Teaching English in Qatar

Teaching English in Qatar — Quick Facts Updated April 2026
How much you can save per year US$500–33,000 + US$5,000–15,000 in private tutoring
Degree requirement Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree preferred Often plus 1–2 years of experience
Certification 120-hour TESOL/TEFL Expected by most employers
Peak hiring seasons September/October, or year round Packages typically include housing and flights
Qatar
Qatar
Qatar
Qatar

Map of Qatar

See other ESL teaching opportunities in
Middle East
How Much Can I Earn?
Monthly Salary:
5,800 - 15,000 QAR
1,450 - 3,750 USD
Private Tutoring per Hour:
150 - 220 QAR
38 - 55 USD
Income Tax Rate:
0%
Ability to Save per Year:
500 - 33,000 USD

What Are My Benefits?
Accommodations:
Usually included or allowance given
Airfare:
Reimbursement (full or partial) usually given
Health Care:
Included
Holidays:
Usually paid

What Will Teaching Be Like?
Teaching Hours:
20 - 30
Typical Contract Length:
Minimum one year
Typical Start Date:
September/October, or year round
Application Timeline:
1 - 6 months


What Do I Need?
Work Visa:
Employer sponsors
Education Requirements:
Teaching Experience,
Bachelor's Degree,
Master's Degree preferred,
Oxford Seminars TESOL/TESL/TEFL Certificate
Additional Notes:
Bachelor's Degree with state teaching credentials or Master's Degree and 2-3 years of previous ESL teaching experience preferred

Teaching in Qatar — Common Questions

How much can I earn teaching English in Qatar?

ESL teachers in Qatar typically earn US$1,450–3,750 per month (5,800 - 15,000 QAR) and can save US$500–33,000 per year. Private tutoring US$38–55/hour adds to that. Figures come from Oxford Seminars' Qatar at-a-glance data, updated with current exchange rates.

Do I need a degree to teach English in Qatar?

Yes. Gulf-state employers require a bachelor's degree - frequently in a related field - and often prefer one to two years of teaching experience. Compensation packages (housing, flights, tax-free salary) reflect the higher bar.

Do I need a TESOL or TEFL certificate to teach in Qatar?

A certificate is expected by most employers in Qatar, and a 120-hour TESOL/TESL/TEFL certification measurably improves both starting salary and placement odds. Oxford Seminars graduates also get lifetime access to the Job Placement Service.

When should I apply for teaching jobs in Qatar?

Typical start dates in Qatar are: September/October, or year round. Applications typically run 1 - 6 months ahead of your start date. Packages typically include housing and flights.