Saudi Arabia has fast become one of the highest-paying TEFL destinations in the world. The oil-rich kingdom’s ultra-conservative culture may be off-putting for some, but if you can get past that, there’s money to be made. But exactly how much can you earn?
Generally, TEFL teachers in Saudi Arabia earn SAR 9.75K-15K ($2,600-4,000) per month. Language schools pay well – SAR 12K-15K ($3,200-4,000) – while international school salaries start at SAR 9.75K ($2,600) and can exceed SAR 15K ($4,000). Private classes earn SAR 80-150 ($21-40) per hour.
When you compare these salaries to almost any other country, they’re mouth-wateringly high. And that’s not to mention the other financial benefits. If Saudi Arabia appeals to you, keep reading to find out how much you can earn and what qualifications you need.
Searching for the perfect TEFL destination with the best earnings? Compare countries around the world with my free resource: How Much Do TEFL & TESL Teachers Make? Countries compared.
Options and earnings for TEFL teachers in Saudi Arabia
The primary source of income for most TEFL teachers in Saudi Arabia will be language academies. They pay extremely well, often better than international schools.
Some teachers may also give private classes to supplement their income.
| Earnings Source | Per Hour ($) | Hours Per Week | Per Month ($) | Annual Estimate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Schools | 19-29 | 30-40 | 2,600-4,000 | 31K-48K |
| Language Academies | 23-29 | 30-40 | 3,200-4,000 | 38K-48K |
| Private Classes | 21-40 | 20 | 1,700-3,200 | 20K-38K |
Even with the basic salary, Saudi Arabia out-competes the majority of countries. But that’s not all it has to offer.
Many language academies and international schools also pay for your accommodation and flights, as well as giving you a contract completion bonus.
So, on top of earning a great wage, your living costs are much lower. Saudi Arabia isn’t a hugely expensive country to live in, but it isn’t cheap either. According to Numbeo, living costs are around $700-800 per month, not including rent (which is quite expensive).
When you do the maths, even with a lower-end salary, you’ll still make a healthy profit of nearly $2,000 per month.
And if you think your income will get swallowed up by tax, no worries. If you’re a resident of the country, there is no income tax. You keep everything you earn.
Working visas for employees are relatively smooth-sailing, since your company should help you out.
Unfortunately, those hoping to go freelance are out of luck. Unless you’re a Saudi national, you can’t legally be self-employed.
The Saudi school year runs from the end of August to the start of June and school days are Sunday to Thursday, often beginning as early as 7 am, and finishing at 3.30 pm.
One aspect of schools in Saudi Arabia which might affect your decision is the fact they’re separated by gender. If you’re male, you’ll teach boys, and women will only teach girls.
How much do TEFL teachers make in language academies in Saudi Arabia?
Language academies in Saudi Arabia pay SAR 12K to 15K ($3,200 to $4,000) depending on experience and location.
You’ll have to work hard to earn it, though. It’s typical to have 25-30 contact hours, so when you take into account planning and preparation time, you’ll get a salary of $23-39 per hour. That’s extremely high.
The cities of Jeddah and Riyadh are home to the most language academies, with brands like British Council and Wall Street English as well as smaller, independent companies. Check out ESL Base’s list to see them all.
Thanks to the competitive salaries, competition is quite high. If you’re starting your TEFL journey, you may struggle to get a job as more experienced teachers take the positions.
And you’ll definitely need a TEFL certificate, with a minimum of 120 hours. A Level 5 TEFL or CELTA will give you a competitive advantage.
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.
How much do TEFL teachers make from international schools in Saudi Arabia?
In most countries, international school teachers earn more than language academies. In Saudi Arabia, this isn’t always true.
Salaries start at around SAR 9.75K ($2,600) which is very generous. But with more experience, you can earn SAR 15K ($4,000) or more.
Working hours are what you’d expect in a private or international school – long days and high expectations. A teaching license will be required by most schools.
How much do TEFL teachers make from private classes in Saudi Arabia?
As mentioned earlier, unless you’re a citizen of Saudi Arabia, you can’t work as a freelancer, so going full time with private classes is out of the question.
However, if you want to make more money on the side, you can pick up a few private students.
Hourly rates range between SAR 80 and 150 ($21-40). If you do three hours a week at the lowest price, you’ll earn SAR 960 ($252) per month.
Having said that, if you’re already doing 35-40 hours in a language academy earning over $3,000 a month, you won’t really need the extra cash.
Conclusion
Salaries for TEFL teachers in Saudi Arabia are among the best in the world.
But despite the money, it might not be for you. If you’re hoping to enjoy a free, relaxed culture where you can go for drinks with friends and wear what you want, this is not the place.
If you’re in it to pay off debts or save for the future, it could be worth your while.
If the Middle East appeals to you, but Saudi Arabia seems a little too strict, check out how much you could earn in Bahrain and Qatar.
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?
