Teaching English in United Arab Emirates

Teaching English in United Arab Emirates — Quick Facts Updated August 2026
How much you can save per year US$0–60,000 + US$5,000–15,000 in private tutoring
Degree requirement Bachelor's degree Often plus 1–2 years of experience
Certification 120-hour TESOL/TEFL Expected by most employers
Peak hiring seasons August - September Packages typically include housing and flights
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates

Map of United Arab Emirates

See other ESL teaching opportunities in
Middle East
How Much Can I Earn?
Monthly Salary:
6,600 - 21,000 AED
2,400 - 5,600 USD
Private Tutoring per Hour:
50 - 300 AED
9 - 53 USD
Income Tax Rate:
0%
Ability to Save per Year:
0 - 60,000 USD

What Are My Benefits?
Accommodations:
Usually included or allowance given
Airfare:
Fully paid for or reimbursed
Health Care:
Included
Holidays:
Usually paid

What Will Teaching Be Like?
Teaching Hours:
20 - 35
Typical Contract Length:
Minimum one year
Typical Start Date:
August - September
Application Timeline:
2 - 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:
Degree in education and provincial teaching credentials strongly preferred

Teaching in United Arab Emirates — Common Questions

How much can I earn teaching English in United Arab Emirates?

ESL teachers in United Arab Emirates typically earn US$2,400–5,600 per month (6,600 - 21,000 AED) and can save US$0–60,000 per year. Private tutoring US$9–53/hour adds to that. Figures come from Oxford Seminars' United Arab Emirates at-a-glance data, updated with current exchange rates.

Do I need a degree to teach English in United Arab Emirates?

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 United Arab Emirates?

A certificate is expected by most employers in United Arab Emirates, 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 United Arab Emirates?

Typical start dates in United Arab Emirates are: August - September. Applications typically run 2 - 6 months ahead of your start date. Packages typically include housing and flights.