FAQS TEACHING IN UAE

Educators from around the globe are drawn to teaching in the UAE. This is because of its competitive salaries. It also offers a diverse cultural environment and focuses on high-quality education. Here’s a breakdown of commonly asked questions:

1. What are the general requirements for teaching in the UAE?

• Educational Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree is a basic requirement. For subject teachers, the degree should be relevant to the subject they will teach (e.g., a math teacher needs a degree in mathematics). For class teachers, especially in primary or kindergarten, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Education is usually required. Alternatively, a postgraduate certificate or diploma in education, like a PGCE, is often necessary.

• Teaching Certification/License: All teachers need a valid teaching license, often obtained through the UAE’s Teacher Licensing System (TLS). This usually involves passing exams on subject knowledge and pedagogy.

• Experience: Most international schools prefer candidates with 2-5 years of full-time teaching experience, particularly with British, American, or IB curricula. Some positions, especially in private schools, might consider recent graduates with the right degree.
• Language Proficiency: For those teaching in English, an IELTS score of at least 6.0 (Academic) or 6.5 (General) is often required. For English language teachers, a score of 7.0 or 7.5 is common, along with a TESOL or TEFL certification (like CELTA or DELTA).
• Background Checks & Medical Fitness: You’ll need police clearance certificates from your home country. You also need certificates from any other countries you’ve resided in for the past five years. Additionally, a UAE police clearance certificate is required. A medical fitness report from the UAE is also mandatory.

• Document Attestation: Your degrees and certificates will need to be attested in your home country and by the UAE Embassy.

• Cultural Adaptability: Schools value teachers who are culturally sensitive. They can adapt to a diverse environment. These teachers understand and respect local customs and values.

2. What types of schools and curricula are common in the UAE?

The UAE has a diverse educational landscape:

• International Schools: These are very popular and often follow British, American, IB (International Baccalaureate), or Indian CBSE curricula. They primarily cater to expat children.

• Public Schools: These mostly serve Emirati nationals. They follow a government-run curriculum. There is an increasing focus on English and STEM subjects.

• Private Schools: A mix of local and expat students, these can follow various international curricula.

• Language Schools: Primarily for teaching English to children and adults.

3. What is the salary expectation for teachers in the UAE?

Salaries are generally tax-free and competitive, with variations based on school type, experience, qualifications, and subject area.

• International Schools: Can range from AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 per month (approximately $4,080 – $6,810 USD).
• Public Schools: Often AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 per month ($3,270 – $5,450 USD).
• Private Schools: Can be around AED 9,000 to AED 15,000 per month ($2,450 – $4,080 USD).
• Language Schools: Typically AED 8,000 to AED 12,000 per month ($2,180 – $3,270 USD).
• University Lecturers: Can earn higher, from AED 18,000 to AED 30,000 per month ($4,900 – $8,170 USD).
• Private Tutoring: An excellent way to supplement income, rates can be AED 150-300 per hour ($40-$80 USD).

Factors influencing salary:

• Years of experience
• Qualifications (e.g., a Master’s degree, specific teaching certifications)
• School’s prestige
• Subject demand (STEM subjects and IB programs often command higher salaries)

4. What benefits can teachers expect?

One of the major attractions of teaching in the UAE is the comprehensive benefits package often provided:

• Tax-Free Salary: Your entire salary is take-home pay.

• Housing/Housing Allowance: Many schools provide accommodation or a generous monthly housing stipend.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage is standard, often including dental and sometimes dependents.

• Annual Flights Home: Often paid for by the school, especially for international hires.
• End-of-Contract Bonuses: A gratuity or lump-sum bonus is common upon completion of a contract.

• Tuition Discounts: For teachers with children, some schools offer discounts on tuition fees.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for workshops, seminars, and higher education.

• Visa Assistance: Employers typically sponsor and assist with the employment visa process.

5. What is the lifestyle like for teachers in the UAE?

• High Standard of Living: The UAE offers a modern lifestyle with world-class facilities, shopping, dining, and infrastructure.

• Expat Community: A large and vibrant expat community makes it easy to connect with people from various backgrounds.

• Safety: The UAE has a very low crime rate, making it a safe place to live and work.

• Travel Hub: Its strategic location provides easy access for travel to other countries in Asia, Europe, and Africa.

• Cultural Immersion: While modern, the UAE is a conservative Muslim country. Teachers are encouraged to be culturally sensitive, learn about local customs, and respect traditions.

• Climate: Summers are extremely hot, but most indoor spaces are air-conditioned.
• Work-Life Balance: Many schools emphasize a good work-life balance, allowing time for leisure and travel.

• Cost of Living: While salaries are good, the cost of living can be high. This is especially true for accommodation in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Costs can be more manageable if subsidized by the school. Groceries and petrol are generally reasonably priced.

6. What are the challenges of teaching in the UAE?

• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture, especially for those from vastly different social norms, can be a challenge.

• High Expectations: Parents and school administrations often have high expectations.

• Large Class Sizes: In some public schools, class sizes can be larger.
• Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken, some students may have limited English proficiency. This is especially true in public schools. These students require differentiated instruction.
• Bureaucracy: The process of document attestation and licensing can be time-consuming.

7. How can I stand out when applying for teaching jobs in the UAE?

• Tailor your CV: Highlight international teaching experience, relevant curricula (British, American, IB), classroom management skills, and proficiency with educational technology.

• Research Schools: Understand the specific curriculum and values of the schools you’re applying to.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be prepared to discuss how you would incorporate UAE culture and values into your lessons. Explain how you would handle a diverse student population.
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions, focusing on your teaching philosophy, classroom management strategies, and adaptability.

• Professional Development: Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with teaching trends.

Teaching in the UAE can offer excellent career opportunities. It can also be a unique cultural adventure. This experience can be highly rewarding both professionally and personally.