Teach English in Saudi Arabia: Requirements, Salary, Jobs

Teach English in Saudi Arabia

Are you thinking about teaching English in Saudi Arabia? With its unique cultural heritage, modern cities, and attractive salaries, Saudi Arabia offers an exciting opportunity for English teachers. From the bustling urban centers of Riyadh and Jeddah to the historical significance of places like Mecca and Medina, there's much to explore while developing your teaching career. This Middle Eastern country is a great option for those considering teaching English abroad.

Saudi Arabia is known for its competitive salaries and tax-free benefits, making it a popular destination for teachers looking to save money while experiencing a different part of the world. The country offers a warm climate, modern amenities, and a growing demand for English proficiency in both education and business.

Situated in the heart of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia provides a gateway to exploring nearby countries and regions. Whether you're an experienced teacher or new to the profession, teaching in Saudi Arabia allows you to gain valuable experience while immersing yourself in the country's rich traditions and contemporary lifestyle.

Why Teach English in Saudi Arabia?

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of professional and personal benefits. Here are some reasons why Saudi Arabia is a top destination for English teachers.

Immerse Yourself in a Fascinating Culture

Saudi Arabia’s culture is deeply rooted in tradition, but it is also evolving rapidly as the country embraces modernization. As a teacher, you will have the opportunity to learn about and participate in the rich Islamic traditions that define daily life.

Saudi Arabia is home to numerous cultural landmarks and historical sites. Teachers living in cities like Riyadh or Jeddah can explore ancient markets, beautiful mosques, and desert landscapes. You can also witness significant religious practices, such as the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, which is a cornerstone of Islamic faith.

Enjoy High Salaries and Tax-Free Income

One of the most appealing aspects of teaching in Saudi Arabia is the attractive compensation package. Teachers can expect high salaries, often accompanied by benefits such as free accommodation, medical insurance, and flights to and from your home country. The best part? Salaries are typically tax-free, allowing you to save a substantial amount.

Salaries vary depending on the type of institution and your experience, but it is common for teachers to earn significantly more in Saudi Arabia compared to other teaching destinations. English teachers in international schools and universities often receive the highest compensation.

Experience Modern and Well-Developed Cities

While Saudi Arabia holds on to its traditions, its major cities are modern and continuously developing. Riyadh, the capital, offers a mix of futuristic skyscrapers and ancient architecture, while Jeddah is known for its beautiful Red Sea coastlines and more liberal atmosphere.

Living in Saudi cities, you’ll find all the modern conveniences you need, from shopping malls to international restaurants and world-class healthcare. The country is also investing heavily in new cities and tourist developments as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and open the country to global visitors.

Explore the Natural Beauty of the Arabian Peninsula

Beyond the cities, Saudi Arabia offers breathtaking natural landscapes. You can explore the vast Rub' al Khali Desert (the Empty Quarter), hike through the Asir Mountains, or visit the coastal areas along the Red Sea, where you can dive into some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs.

For those seeking adventure, Saudi Arabia’s landscape offers plenty of opportunities for desert safaris, camping, and exploring ancient rock carvings and tombs, such as those at Madain Saleh.

A Safe and Secure Environment

Saudi Arabia is known for its safety and low crime rates, making it an attractive destination for teachers who want peace of mind while working and living abroad. While there are cultural restrictions, such as dress codes and gender segregation in certain areas, the country offers a secure and well-organized environment for expats.

Opportunities for Professional Growth

With a strong focus on education as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in improving English proficiency. This has resulted in a growing demand for qualified English teachers at all levels, from primary schools to universities and private language centers. There are also opportunities for teachers to advance their careers, gain new certifications, and build valuable experience in the Middle East.

Travel Across the Middle East and Beyond

Saudi Arabia’s central location in the Middle East makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby countries such as United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan, and Egypt. Additionally, with competitive salaries and tax-free income, teachers often have the resources to travel during their vacations. Direct flights connect Saudi Arabia to Europe, Africa, and Asia, making it easy to plan trips and broaden your cultural experiences.

Grow Personally and Professionally

Teaching in Saudi Arabia is an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development. Living and working in a different cultural environment will broaden your worldview, improve your adaptability, and enhance your cross-cultural communication skills. The experience can also boost your resume, providing you with valuable credentials for future teaching opportunities worldwide.

Requirements to Teach English in Saudi Arabia

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia is a lucrative opportunity, but there are specific requirements that potential teachers need to meet. Here’s what most schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia typically look for:

🎓 Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree is usually required to teach English in Saudi Arabia. Most schools prefer candidates with degrees in English, education, or linguistics, but a degree in any field is generally acceptable. Some schools may also consider candidates with degrees in other subjects if they have relevant teaching qualifications.

📜 Teaching Qualification: Having a TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, or DELTA certification is highly recommended and often required by schools in Saudi Arabia. These certifications equip you with essential teaching methodologies and classroom management skills that are crucial for teaching English to non-native speakers. International schools and universities may require more advanced qualifications, such as a master's degree or additional teaching credentials.

🛂 Work Visa: To teach in Saudi Arabia, you will need to obtain a work visa. The visa process is often handled by your employer, but it’s essential to provide the necessary documentation, including a valid passport, a certified copy of your degree and TEFL certificate, and a clean criminal background check. The visa process can take several weeks, so it’s advisable to plan ahead.

📖 Native English Speaker Requirement: In most cases, schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia prefer native English speakers from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and South Africa. However, non-native English speakers with high proficiency and strong qualifications may still find opportunities, particularly in private language centers.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience: Saudi Arabian employers generally prefer teachers with at least two years of teaching experience, particularly for positions in universities, international schools, and government programs. However, some language schools may hire teachers with less experience if they have strong qualifications. For higher-level positions, such as university teaching, more experience and advanced degrees may be required.

📋 Other Requirements: Additional requirements can vary by institution. Some schools may expect candidates to have prior experience teaching in the Middle East or to be familiar with the local culture. It’s also common for schools to look for teachers with good classroom management skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to adapt to different learning environments. Be sure to check with each school or language center for their specific requirements.

By meeting these qualifications, you’ll increase your chances of securing a teaching job in Saudi Arabia and benefit from the competitive salaries, tax-free income, and extensive benefits packages typically offered to foreign teachers.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Saudi Arabia

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia presents a lucrative opportunity for foreign teachers. Saudi Arabia's rapidly growing demand for English teachers, coupled with its competitive salaries and generous benefits, makes it an attractive destination. The amount you can earn depends on the type of institution you work for, as well as your qualifications and experience.

Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of teaching opportunities, from public schools and language centers to prestigious international schools and universities. Contracts are typically one to two years, and class sizes can vary. Below is an overview of the types of teaching jobs and the salaries you can expect.

Public School Teaching Jobs and Salaries

Saudi Arabia provides free public education for its citizens, and English is a key component of the curriculum. Public schools typically offer salaries between 12,000 to 15,000 SAR ($3,200 to $4,000) per month, which is competitive given the lower cost of living in some regions. Teachers in public schools often enjoy a supportive work environment, but large class sizes (ranging from 25 to 40 students) can present a challenge.

Public schools usually offer benefits such as free housing or a housing allowance, health insurance, and flight allowances. While salaries are on the lower end compared to private or international schools, the comprehensive benefits package makes these positions attractive to many teachers.

Private School Teaching Jobs and Salaries

Private schools in Saudi Arabia often offer smaller class sizes and better resources compared to public schools. Salaries for teachers at private schools range from 15,000 to 20,000 SAR ($4,000 to $5,300) per month, depending on the school’s reputation, the location, and your experience.

Private schools typically offer housing allowances, flight allowances, and health insurance. Additionally, some schools may provide end-of-service bonuses after completing your contract. These schools often have a diverse student body, with a mix of Saudi and expatriate students, which can make for a rich and varied teaching experience.

International School Teaching Jobs and Salaries

International schools in Saudi Arabia are some of the best-paying teaching positions available. These schools follow Western curricula, such as American, British, or IB (International Baccalaureate), and generally cater to the children of expatriates and affluent Saudis. Salaries in international schools can range from 20,000 to 30,000 SAR ($5,300 to $8,000) per month.

Teachers at international schools typically receive generous benefits, including free housing or a housing allowance, annual flights home, comprehensive health insurance, and paid vacations. These positions are highly competitive and often require teachers to have advanced qualifications, such as a teaching license or a master’s degree, in addition to a TEFL/TESOL certification.

Language School Teaching Jobs and Salaries

Language schools offer another avenue for English teachers in Saudi Arabia, particularly for those looking to teach adult learners or provide specialized English instruction. Salaries for language schools generally range from 10,000 to 15,000 SAR ($2,700 to $4,000) per month.

Language schools often operate outside regular school hours, with classes taking place in the evenings or on weekends. Teachers in these schools may work part-time or full-time and may have the flexibility to teach specialized courses, such as business English or exam preparation. While the salaries at language schools are generally lower than in international schools, they still provide a solid income and often include benefits such as housing allowances.

University Teaching Jobs and Salaries

Teaching at a university in Saudi Arabia is considered a prestigious position and comes with a higher salary and significant benefits. University English instructors generally earn between 15,000 to 22,000 SAR ($4,000 to $5,900) per month.

University positions typically offer excellent benefits, including free housing, flight allowances, health insurance, and long paid vacations. In addition to teaching, university instructors may be expected to participate in curriculum development, research, and other academic duties. These roles often require more advanced qualifications, such as a master’s degree or PhD, along with several years of teaching experience.

Private Tutoring Jobs and Salaries

Many English teachers in Saudi Arabia supplement their income by offering private tutoring. Tutoring is a lucrative opportunity, particularly in larger cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, where demand is high among families and professionals looking to improve their English skills. Tutors can charge between 100 to 300 SAR ($27 to $80) per hour, depending on their experience and the type of lessons offered.

Private tutoring provides flexibility, allowing teachers to set their own schedules and choose their clients. However, it requires effort to build a reliable client base, and teachers should be aware of the cultural norms regarding private lessons.

Benefits of Teaching in Saudi Arabia

In addition to competitive salaries, teaching in Saudi Arabia comes with many perks:

• Tax-Free Income: Salaries in Saudi Arabia are typically tax-free, which can significantly boost your savings potential.
• Housing Allowance or Free Accommodation: Most schools and universities provide either free accommodation or a housing allowance, which reduces living costs.
• Flight Allowances: Many employers offer free round-trip flights or flight allowances at the beginning and end of the contract.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is often included as part of the benefits package.
• End-of-Service Bonus: Upon completion of a contract, teachers are often eligible for an end-of-service gratuity, which is based on the length of service.

Teaching in Saudi Arabia offers excellent financial rewards and the chance to experience a new culture while saving money. By choosing the right teaching position, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and take advantage of the many benefits available to foreign educators.

Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia

When considering the cost of living in Saudi Arabia, it's helpful to break down expenses into two categories: essentials (needs) and luxuries (wants). Essentials include rent, utilities, internet, food, and transportation, while personal luxuries depend on lifestyle preferences, such as dining out, entertainment, and fitness memberships. Saudi Arabia offers an affordable cost of living for expats, especially for English teachers, with varying costs depending on whether you live in a major city like Riyadh or Jeddah or a smaller town.

The following breakdown of common monthly expenses is based on recent data from Numbeo:

Housing

Housing is often the most significant expense for English teachers in Saudi Arabia. For a single person, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 SAR (around $267 to $1,334) per month. Outside the city center, this cost decreases significantly to between 800 to 3,500 SAR (approximately $214 to $933).

For families, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from 1,800 to 8,000 SAR (about $480 to $2,134), while outside the city center, prices are typically 1,400 to 5,000 SAR (roughly $373 to $1,334).

Living in the city center provides easy access to amenities, schools, and social activities but comes with higher rent. Areas outside the city center offer a quieter lifestyle and more affordable housing options, suitable for families or those looking to save on rent.

Food

Saudi Arabia offers a variety of affordable food options. Local markets and supermarkets provide budget-friendly grocery options, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costing around 25 SAR (about $6.67), ranging from 15 to 50 SAR ($4.00 to $13.34). Basic groceries such as rice, chicken, and fresh produce are reasonably priced, making it easy to maintain a balanced diet on a modest budget. A cappuccino costs about 14.48 SAR ($3.86), while a non-alcoholic domestic beer is approximately 6.49 SAR ($1.73).

For those who prefer imported goods or dining at higher-end restaurants, costs will be higher. However, local restaurants and food markets remain popular and budget-friendly options.

Transportation

Transportation in Saudi Arabia is relatively affordable. A one-way ticket for local transport averages around 4 SAR (1.07 USD), while monthly passes range from 45 to 250 SAR (12 to 67 USD). Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem start at 10 SAR (2.67 USD), and gasoline is inexpensive at around 8.76 SAR (2.33 USD) per gallon. Public transportation options are expanding, particularly in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah.

Utilities and Internet

Monthly utilities, including electricity, water, garbage, and cooling, for an average apartment (around 915 sq ft) typically range between 250 to 900 SAR (67 to 240 USD), with an average of 410.73 SAR (109.70 USD). Internet services are reliable and reasonably priced, with a 60 Mbps or more unlimited data plan costing about 268.96 SAR (71.82 USD) per month.

Entertainment and Leisure

Entertainment and leisure activities in Saudi Arabia are diverse and reasonably priced. A gym membership costs around 357.96 SAR (95.60 USD) per month, while cinema tickets range from 50 to 85 SAR (13.34 to 22.67 USD) per ticket. Whether exploring historic cultural sites, relaxing at a private beach, or visiting local parks, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to suit all interests.

Monthly Cost Summary

For a single person, the estimated monthly costs are around 3,026.9 SAR (805 USD) without rent. For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are approximately 10,791.7 SAR (2,868 USD) without rent. Including rent will vary your total cost depending on your choice of accommodation and its location.

The Best Places to Teach English in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia offers a range of opportunities for English teachers across its diverse regions. Whether you prefer the vibrant city life or a more traditional, quieter environment, there is a place for every teacher. Here's a guide to the top destinations for teaching English in Saudi Arabia, each offering unique experiences and opportunities.

Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is the political and economic hub of the country. It’s known for its modern infrastructure, luxury shopping malls, and cultural landmarks such as the Kingdom Centre and Masmak Fortress. Teaching English in Riyadh provides an exciting opportunity to work with students of all ages, from young learners to professionals in business and government sectors. As the country continues to expand its global reach, Riyadh is an ideal destination for teachers looking to build their careers in a dynamic and fast-growing city.

English teaching jobs in Riyadh

Jeddah

Jeddah, located on the Red Sea coast, is the gateway to Mecca and a major commercial hub. The city’s rich history, coupled with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, makes Jeddah a unique place to live and work. Teaching English in Jeddah offers teachers a blend of modern amenities and deep-rooted culture. You'll find students from various backgrounds eager to improve their English skills for international business, tourism, and travel purposes. With its beaches, historical sites, and relaxed lifestyle, Jeddah is a perfect balance of work and leisure.

English teaching jobs in Jeddah

Dammam

Dammam, part of the Eastern Province and located near the Persian Gulf, is a vital industrial and trade city. It’s known for its oil-based economy and close proximity to Bahrain. Teaching English in Dammam offers teachers the chance to work with students in both academic settings and corporate environments, where English proficiency is essential for professional success. The region is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a culturally rich environment with opportunities for travel to nearby Gulf countries.

Khobar

Al Khobar is another city located in the Eastern Province, offering a quieter lifestyle compared to Riyadh and Jeddah. It’s a coastal city known for its expat-friendly environment, shopping districts, and entertainment venues. Teachers in Khobar often work in language centers or international schools, catering to both locals and expats. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Bahrain make it an attractive option for those looking for a balanced work-life experience.

Other Notable Destinations

Saudi Arabia’s smaller cities and towns also offer rewarding teaching opportunities. Abha, located in the Asir Mountains, provides a cooler climate and scenic landscapes, perfect for teachers who enjoy outdoor activities. Madinah, known as the "City of the Prophet," is a spiritual and historical center that offers a more traditional and culturally immersive teaching experience. Taif, known for its rose gardens and cooler climate, is another unique location for teachers looking for a more relaxed and serene environment.

In the northern region, Tabuk offers stunning desert landscapes and historic sites, giving teachers a glimpse into the kingdom's natural beauty and history. Al Jubail, an industrial city on the Gulf coast, provides opportunities for teaching in corporate settings, especially for teachers with experience in business English. Each of these destinations brings its own charm and teaching opportunities, allowing teachers to explore different parts of Saudi culture and lifestyle while making a positive impact in education.

Insights into Saudi Culture for English Teachers

Saudi Arabia is a country deeply rooted in tradition and Islamic values, and for teachers, understanding the local culture is key to a successful and fulfilling teaching experience. Saudi society is known for its hospitality, strong sense of community, and adherence to customs that have been passed down for generations.

Greeting and Social Etiquette

In Saudi Arabia, greetings are important. A handshake is common, especially between men, but it is also essential to note that gender interactions are more conservative. It’s important to wait and see if a handshake is offered, particularly when interacting with women. For men greeting women or women greeting men, a nod or verbal greeting may suffice in more conservative settings. Using the phrase “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) is a respectful way to greet others.

Family plays a central role in Saudi society, and it’s common for social interactions to be centered around gatherings and meals. As a teacher, showing interest in your students’ families and cultural background can help build rapport and trust in the classroom.

Communication and Respect

Saudi society places a strong emphasis on respect, particularly in terms of age and status. Addressing older individuals or authority figures with appropriate respect is expected. Teachers will find that students are generally polite and respectful, but it’s important to maintain an authoritative yet approachable demeanor in the classroom.

Public displays of disagreement or confrontations are uncommon. Saudis tend to communicate indirectly when handling sensitive topics, so teachers should be mindful of this and approach issues tactfully.

Public Conduct and Physical Gestures

Saudi Arabia is a conservative country, and public displays of affection are frowned upon. It’s important for teachers to dress modestly and adhere to local customs regarding behavior in public spaces. Teachers should also be aware of the cultural significance of the right and left hand. The right hand is used for eating and greeting, while using the left hand is considered impolite.

During prayer times, which occur five times daily, teachers will notice that businesses close, and people pause for worship. It’s important to be respectful during these moments and adjust schedules accordingly.

Religious Observance and National Pride

Islam plays a central role in daily life in Saudi Arabia. Understanding and respecting Islamic customs, such as Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, is essential for teachers. During this time, it’s respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Saudi Arabia’s national pride is reflected in the significance of the Saudi flag and national holidays such as Saudi National Day. Teachers may also encounter students with a strong sense of pride in their heritage and should respect this by fostering a culturally inclusive classroom environment.

By understanding these cultural nuances, teachers in Saudi Arabia can foster a more effective learning environment and build stronger connections with their students and colleagues, making their time in the country more rewarding.

Do You Need to Speak Arabic to Teach English in Saudi Arabia?

The short answer is no, you do not need to speak Arabic to teach English in Saudi Arabia. Most schools and institutions prefer that English be the primary language used in the classroom to create an immersive learning environment for students. This English-only approach helps students improve their language skills faster.

However, learning basic Arabic phrases can greatly enhance your experience in Saudi Arabia. Understanding simple greetings and conversational phrases will help you navigate daily life, from ordering food to communicating with locals. It also shows respect for the culture and can help you build stronger relationships with your students and colleagues.

Though not necessary for teaching, acquiring some Arabic language skills can help you gain deeper insights into the local culture and may make your overall experience in Saudi Arabia more enriching.

Do you need to be a native English speaker to teach English in Saudi Arabia?

No, you don’t need to be a native English speaker to teach English in Saudi Arabia. While native speakers are often preferred, many schools and language institutions in Saudi Arabia are open to hiring fluent non-native English speakers, especially if they possess strong language skills and a clear understanding of English grammar and pronunciation. Non-native speakers who can demonstrate fluency, combined with recognized qualifications like a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate, can stand out to potential employers.

In many cases, teaching ability, experience, and qualifications outweigh the preference for native speakers. Schools in Saudi Arabia are focused on hiring teachers who can deliver high-quality lessons and improve students' English skills. If you’re a non-native speaker with a solid teaching background or relevant certifications, you will likely have good opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, having experience with other languages, such as Arabic, can be seen as an asset and may help you better relate to students who are learning English as a second language.

Do You Need a TEFL Certificate to Teach English in Saudi Arabia?

While it’s possible to find teaching jobs in Saudi Arabia without a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate, having one significantly increases your chances of securing a good position. Many schools and language centers in Saudi Arabia prefer, or even require, teachers to hold a TEFL certificate, as it shows that you are equipped to teach English effectively, especially to non-native speakers.

If you’re considering where to take your TEFL course, you have the option of completing it in Saudi Arabia or online. Taking a course locally can help you acclimate to the country's teaching environment and educational needs. However, online TEFL courses offer more flexibility and are often more affordable. With online options, you can study at your own pace and choose from a wider range of accredited programs that fit your schedule.

Can You Teach English in Saudi Arabia Without a Degree?

In Saudi Arabia, having a degree is often a requirement for teaching English, especially at reputable schools and universities. Most employers prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree, regardless of the field of study. However, some institutions may allow for flexibility, particularly for private tutoring or lower-tier language schools. In these cases, a TEFL certification can strengthen your application.

If you don’t have a degree, securing a teaching job in Saudi Arabia may be more challenging, but it’s not impossible. Obtaining a TEFL certificate can help you stand out, as it demonstrates that you have the knowledge and tools necessary to teach English to non-native speakers. While a degree may still be required by many institutions, having a TEFL certification can open doors to more informal teaching positions, such as private tutoring or smaller language schools.

Can You Teach English in Saudi Arabia Without Experience?

Yes, you can teach English in Saudi Arabia without prior teaching experience, especially if you hold the right qualifications. Many schools are willing to hire teachers who are just starting out, provided they have a strong command of the English language and a TEFL certification. Native English speakers or individuals with strong language skills are often sought after, even without extensive experience.

A TEFL certificate is highly recommended for teachers without experience, as it equips you with essential skills such as classroom management, lesson planning, and student engagement strategies. Completing a TEFL course gives you a foundational understanding of teaching methodologies, which will make you a more attractive candidate to employers in Saudi Arabia. This certification can help you secure entry-level teaching positions and build your teaching career in a competitive market.

In Saudi Arabia, having a TEFL certification can provide you with the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed as a first-time teacher, even without prior experience.

How to Find English Teaching Jobs in Saudi Arabia

Finding a teaching job in Saudi Arabia can be a straightforward process if you know where to look and how to present yourself effectively. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through your job search:

Online Job Portals

One of the best ways to find teaching jobs in Saudi Arabia is through online platforms that specialize in teaching opportunities. Websites like Teast provide detailed listings of job openings, including information about qualifications, salaries, and how to apply. Saudi-based job portals such as Bayt and GulfTalent also occasionally post teaching positions.

Contact Language Schools Directly

Not all language schools in Saudi Arabia post their job vacancies online. A proactive approach is to directly reach out to language schools, especially in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, where there is a growing demand for English teachers. Sending a professional email with your CV and cover letter to these schools can help you stand out. Even if they don’t have current openings, they may keep your details on file for future opportunities.

Leverage Social Media and Teaching Networks

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook have groups dedicated to teaching English in Saudi Arabia. By joining these groups, you can network with current and former teachers and recruiters who frequently post job opportunities. This is also a great way to gather firsthand advice and tips from teachers who have experience working in the country. LinkedIn is particularly useful for connecting with educational institutions and recruiters across Saudi Arabia.

Prepare Your Application Materials

To stand out in your job search, ensure your CV highlights your relevant qualifications, such as a TEFL certificate, and any previous teaching or tutoring experience. If you don’t have direct teaching experience, focus on transferable skills like communication, leadership, and organization. In your cover letter, emphasize why you’re interested in teaching in Saudi Arabia and how your background aligns with the needs of the schools or language centers you're applying to.

Consider Offering Private Tutoring

Private tutoring is a popular option in Saudi Arabia, especially among students preparing for exams like the IELTS or professionals looking to improve their English skills for business. Offering private lessons can be a great way to supplement your income or even serve as a primary job. You can advertise your services through social media, community boards, or partner with local language schools to find students. Online companies also provide a platform to connect with a broader range of learners. Private tutoring provides flexibility in your schedule and allows you to build strong relationships with your students.

By following these strategies, you’ll increase your chances of finding an English teaching job in Saudi Arabia and may even secure a position before arriving.