Teach English in The Middle East: Best Places & Jobs (2023)

Teach English in The Middle East

There are several reasons why teaching English in the Middle East can be a rewarding experience:

Opportunity to learn about and experience a new culture: The Middle East is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and teaching English in the Middle East allows you to immerse yourself in this culture and learn about local traditions and customs.
Career development opportunities: Teaching English in the Middle East can be a great way to gain international experience and broaden your professional horizons.
Personal growth and development: Living and working in a foreign country can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. It can help you become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded.
Make a positive impact: As an English teacher, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of your students by helping them to develop their English skills and expand their horizons.
Competitive salary and benefits: Many countries in the Middle East offer competitive salaries and benefits to foreign English teachers, including housing and airfare.
Exciting travel opportunities: Teaching English in the Middle East can provide you with the opportunity to explore and travel to new and exciting destinations.
High demand for English teachers: Many countries in the Middle East have a high demand for English teachers, particularly in countries where English is not the primary language.

Reasons why English is Taught in The Middle East

There are several reasons why English is taught in the Middle East:

English is a global language: It is spoken as a first or second language in many countries around the world and is the language of international communication, business, and diplomacy. As such, learning English is seen as a valuable skill in the Middle East and can help students communicate with people from other countries and access a wider range of job opportunities.
English is used in higher education: Many universities in the Middle East, particularly those that are internationally recognized, teach their courses in English. This means that students who want to pursue higher education may need to have a good command of English in order to succeed in their studies.
English is used in the tech industry: The tech industry is a major employer in many countries in the Middle East, and many of the top tech companies use English as their primary language of communication. Learning English can therefore help students to pursue careers in the tech industry.
English is used in the tourism industry: Tourism is a major industry in many countries in the Middle East, and many tourists expect to be able to communicate in English when they visit. Learning English can therefore be beneficial for those who want to work in the tourism industry.
English is used in the oil and gas industry: The oil and gas industry is a major employer in many countries in the Middle East, and English is often used as the language of communication within this industry. Learning English can therefore be helpful for those who want to pursue careers in this field.

The best places to Teach English in The Middle East

There are many great places to teach English in the Middle East, and the best place for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Some popular destinations for teaching English in the Middle East include:

United Arab Emirates: A federation of seven emirates, the UAE is a hub of innovation, luxury, and architectural marvels. Known for its towering skyscrapers, sprawling malls, and sun-kissed beaches, the UAE presents a fusion of traditional Bedouin culture with contemporary advancements. As a leader in global commerce and tourism, the demand for English teachers in the UAE is ever-growing, driven by its ambition to be at the forefront of global education and business. Offering competitive salaries, tax-free benefits, and an unparalleled expat lifestyle, the UAE is a top destination for educators aiming for a blend of cultural immersion and modern comforts.
Qatar: Qatar is rapidly transforming into an international hotspot. This peninsular Arab country, known for its futuristic skyline and historic souqs, places a premium on education. With its National Vision 2030, Qatar aims to transition into a knowledge-based economy, which has amplified the demand for English teachers. Offering expats an opulent lifestyle, tax-free high salaries, and a chance to experience a meld of tradition and modernity, Qatar is an enticing teaching destination.
Saudi Arabia: A country steeped in tradition and the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia is undergoing a transformative phase with its Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at diversifying its oil-dependent economy. As it opens up to international tourism and modernizes its sectors, the demand for English teachers is on the rise. For educators, Saudi Arabia offers an opportunity to immerse in the heart of Arab culture, earn competitive, tax-free salaries, and be part of a nation on the cusp of monumental change.
Oman: A hidden gem on the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is characterized by its diverse landscapes – from golden deserts to green mountains and azure coasts. Rich in history and proud of its heritage, Oman offers a serene, friendly environment for expats. The Omani government's push towards bolstering its education sector has created a surge in opportunities for English teachers. Living in Oman provides educators with a chance to experience genuine Arabian hospitality, an affordable quality of life, and a teaching environment that values cultural exchange.
Kuwait: Nestled at the tip of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is a blend of modern cityscapes and age-old traditions. As a major oil exporter, the country's prosperity is evident in its infrastructure, services, and the quality of life it offers its residents. With its emphasis on education as a pivotal pillar for future growth, there's a substantial demand for English educators in Kuwait. Teachers can expect lucrative, tax-free salaries, a hospitable community, and an opportunity to experience a confluence of tradition and modernity in this Arabian land.
Bahrain: Located in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain is a small island nation with a rich history and cultural heritage. Boasting one of the fastest-growing economies in the Arab world, Bahrain has a burgeoning demand for English educators to cater to its globalizing workforce and young population. With its cosmopolitan vibe, relatively liberal lifestyle, and warm, hospitable locals, Bahrain offers a unique teaching experience in the Middle East, blending traditional Arab culture with contemporary aspirations.

It's worth noting that each of these countries has its own unique culture and teaching environment, so it's important to do your research and choose a destination that aligns with your goals and interests.

How to Find an English Teaching Job in The Middle East

There are several ways to find teaching jobs in the Middle East:

Online job portals: There are many websites that list teaching jobs in the Middle East, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Teast. These websites allow you to search for jobs by location, type of institution, and other criteria.
Recruitment agencies: There are many recruitment agencies that specialize in placing English teachers in schools and universities in the Middle East. These agencies often provide support with the job search process, including help with finding accommodation and obtaining visas.
Networking: Networking with other English teachers and educators in the Middle East can be a great way to find job opportunities. You can join online groups and forums, attend teaching conferences and workshops, and reach out to schools and universities directly to inquire about job openings.
Teaching abroad programs: There are many programs that offer support and resources for those interested in teaching abroad, including teaching English in the Middle East. These programs often provide help with finding job placements, obtaining visas, and adjusting to life in a new country.

It's important to do your research and choose a job that is reputable and offers a good working environment and salary. Be sure to carefully review the terms of the job contract and consider seeking legal advice if necessary. It's also important to be aware of cultural differences and local laws and customs in the Middle East.