Teach English in Bahrain: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Bahrain

Teaching English in Bahrain offers an opportunity to work in one of the most progressive and culturally diverse countries in the Gulf region. Known for its friendly people and relatively liberal social climate, Bahrain serves as a financial hub with a dynamic mix of modernity and tradition. This environment is increasingly attractive to teachers looking for a balanced lifestyle in the Middle East.

Bahrain's education system is robust, with a strong emphasis on English due to its role as a critical skill in the global economy. There is a substantial demand for English teachers in both public and private sectors, including international schools, language centers, and corporate training programs. Teachers in Bahrain enjoy working in a multicultural setting that values education and offers numerous professional opportunities for growth.

The cost of living in Bahrain is generally lower than in neighboring Gulf countries, making it a more accessible option for many expatriates. Teaching packages often include competitive salaries, housing allowances, health insurance, and airfare, which can make living in Bahrain both comfortable and financially rewarding.

Why Teach English in Bahrain?

Bahrain is an attractive destination for teaching English for several reasons, highlighting its educational commitment and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Here are some compelling reasons why Bahrain could be the perfect place for your teaching career:

Cultural Openness: Bahrain is known for its relatively liberal and open society compared to other Gulf states. This openness is reflected in its diverse population and cultural practices, providing a welcoming environment for expatriates.
Demand for English Education: As Bahrain continues to position itself as a financial and educational hub in the Gulf, the demand for English education remains high. This demand ensures stable teaching opportunities and the potential for career advancement.
Competitive Employment Benefits: Similar to other Gulf countries, teaching jobs in Bahrain often come with attractive benefits packages that include tax-free salaries, housing, health insurance, and travel expenses. These benefits allow teachers to enjoy a high standard of living and save a considerable portion of their income.
Professional Development: Bahrain's educational institutions often invest in continuous professional development, offering workshops, training sessions, and conferences that help teachers stay current with educational trends and methodologies.
Quality of Life: Bahrain offers a good quality of life with excellent healthcare, entertainment options, and a friendly atmosphere. The country's small size makes it easy to explore, and its historical sites, modern shopping malls, and vibrant dining scene add to its appeal.
Strategic Location: Located in the heart of the Persian Gulf, Bahrain offers easy access to other parts of the Middle East as well as direct flights to many international destinations, making it ideal for teachers who enjoy traveling.

Teaching English in Bahrain not only allows educators to experience a unique blend of traditional Gulf culture and modernity but also provides opportunities for substantial professional growth and personal exploration. This combination makes Bahrain a compelling and rewarding destination for teachers from around the world.

What are the requirements to teach English in Bahrain?

The requirements to teach English in Bahrain may vary depending on the school or institute where you are applying, but generally, the following requirements apply:

A bachelor's degree: Most schools in Bahrain require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as education, linguistics, or English.
A teaching certification: A teaching certification, such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate, is often required to teach English in Bahrain. These certifications demonstrate that you have the necessary training and skills to teach English as a foreign language.
English proficiency: It is important for English teachers in Bahrain to have a high level of English proficiency, as they will be teaching students whose first language is not English.
Experience: Some schools may prefer candidates with previous teaching experience, although this is not always a requirement.

In addition to the above requirements, some schools may also require a background check and/or a medical examination. It is a good idea to check with the specific school or institute where you are applying to confirm their specific requirements.

Do you need to speak Arabic to teach English in Bahrain?

It is not a requirement to speak Arabic in order to teach English in Bahrain. Most schools in Bahrain are looking for native English speakers or non-native speakers with a high level of English proficiency.

However, knowing some basic Arabic can be helpful in navigating daily life in Bahrain, as Arabic is the official language of the country. It can also be a useful skill to have when communicating with non-English speaking students and their families.

If you are interested in learning Arabic while teaching English in Bahrain, there are many language schools and institutes that offer Arabic language classes for foreigners. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and improve your communication skills with the people you interact with on a daily basis.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Bahrain?

The salary that you can earn as an English teacher in Bahrain will depend on several factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the school or institute where you are teaching. Generally, English teachers in Bahrain can expect to earn a good salary, often with benefits such as housing and airfare included.

According to data from Indeed, the average salary for an English teacher in Bahrain is around BHD 600-700 (Bahraini Dinars) per month, which is equivalent to approximately $1600-1850 USD. This amount can vary widely depending on the specific job and the benefits offered.

It is a good idea to research the salary and benefits offered by different schools and institutes before accepting a teaching position in Bahrain, to ensure that you are being fairly compensated for your work.

What is the cost of living in Bahrain?

The cost of living in Bahrain varies depending on a number of factors, such as your lifestyle, location, and the type of accommodation you choose. In general, the cost of living in Bahrain is relatively high compared to other countries in the region, although it is still lower than in many Western countries.

Here are some estimates for the cost of living in Bahrain:

Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from BHD 300-700 ($800-$1800) per month, depending on the location and quality of the apartment. Outside the city center, rents may be slightly lower.
Food: The cost of food in Bahrain is relatively high, especially for imported items. However, local produce is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost around BHD 10-15 ($26-$40), while a grocery bill for a week's worth of food for one person may be around BHD 30-50 ($80-$130).
Transportation: Public transportation in Bahrain is relatively cheap and efficient, with fares starting at around BHD 0.1 ($0.3) for a bus ride. Taxis are also reasonably priced, with a ride within the city costing around BHD 5-10 ($13-$26).
Entertainment: The cost of entertainment in Bahrain depends on the activity. For example, a movie ticket may cost around BHD 7-8 ($18-$21), while a ticket to a concert or sporting event may cost more.

Overall, the cost of living in Bahrain is higher than in some other countries in the region, but it is still possible to live comfortably on a teacher's salary. It is a good idea to budget carefully and research the cost of living in the specific area where you will be living before accepting a teaching position in Bahrain.

The best places to teach English in Bahrain

Bahrain is a small island country located in the Persian Gulf and is known for its modern infrastructure and diverse population. Here are some of the best places to consider teaching English in Bahrain:

Manama: Manama is the capital and largest city in Bahrain, and it is home to a number of international schools and language centers that may be looking for English teachers.
Muharraq: Muharraq is a city located just east of Manama and is known for its traditional architecture and cultural sites. It is home to a number of private schools and language centers that may be looking for English teachers.
Riffa: Riffa is a city located in the south of Bahrain and is known for its large expat community. It is home to a number of private schools and language centers that may be looking for English teachers.
Other cities and towns: There may also be opportunities to teach English in other cities and towns in Bahrain, such as Isa Town, Sitra, and Hamad Town.

It is worth noting that the demand for English teachers in Bahrain may vary depending on the location and the specific school or institution you are applying to. It is always a good idea to research and compare different job opportunities before accepting a position to ensure that you are getting a fair salary and working conditions.

Living in Bahrain

Living in Bahrain can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as the country has a rich culture, a welcoming population, and a high standard of living. Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about living in Bahrain:

Accommodation: There are several options for accommodation in Bahrain, including apartments, villas, and houses. Rent prices can vary depending on the location and quality of the property. Some schools or institutes may provide accommodation as part of the employment package.
Transportation: Bahrain has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a modern international airport. Traffic can be heavy in the larger cities, but public transportation is relatively cheap and efficient.
Food: Bahrain has a diverse population and a wide variety of cuisines available, including local dishes and international options. However, the cost of food, especially imported items, can be relatively high.
Cultural customs: Bahrain is a predominantly Muslim country and follows Islamic customs and traditions. It is important to be respectful of these customs, such as dress codes and rules around alcohol consumption, when living in Bahrain.
Safety: Bahrain is generally a safe country, with a low crime rate. However, as with any country, it is a good idea to be aware

Overall, living in Bahrain can be an enjoyable and enriching experience, offering the opportunity to learn about a new culture and make new friends.

Some facts About Bahrain

Here are a few facts about Bahrain:

Location: Bahrain is an island nation located in the Middle East, in the Persian Gulf. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the west and is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Population: The population of Bahrain is approximately 1.7 million people, with a diverse mix of ethnicities and nationalities. The official language is Arabic, although English is widely spoken.
Government: Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy, with a parliamentary system of government. The King of Bahrain serves as the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
Economy: Bahrain has a diverse economy, with a strong financial sector and a growing tourism industry. It is also a major producer of oil and natural gas.
Culture: Bahrain has a rich culture, with a history dating back thousands of years. It is home to a number of cultural attractions, including ancient temples, forts, and museums. The country also has a vibrant arts and music scene.
Religion: The majority of the population in Bahrain is Muslim, with a significant minority of Hindus and Christians. Bahrain is known for its tolerance and religious diversity, with people of different faiths living and worshipping peacefully together.