How much can I earn teaching English in the United Arab Emirates?
In the United Arab Emirates, English language teachers, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, can expect high demand and competitive salaries due to the large expatriate population. However, the market is also competitive, especially for those new to teaching or with limited experience. Qualified teachers in the UAE typically earn between $3,000 and $5,500 per month, depending on experience and qualifications. Note that exact earnings can vary based on the type of institution, location within the UAE, and individual qualifications and experience.
Table of Contents
What are TESOL salaries in the United Arab Emirates?
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in the UAE?
Who else employs English language teachers in the UAE?
What is the cost of living for English teachers in the UAE?
What are TESOL salaries in the United Arab Emirates?
TESOL salaries in the United Arab Emirates typically range from 9,000 AED ($2,500 US) to 20,000 AED ($5,500 US) per month. The exact salary depends on factors such as the employer, the teacher's qualifications, and their previous classroom experience. In addition to competitive salaries, TESOL teachers in the UAE often receive comprehensive benefits packages. These benefits can include paid airfares, furnished accommodation, health insurance, and a contract completion bonus. Given that salaries are tax-free and the cost of living can be managed, teachers in the UAE usually have the opportunity to save a significant portion of their income.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in the UAE?
The main employers of English language teachers in the United Arab Emirates are language schools and vocational colleges. To qualify for positions in these institutions, candidates generally need a bachelor's degree and some teaching experience. In language schools, salaries typically range from $2,500 to $4,000 per month, while vocational colleges offer salaries between $3,000 and $4,000. Working hours vary by employer: private language schools often require evening and weekend work, whereas vocational colleges usually operate from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sunday to Thursday.
Who else employs English language teachers in the UAE?
Apart from language schools and vocational colleges, fully qualified teachers with a teaching license from their home country can find employment in international and government-run public schools in the UAE. The UAE hosts several international schools following foreign curriculums like British or Australian, offering salaries ranging from $2,700 to $3,800 per month. The working hours in these schools are typically from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sunday to Thursday. In the public school system, while the working hours are similar, salaries are usually higher, ranging from $3,500 to $5,500 per month.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in the UAE?
The cost of living in the UAE is relatively high as it is one of the richest countries in the Middle East region. The cost of housing can be particularly high in popular areas, with average rents ranging from $1,700 to $3,000 per month for a two bedroom apartment. However, the majority of teaching jobs should include free housing or a housing stipend, so this should not be a major issue for most teachers. Due to a combination of high incomes and extra benefits, ESL teachers can expect to live a very comfortable lifestyle and still have plenty of cash left over at the end of the month.
