in United Arab Emirates, and connect with other ESL teachers in the UAE.
When applying for jobs, make sure to read the job descriptions carefully and only apply for jobs that you’re qualified for, it’s a waste of time applying for jobs that you’re not qualified for and you’ll just end up getting rejected.
Apply to multiple schools
It’s always a good idea to apply to multiple schools, even if you have your heart set on one particular school. The more schools you apply to, the greater your chances of getting hired plus if you get multiple offers you’ll be able to choose the best offer.
When applying to multiple schools, make sure to tailor your application specifically for each school. This includes your resume, cover letter, and any other documents they may require.
Be prepared for interview
After you’ve applied for a few jobs, you should start to get some interview requests. Congrats! This means that the schools are interested in hiring you.
Now it’s time to start preparing for your interviews. The best way to do this is to research the school and find out as much as you can about their program and what they’re looking for in a teacher.
It’s also a good idea to practice your interview skills by doing a mock interview with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more prepared and confident when it comes time for your actual interview.
During the interview, be sure to dress professionally and be polite and friendly. Try to relax and be yourself. And most importantly, make sure to sell yourself and highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills.
All of this is important whether you do the interview face to face or via Skype. Also when doing an interview online, you should make sure you have a professional backdrop and that there is no distractions or anything else that could take away from the interview.
Once you’ve done your interview, all that’s left to do is wait to hear back from the school.
If you don’t get the job, don’t be discouraged. Just keep applying and eventually you’ll find the perfect job for you.
Common ESL Interview Questions and the Best Way to Answer Them
Top Tips for Teaching English in the United Arab Emirates
Be prepared for different teaching styles and work culture
In the United Arab Emirates, there are many different nationalities and cultures, which means that there are also many different teaching styles and work cultures.
Before you start your job, it’s a good idea to do some research on the culture and customs of the UAE so that you can be prepared for what to expect.
It’s also a good idea to find out as much as you can about the school’s teaching style and what they expect from their teachers. This way, you can be sure that you’re meeting their expectations and giving your students the best education possible.
Be aware of the climate
The UAE has a desert climate, which means that it can be very hot and humid, especially during the summer months.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the climate and always have water with you to stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to take breaks often so that you don’t overheat.
In the winter months, it can get cold in the evenings and early mornings, so be sure to pack some warm clothes.
Be aware of the culture
The UAE is a Muslim country and there are certain customs and traditions that you should be aware of. For example, it’s important to dress modestly in public, especially for women.
It’s also important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. For example, you should avoid talking about sensitive topics such as religion or politics.
Be prepared for a different way of life
Life in the UAE is very different from life in most western countries. For example, alcohol is not widely available and there are many restrictions on where it can be consumed.
Also, although the UAE is a very modern and developed country, there are still some areas where you might not have access to the same amenities and facilities that you’re used to.
For example, internet and mobile phone coverage can be patchy in rural areas. And although most schools provide accommodation for their teachers, it’s not always of the same standard as you might be used to.
So, it’s important to be prepared for a different way of life before you start your job in the UAE.
Be patient
Things move at a different pace in the UAE and things often take longer than they do in western countries. For example, it can take weeks or even months to get a work visa.
So, it’s important to be patient and not expect things to happen overnight.
Don’t be afraid to get creative
In the UAE, there is a lot of emphasis on creativity and innovation. So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and come up with new and creative ideas for your lessons.
Your students will appreciate your creativity and it will help you to stand out from other teachers.
Be patient with your students
Many of your students will be learning English for the first time and it can be frustrating for them. So, it’s important to be patient with them and help them to progress at their own pace.
Encourage them to practice outside of class and give them regular feedback on their progress. With time and patience, they will improve.
Be flexible with your schedule
In the UAE, it’s common for schools to have different start and end times for each day. So, you need to be flexible with your schedule and be prepared to teach at different times of the day.
It’s also common for schools to have longer breaks during the day, so you’ll need to be able to fill your time with other activities.
And finally, be aware that the school year in the UAE runs from September to June, so you’ll need to take your holidays during this time.
Take advantage of your time off
Although the working hours in the UAE can be long, you will have a lot of time off. So, it’s important to make the most of your time and use it to explore the country.
There is so much to see and do in the UAE, from desert safaris and camel rides, to shopping in luxury malls and visiting world-famous attractions.
So, make sure you take advantage of your time off and explore everything that the UAE has to offer.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, everything you need to know about getting a TEFL job in the United Arab Emirates. With these insider tips, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job teaching English abroad. From researching potential employers to being aware of common scams, arm yourself with knowledge so you can go into the application process confident and prepared. And above all else, don’t forget to enjoy the experience! Did you find this helpful? Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media for more articles like this one.