How to get Teaching job in the United Arab Emirates

It is not easy for new teachers to get a job in the UAE and its associated states, but some steps can pave the way.

1. Come to Dubai on a visit visa

A visit visa enables you to directly visit the schools where you are seeking employment. In this way, you form a relationship with the employees of these institutions and this is also a proof of your seriousness. Do your homework before traveling to the UAE. You should have the names, addresses, phone numbers, emails, etc. of all Pakistani schools in the UAE so that you don’t waste time searching for schools during your visit.

2. Visit UAE at the right time.

Recruitment for schools in the UAE is mostly in January and September. Teachers coming from Pakistan to UAE usually take vacations but all institutions are closed during this time. So choose the right time to visit UAE.

3. Be prepared for low pay

Teachers teaching in private schools in Pakistan believe based on their experience that they will be offered huge salary packages in the UAE. But the experience in the UAE only counts for schools in the Gulf countries. So initially they will offer you a very low salary for which you have to be mentally prepared. Most schools offer a salary between AED 2000 and AED 3000.

4. Apply to foreign schools as well.

Some Indian schools in UAE also offer jobs to Pakistanis as Urdu is taught as a second language in some schools. However, they mostly try to recruit their own countrymen. In addition, teaching experience in the UAE and English language proficiency certificate IELTS are mandatory for UK and US schools.

5. Use LinkedIn.

LinkedIn is a professional social media app where you will find profiles of principals and staff from most schools in the UAE. Connecting with the community and keeping yourself updated is very helpful.

6. Avoid duplicity.

If you have a good job in Pakistan, don’t try to leave it and settle in UAE. You may not like the new job and you may be attracted to the previous one. The best time to settle in UAE is right after completing your studies. So that even if some years are wasted, eventually a good job becomes your destiny.

7. Sponsored Visa

If you have a close relative in the UAE and can sponsor you, your job prospects become brighter. If you have a residency visa, it will be easier for schools to offer you a job.

8. CV and interview preparation

CV is your first impression which is a reflection of your personality. Likewise, even with an unprepared interview, it may be difficult for you to land a job. Also prepare a presentation so the school can test you. Focus on mastery of spoken English.

9. Try your luck in other fields.

There are countless examples in Dubai where some people came to teach but are earning well in many fields including insurance, reception, graphic designer, security. Don’t limit yourself and keep an eye out for different types of jobs.

10. Do not fall into the hands of agents.

Agents are in every business. Similarly, you will find agents who will show you a green garden and get you a visa and you will fail by trusting them and return without a job. There is only one path to success that goes through the above steps.