What You Need to Know to Teach English in the UAE

With approximately 90 percent of its population consisting of expats, the United Arab Emirates offers a dynamic environment for people seeking new challenges. Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain – the seven emirates that make up the UAE – are rapidly becoming a destination for English teachers from abroad.

Residents and visitors use English commonly alongside the official language, Arabic. Road signs, menus, and public information display both languages and support an easy transition. Learn why you should teach English in the UAE and get ready to start your journey.

If you’re new to teaching, you’ll want to get initial training and qualification with a TEFL certificate. You can explore our online TEFL courses and get started!

Is there a high demand for English teachers in the UAE?

For several years, the United Arab Emirates has shown a consistent demand for English teachers. The country invests heavily in its education sector and drives demand through its national goal to promote English proficiency.

Schools in the UAE feature cutting-edge facilities, classrooms with modern amenities, and invest in technology to revolutionize English language teaching. These advantages create a more efficient and enjoyable teaching experience.

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What qualifications do you need to teach English in the UAE?

To qualify for teaching English in the United Arab Emirates, teachers must hold a TEFL certification. Emirati schools and language academies frequently request this credential, which gives new teachers confidence before their first lesson.

Bridge offers the 120-hour Master TEFL Certificate for teachers who want to earn a TEFL certificate and provides the 150-hour International Diploma in English Language Teaching (IDELTOnline™), which counts toward a TESOL MA degree.

Degrees

To be eligible to teach English in the UAE, teachers must possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. This requirement applies to public and private schools. While a degree in education is helpful, the UAE also accepts degrees from other fields.

Prior Teaching Experience

Many employers prefer candidates with prior teaching experience and a TEFL certificate. Because salaries are high, employers expect applicants to present a strong curriculum with classroom experience. If teachers lack experience, they can target less competitive emirates such as Sharjah. More competitive destinations, like Dubai, seek experienced TEFL professionals.

One of the best ways for teachers to get valuable experience is through a guided practicum, which not only gives teachers the hands-on teaching opportunity but also frequent feedback that allows them to improve while teaching. Bridge offers the 60-hour Practicum in Teaching English Online and the blended 20-hour Guided Teaching Practicum, both accredited and tutor-guided courses.

Visas

To work in the UAE, teachers must obtain a work visa. Employers in the UAE routinely support candidates in securing this visa. The visa process remains straightforward, although it can take some time.

Dubai offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers. This visa lasts one year and shows some fluctuating requirements because it is a new scheme. However, it does not allow you to work for a company within the UAE, and the professional must prove a minimum monthly income of $3,500.

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How much do English teachers earn in the UAE?

The UAE offers attractive tax-free salaries, making the country appealing to teachers. ESL teachers in the UAE often earn higher remuneration than they would receive in their home countries.

When you decide to teach English in the Emirates, it is common for employers to offer generous benefits such as paid return flights, housing for the duration of employment, comprehensive health insurance, and additional allowances. These benefits allow educators to build significant savings while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.

English teachers typically earn monthly salaries ranging from AED 8,000 to AED 25,000 ($2,200 to $6,800), depending on the emirate, experience, and type of institution – language centers on the lower end and international schools on the higher end. These favorable earnings give teachers the opportunity to lead a comfortable life and save money during their time in the UAE. On average, teachers manage to save more than $800 per month after expenses.

Teachers should note that Dubai combines a high tax-free salary with a high cost of living, where a one-bedroom apartment varies from AED 7,000 – 15,000 ($1,900 – $4,100). Abu Dhabi maintains a slightly more conservative atmosphere and offers a lower cost of living, with a 1-bedroom apartment ranging from AED 6,000 – 12,000 ($1,600 – $3,300).

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What types of English teaching jobs are available in the UAE?

The UAE provides a range of teaching opportunities across private international schools, public schools, universities, and language academies. A teacher’s qualifications and experience shape their chances of securing a well-paid role.

Private international schools enroll expatriates and affluent local families. These schools require a TEFL certificate and prior teaching experience. Besides English, they look for professionals who can teach other subjects in English, such as Math and Science.
Public schools in the UAE are in high demand for TEFL teachers. These schools offer competitive salaries, attractive benefits, and paid vacation days.
Foreign language academies serve students and adults preparing for university. These academies create suitable opportunities for TEFL teachers because of the UAE’s diverse population.

Are you considering teaching at a school? Learn about CLIL and get ahead.

What do teachers say about working in the UAE?

Bridge graduate Madelyn Addatu explored the UAE and secured a coveted position teaching English in Dubai. Her experience shows what teachers can expect during the job search:

“When I came to the UAE in 2015, I stayed in Al Ain, a city in the Eastern region, for a couple of weeks. I sent my CV to many schools. I had some interviews and teaching demos. I decided to send my resume to most of the schools in Dubai. At the time, it was a bit difficult for me to get a job since I was new in the country. I kept trying, and fortunately, I received a call from Dubai Modern International School, a semi-government international school, and was offered a job in less than a month.”

Teachers who plan to build a career can optimize their professional goals by teaching abroad. The UAE gives access to a fast-growing market that rewards preparation, professionalism, and adaptability. The country offers competitive salaries, diverse classrooms, and opportunities for teachers who want to grow. When educators understand the requirements, compare the different emirates, and assess their own profiles, they can position themselves to take advantage of the possibilities the UAE offers.

With proper training and the right mindset, teachers can step into the region with confidence and build a rewarding new chapter in their professional lives.

To stand out in the UAE’s competitive market, invest in the training that employers trust. Explore Bridge’s accredited 120-hour Master TEFL Certificate and shine before you apply.