Teach English in Saudi Arabia: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Saudi Arabia

There are several reasons why teaching English in Saudi Arabia might be a good opportunity for English language teachers:

High demand for English language education: Saudi Arabia has a strong emphasis on education and there is a high demand for English language instruction in schools and language centers.
Attractive salary and benefits: English language teachers in Saudi Arabia can often earn a good salary and receive additional benefits such as housing and airfare.
Professional development opportunities: Working in Saudi Arabia can provide English language teachers with the opportunity to develop their professional skills and gain international experience.
Cultural experience: Saudi Arabia is a culturally rich and interesting place to live and work, offering the opportunity to experience a new culture and way of life.
Travel and tourism: Saudi Arabia is home to many historical and cultural attractions, such as the city of Mecca (the holiest city in Islam), the ancient ruins of Mada'in Saleh, and the Red Sea coast, making it an interesting place to visit and explore during time off.

What are the requirements to teach English in Saudi Arabia?

The requirements for teaching English in Saudi Arabia may vary depending on the specific institution and location, but generally, the following requirements are common:

A bachelor's degree: Most schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia require teachers to hold at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as education or linguistics.
A teaching qualification: Many institutions in Saudi Arabia prefer to hire teachers who have a teaching qualification, such as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) certificate.
Teaching experience: Some schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia may prefer to hire teachers with previous teaching experience, although this is not always a requirement.
A valid work visa: In order to work in Saudi Arabia, foreign teachers will need to obtain a valid work visa. This process will usually be handled by the employer.
A clean criminal record: Most schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia will require teachers to undergo a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.
Fluency in English: As English is the language of instruction in Saudi Arabia, it is essential that teachers are fluent in English and able to speak, read, and write at a high level.
Cultural sensitivity: As Saudi Arabia is a culturally and religiously conservative country, it is important for teachers to be sensitive to and respectful of local customs and traditions.

Do you need to speak Arabic to teach English in Saudi Arabia?

It is not typically a requirement to speak Arabic in order to teach English in Saudi Arabia. English is the language of instruction in schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia, so fluency in English is the most important requirement for English language teachers.

However, it may be helpful to have some basic knowledge of Arabic, as this can help teachers to better understand and adapt to the local culture and way of life. Additionally, being able to speak some Arabic may also make it easier to communicate with local colleagues and students outside of the classroom.

Overall, while speaking Arabic is not a requirement for teaching English in Saudi Arabia, it can be a useful skill to have and may enhance the overall teaching experience.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Saudi Arabia?

Salaries for English teachers in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of institution you are working for, your level of education and experience, and the location of the job. In general, however, English teachers in Saudi Arabia can expect to earn a competitive salary.

The average salary for an English teacher in Saudi Arabia is approximately $46,000 per year or $1700 - $4000 per month. This figure is based on a range of salaries reported by English teachers working in Saudi Arabia, and it may not reflect the specific salary you might receive for a particular job.

It is important to note that the cost of living in Saudi Arabia can be relatively high, particularly in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. However, many English teachers in Saudi Arabia receive additional benefits such as housing, transportation, and medical insurance, which can help offset the cost of living.

In summary, English teachers in Saudi Arabia can expect to earn a competitive salary, although the specific amount will depend on a variety of factors.

What is the cost of living in Saudi Arabia?

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia can vary significantly depending on the location and the specific expenses you incur. In general, the cost of living in Saudi Arabia is relatively high, particularly in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. However, the cost of living can be lower in smaller cities and rural areas.

Some of the factors that can affect the cost of living in Saudi Arabia include the cost of housing, transportation, food, and other daily expenses.

Housing costs in Saudi Arabia can be high, especially in major cities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from around $500 to $1,500 per month, depending on the location and the quality of the apartment. Outside of the city center, rent may be slightly lower.

Transportation costs in Saudi Arabia can also be relatively high, especially if you own a car. Gasoline prices are relatively low in Saudi Arabia, but the cost of maintaining a car, including insurance and maintenance, can be significant. Public transportation is available in major cities, but it may not be as convenient as private transportation.

Food costs in Saudi Arabia can vary depending on your dietary preferences and where you shop. Prices for fresh produce and meats can be relatively high, but prices for processed and packaged foods may be similar to or slightly lower than prices in other countries.

Overall, the cost of living in Saudi Arabia can be high, particularly in major cities, but it is possible to live comfortably with careful budgeting and planning.

The best places to teach English In Saudi Arabia

There are many great places to teach English in Saudi Arabia, and the best place for you will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Some of the factors to consider when choosing a place to teach English in Saudi Arabia include the location, the type of institution you will be working for, and the availability of housing and other benefits.

Here are a few potential options to consider when looking for a place to teach English in Saudi Arabia:

Riyadh: The capital city of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is a modern, cosmopolitan city with a variety of teaching opportunities. It is home to a number of international schools, language centers, and universities, making it a popular destination for English teachers.
Jeddah: Located on the Red Sea coast, Jeddah is a major hub for international business and trade. It is home to a number of international schools and language centers, and it has a vibrant expat community.
Dammam: Located in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia, Dammam is a major industrial and commercial center. It is home to a number of universities and schools, and it is a popular destination for English teachers.
Al-Khobar: Located in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia, Al-Khobar is a major hub for international business and trade. It is home to a number of international schools and language centers, making it a popular destination for English teachers.
Other cities: In addition to the above-mentioned cities, there are many other great places to teach English in Saudi Arabia, including cities like Medina, Mecca, and Taif.

Ultimately, the best place to teach English in Saudi Arabia will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. It is a good idea to research different locations and institutions carefully before making a decision.

Living in Saudi Arabia

Living in Saudi Arabia can be a unique and rewarding experience. The country is known for its rich culture and history, and it offers a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. However, there are also a number of things to consider when living in Saudi Arabia, particularly for those who are not familiar with the country or its culture.

Here are a few things to consider when living in Saudi Arabia:

Culture and customs: Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country with a rich cultural heritage. It is important to respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and social norms.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Saudi Arabia can be relatively high, particularly in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. However, many expats receive additional benefits such as housing, transportation, and medical insurance, which can help offset the cost of living.
Climate: Saudi Arabia has a desert climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The temperature can reach over 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer, so it is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Safety: Saudi Arabia is generally a safe country, but it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Language: Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, but English is widely spoken and is the language of instruction at many schools and universities.

Overall, living in Saudi Arabia can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it is important to be prepared and aware of the unique challenges and cultural differences that you may encounter.

Some facts About Saudi Arabia

Some facts About Saudi Arabia:

Saudi Arabia is a large country located in the Middle East, covering an area of approximately 2.15 million square kilometers. It is bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen. Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the world by land area and the second-largest Arab country in the world, after Algeria.

Here are a few other facts about Saudi Arabia:

Population: Saudi Arabia has a population of approximately 34 million people. The majority of the population is concentrated in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.
Official language: Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia.
Religion: Islam is the official religion of Saudi Arabia, and the vast majority of the population is Muslim.
Government: Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, and the King of Saudi Arabia is the head of state.
Economy: Saudi Arabia is a major global player in the oil and gas industry, and it is the world's leading exporter of oil. The country's economy is also supported by other industries, including construction, finance, and manufacturing.
Culture and society: Saudi Arabia has a rich cultural heritage, and its society is influenced by Islam and Bedouin traditions. The country is known for its historic sites, such as the city of Medina, and for its annual hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Geography: Saudi Arabia is a predominantly desert country, with a large portion of the country covered by the Arabian Desert. It is also home to a number of mountain ranges, including the Sarawat Mountains, which run parallel to the Red Sea coast.

Overall, Saudi Arabia is a diverse and complex country with a rich history and culture. It is a major player in the global economy and has a unique and influential role in the Middle East.