Can I teach in Dubai with a TESOL?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as a global hub for commerce, finance, and tourism, drawing on its abundant oil resources, major port facilities, and flourishing tourism sector. With cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering luxury shopping, first-rate dining, and some of the world's most breathtaking architecture, the Emirates have emerged as a favored spot for tourists and investors alike. This allure, coupled with some of the highest salaries and extra benefits globally, renders the UAE a prime destination for teaching English overseas.
Is TESOL enough to teach in Dubai?
Typically, possessing just a TESOL certificate does not assure a teaching position in Dubai or anywhere else in the UAE. If you aspire to teach English in Dubai armed with a TESOL qualification, you should also fulfill other criteria, such as having a degree and relevant work experience.
Also read: What are the best countries to teach ESL in the Middle East?
Can you teach English in the UAE if you don't have a degree?
This is quite unlikely. English educators are expected to hold a bachelor's degree along with their TESOL certification. In fact, numerous schools in the UAE demand that teachers possess an education degree or even a master's degree (in any subject).
Moreover, many employers tend to favor candidates with previous teaching experience and/or a teaching license from countries like the United States or the United Kingdom.
That being said, this doesn't imply that only candidates with a postgraduate degree and teaching experience should apply for jobs in the UAE. English tutors holding just an undergraduate degree may find opportunities in lesser-known cities such as Sharjah and Al Ain.
Do I have to be a native English speaker to teach English in Dubai?
Most schools expect their job applicants to be native English speakers from either the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, or New Zealand. However, qualified individuals holding a postgraduate degree and/or teaching experience who aren't native English speakers or are from countries other than those mentioned, may still secure employment in the UAE.
Also read: How much can I earn teaching English in the United Arab Emirates?
