The United Arab Emirates (notably Dubai and Abu Dhabi) has become a hotspot for TEFL thanks to the extremely generous salaries which compete as some of the highest in the world. But how much can you really earn?
In general, TEFL teachers the UAE earn 9,000-20,000 AED (UAE Dirham) per month, or $2,450-5,400. Language academies are a popular source of income, earning 12-20,000 AED ($3,300-5,400), as are public schools, international schools and vocational colleges. Unlicensed private tuition is illegal.
There’s certainly a lot of money to be made. However, with these high salaries, there are higher requirements, and, as you’d expect, greater competition. But for almost all TEFL teachers, there are opportunities if you know how to find them.
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Options and earnings for TEFL teachers in the UAE
Language academies are high-paying, popular employers in the UAE. They’re probably the easiest jobs to get, as private/international schools and public schools require a teaching license.
Vocational colleges are another common option. They involve teaching adults English for business, tourism, and specific industries like oil.
Important note: Private tutoring as a self-employed teacher is illegal in the UAE if you don’t have a permit. In most cases it’s far easier to get employed by a language academy that hosts one-to-one tutoring than trying to get around the law. There are hefty fines if you get caught – 30-50,000 AED ($8,000-14,000)
| Earnings Source | Per Hour ($) | Hours Per Week | Per Month ($) | Annual Estimate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private/International Schools | 20-41 | 25-35 | 2,450-4,900 | 29K-59K |
| Language Academies | 24-39 | 30-40 | 3,300-5,400 | 40K-65K |
| Public Schools | 24-39 | 30-40 | 3,300-5,400 | 40K-65K |
| Vocational Colleges | 21-29 | 30-40 | 3,000-4,100 | 36K-49K |
These are some massive salaries when compared to most other TEFL destinations. In fact, they’re double what you can earn in Egypt.
And on top of that, the majority of employers will organise and pay for your accommodation and flights in and out of the country. This is huge, because rent is expensive in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
As you don’t have to pay for housing, your living costs are much lower – around 2,200-3,700 AED ($600-1,000) per month. That means you’ll have more than half your salary to spend freely, or save for the future.
Oh, and did I mention there’s no tax? That’s right, there’s no personal income tax in the UAE, meaning you keep all of your wages. Be warned, though, if you’re a tax resident of another country (e.g. the USA), you may have to pay tax on your earnings.
So what are the downsides to teaching in the UAE? For a start, the climate. If you like the heat, you might be alright for most of the year, but in summer, it’s sweltering. Additionally, there aren’t many opportunities for integrating into the culture.
While things are improving, there’s still a lot of restrictions on things we take for granted, like women’s rights. Inequality is also a big issue. The mega rich live alongside and in contrast to people, usually migrant workers, in poverty.
School starts early, at around 7.30 a.m., and is done by 1.30 or 2.30 p.m. The academic year starts in late August and runs to the end of June, so it’s just like most western countries.
How much do TEFL teachers make in language academies in the UAE?
Language academies in the UAE are some of the highest paid TEFL jobs in the world. Earnings start at 12,000 AED ($3,300) and rise as high as 20,000 AED ($5,400) for those with hefty qualifications and experience. This works out at around $24-39 per hour.
Speaking of which, you’ll definitely need a TEFL certificate. And a good one, too. A CELTA will make you a lot more competitive, and experience helps, too. The UAE is not the best country for new TEFL teachers. That’s not to say it’s impossible to get employed there, but you’ll need to think of ways to stand out above the rest.
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ESL Base’s list of language academies in the country is a great resource to start your research. Most academies are in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as you’d expect, and there are a few in the third biggest city, Sharjah.
Working hours are quite long, and you may have to be flexible. Expect classes in the morning, afternoon and evening, as the academies cater to the needs of their customers.
How much do TEFL teachers make in private/international schools in the UAE?
The UAE is unlike any other country in that private/international schools offer the lowest salaries compared to other TEFL jobs.
There are lots of private and international schools in the UAE. In fact, there are far more students enrolled in private schools than public schools, and according to the National News, the country has the biggest private school market in the world, larger than places with much greater populations, like China.
Pay is 9,000-18,000 AED ($2,450-4,900) per month. Higher salaries are for those with lots of experience. And to even get a look in, you’ll need a teaching license and a couple of years of experience.
How much do TEFL teachers make in public schools in the UAE?
The public school system in the UAE is rapidly changing to keep up with the demands of the country’s exploding wealth. While private schools still dominate, the public sector is improving.
As a result, there are opportunities for foreign teachers to get high-paying jobs, earning salaries of 12,000-20,000 AED ($3,300-5,400) per month.
To get these positions, you will need a teaching license and a few years of experience.
How much do TEFL teachers make in vocational colleges in the UAE?
Vocational colleges are a big deal in the UAE. They serve professionals looking to improve their prospects in business and tourism, so there’s plenty of demand.
Pay is very good. Expect 11,000-15,000 AED per month ($3,000-4,100) for a 30-40 hour week.
A teaching license isn’t required, but it may help beat the competition. I’d say a standard 120-hour TEFL certificate won’t cut the mustard, unless you’ve got a lot of experience or other assets on your CV. Consider getting a CELTA.
Conclusion
For TEFL earnings, the UAE is right up there at the top of the world rankings, even beating out wealthy neighbours like Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
If you’re starting out in TEFL, getting employed might be tricky. But once you’ve got a year or two under your belt and beefed up your qualifications, it’s a place where you can earn masses of spending money or put away thousands for the future.
However, if you’re getting into TEFL for an authentic, cultural experience, it might not be the place for you. Sure, the money is great. But if you want to engage with the locals, learn the language, and delve into a community, you might be disappointed.
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?
