Nestled in the north of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait often goes under the radar in the conversation about best TEFL destinations. However, like nearby Qatar and Bahrain, TEFL teachers can make a lot of money there. How much? That’s what you’ll learn in this article.
In general, TEFL teachers in Kuwait earn 600-1,200 Kuwaiti Dinars ($2,000-4,000) per month. The main employers are international schools, which demand experience and qualifications but often cover accommodation and travel expenses. Private classes earn 6-12 KWD ($20-40) per hour.
If you’re a new or inexperienced TEFL teacher, Kuwait may not be the best place for you. While you might find get lucky with a less demanding language academy, the vast majority of employers require at least 2 years of experience, and international schools typically expect you to have a full teaching license.
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Options and earnings for TEFL teachers in Kuwait
Most TEFL positions are at international schools ranging from kindergarten to high school, as well as universities. Language academies exist in the country, but are few and far between.
Private tutoring is a potential option to supplement your income.
| Earnings Source | Per Hour ($) | Hours Per Week | Per Month ($) | Annual Estimate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Schools | 19-29 | 30-40 | 2,600-4,000 | 31K-48K |
| Language Academies | 20-30 | 20-30 | 2,000-3,000 | 24K-36K |
| Private Classes | 20-40 | 20 | 1,600-3,200 | 19K-38K |
These are good salaries. You’d expect that to be the case, given the country is extremely wealthy and education is a priority. But the positives don’t stop there.
Just like in most other Arabic countries in the region, employers often pay for your accommodation and travel expenses. That means a typical monthly living expense of 500 KWD ($1,500) is reduced to just 200 KWD ($650). It’s a big deal.
Even living with relative comfort and luxury, you can save over $1,000 a month. And guess what? You don’t have to pay any tax on your income!
So, financially, Kuwait is a fantastic place to work, if you have the required qualifications. But if it’s so wonderful, why doesn’t everyone go there?
The thing is, most TEFL teachers aren’t in it for the money. Colombia and Thailand are two of the most popular destinations, but pay much worse than Kuwait. People go there for the culture and lifestyle.
While it would be wrong to say Kuwait has no cultural interest, they do observe strict religious practices (no alcohol, separation of genders, and homosexuality is illegal). It’s not exactly party central.
The climate isn’t too favourable either. It can get extremely hot in the summer (averaging over 45 degrees Celsius / 113 Fahrenheit), and much of the country is empty desert. As a result, school starts at 7.30 a.m. and finishes between 1 and 3 p.m. The school year runs from September to June.
How much do TEFL teachers make in language academies in Kuwait?
Language academies in Kuwait pay well. Salaries range from 600 to 900 KWD ($2,000-3,000) per month, working out at an hourly wage of 6-9 KWD ($20-30).
Unfortunately, this type of institution isn’t very common in the country. That means they’re pretty competitive and a standard 120-hour TEFL certificate without much experience to your name won’t be enough in many cases. Consider a Level 5 TEFL or CELTA to increase your chances.
If you’re looking for great value TEFL certificates, I recommend International TEFL and TESOL Training. Click the link for 15% off all courses (I receive compensation, so you’re supporting me, too). Not convinced? Read why I’d choose ITTT over other TEFL course providers.
City Vago has a good list of some language academies you can find in Kuwait, with the vast majority being in the capital, Kuwait City. Click this link to go straight to their list.
You can find International House and the British Council in Kuwait, along with several local companies.
How much do TEFL teachers make in international schools in Kuwait?
International schools are probably the most common option for TEFL teachers looking to work in Kuwait.
Monthly salaries range from 800 to 1,200 KWD ($2,600-4,000). For a full 30-40-hour week, this earns you an hourly wage of 6-9 KWD ($19-29) and you can usually expect to have rent and travel paid for you.
It isn’t easy to get these jobs, though. Experience of at least 2 years is a must, and if you don’t have a teaching license (the kind of thing you need to work as a public school teacher in your home country), you’ll find it difficult to get hired. Not impossible, but you’re looking at much less reputable schools.
How much do TEFL teachers make from private classes in Kuwait?
Private TEFL tutors in Kuwait can earn 6-12 KWD ($20-40) per hour. If you’re experienced and qualified, you can charge as much as 15 or even 18 KWD ($50 or 60).
This is a great way to supplement your income if you’re working in a language academy and don’t have a full-time schedule. Take 3 private classes a week at $30 an hour, and you’ll earn an extra $360 per month.
It’s not easy to go full time as a self-employed freelancer. As is the case in almost every country around the world, to get a work permit to stay in the country, you need employment by a company there.
For the full guide on becoming an English tutor, read my article: How to Get Started as an EFL/ESL Private Tutor.
Conclusion
Kuwait offers riches for experienced school teachers. In fact, if you’re smart with your money and get a higher-paid job, you can save as much as $25,000 per year.
But unless you have an interest in the archaeological sites or Arabic culture, there may not be enough to draw you to Kuwait. And if your TEFL CV is still at its early stages, you’ll struggle to get hired.
Why not head over to my resource: How Much Do TEFL & TESL Teachers Make? Countries compared to see what countries around the world can offer?
