Introduction
Are you considering a teaching career in the UAE? It’s an exciting opportunity with great earning potential, but your experience and qualifications can play a significant role in determining your salary. In this blog post, we’ll explore how different factors, such as your degree, certifications, location, and more, can affect your earning potential as a teacher in the UAE. Let’s get started!
Bachelor’s Degree
When it comes to qualifications, a bachelor’s degree is one of the minimum requirements for teachers in the UAE. If you’re aiming to teach in a private/international school, it’s important to have a degree that matches the subject you’ll be teaching. For example a Bachelors in Education or Bachelors of Arts in English to qualify to teach English. Recent education graduates with the right degree can expect a starting salary of no less than 9,000 AED (tax free), plus provided housing.
TEFL/TESOL Certification or 1-year Teaching Experience
While a TEFL/TESOL certification is not typically required in the UAE, it can be beneficial, especially if you don’t have experience teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) students. Taking a quality TEFL course will equip you with strategies to better connect with your learners. When it comes to experience, requirements vary across different Emirates. Some require 2 years of post-graduate experience, others require 1 year, and there are even opportunities for recent graduates.
Teaching License and/or Degree in Education
If you are licensed to teach in your own country, you’re in luck! Examples include State teaching license (US), QTS (UK) and SACE (South Africa). The UAE values educators with teaching licenses, and this opens up a world of opportunities for you. Salaries for licensed teachers typically start at 10,000 AED and can go up to an impressive 21,000 AED per month or more!
Post-graduate Degree
Do you have an M.Ed or a PGCE? Having a post-graduate degree can give you a significant advantage in the UAE job market. Not only can it lead to higher pay, but it also provides more opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Please be aware though a Post-graduate degree does not negate the need for a Bachelors degree in the subject being taught.
Location
Teaching opportunities are available throughout the UAE, with a high demand for high-quality international education in every Emirate. While many teachers are drawn to the modern metropolises of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s important to consider the higher cost of living in those cities. If saving money and avoiding traffic are top priorities for you, consider exploring lesser-known cities like Ras Al Khaimah or Al Ain. Although the cost of living is lower, the pay remains competitive. Plus, with the UAE being roughly the size of the state of Maine, you can reach almost any destination within a 2-hour drive!
Working Hours
In the UAE, schools generally follow an early start and finish to avoid the scorching heat. As a teacher, you can expect to begin your day around 7 am and finish by 2-3 pm, enjoying weekends off. This schedule allows you to make the most of your afternoons and have a healthy work-life balance.
Benefits
One of the perks of being a teacher in the UAE is the attractive benefit packages. Typically, housing is either provided or an allowance is given, annual flights are covered, medical insurance is provided, and you may receive a generous end-of-contract bonus. Furthermore, if you have children, you may enjoy discounted tuition fees at your school of employment. And of course just like other coutnries across the Middle East, salaries are tax free!
Conclusion
Your experience and qualifications play a critical role in determining your earning potential as a teacher in the UAE. By obtaining the necessary qualifications, such as a realted bachelors degree, teaching license, or post-graduate qualification, you can open the door to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, considering factors like location and benefits can further enhance your overall experience. With Teaching Nomad, you can take control of your teaching career and job search. Start your journey today and embrace the possibilities that await you in the UAE!
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