Teach English in Sharjah, UAE (2024)

Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, is a vibrant city known for its museums, festivals, and historical sites. Nestled on the Persian Gulf, it beautifully bridges the old with the new, combining its rich history with a modern urban landscape. The city is renowned for its commitment to arts, culture, and education, making it a dynamic hub of intellectual and creative activity.

With its distinct blend of tradition and innovation, Sharjah offers a unique setting for educators, particularly those looking to teach English in a culturally rich environment.

Reasons to Teach English in Sharjah

Cultural Immersion: As a UNESCO designated "Cultural Capital of the Arab World", Sharjah provides teachers an authentic insight into Arab culture, history, and traditions. English teachers get the opportunity to immerse themselves in this culture and deepen their understanding of the world.
Advanced Education System: Sharjah takes pride in its progressive education system. Many schools and universities here are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and adhere to international teaching standards.
Professional Development: The emirate emphasizes continuous learning and offers numerous professional development opportunities for educators. This makes it an ideal place for teachers to enhance their skills and expand their teaching repertoire.
Diverse Student Body: The cosmopolitan nature of Sharjah ensures a diverse student body. This diversity provides a rich classroom experience, allowing teachers to interact with students from various cultural backgrounds.
Strategic Location: Sharjah’s proximity to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi means teachers can easily explore these cities during weekends or holidays. Its location also provides easy access to various tourist destinations within the UAE.
Competitive Compensation: Similar to other emirates in the UAE, Sharjah offers competitive salaries to English teachers, often tax-free, with additional benefits like housing allowances, health insurance, and flight reimbursements.
Safe Environment: Known for its safety and security, Sharjah offers a peaceful living environment, allowing teachers and their families to live with peace of mind.
Opportunity to Learn Arabic: Living and teaching in Sharjah provides a golden opportunity to learn Arabic, adding another language to one’s skillset and enhancing intercultural communication abilities.

Understanding Sharjah's Education Landscape

Sharjah's education system is a blend of tradition and modernity. The emirate places a high emphasis on education, with numerous public and private schools catering to its diverse population. These institutions offer a range of curricula, from the local UAE system to British, American, and the International Baccalaureate, among others. Besides schools, Sharjah is home to several higher education institutions, including the renowned University of Sharjah, which attracts students and faculty from around the world.

English plays a pivotal role in the education system of Sharjah. As globalization continues, there's an increasing demand for English proficiency, making English language educators a valuable asset. This demand isn't confined to schools alone; language centers and private tutoring opportunities are abundant, catering to both children and adults looking to improve their English skills.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Sharjah

It's essential to note that while the requirements to teach English in Sharjah mirror those in other parts of the UAE, there may be slight variations depending on specific institutions or positions.

General requirements include:

Bachelor’s Degree: Most institutions require a bachelor’s degree in any subject, although a degree in English, Linguistics, or Education can be an advantage.
TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification: Institutions often prefer teachers who have a teaching certification like CELTA, TEFL, or TESOL.
Experience: A minimum of 2 years of teaching experience is often desired, but this can vary based on the institution.
Native English Speaker: As with many countries, being a native speaker from countries like the USA, UK, South Africa, Australia, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland can be advantageous.
Clear Criminal Record: A clean police clearance or background check is mandatory.
Medical Fitness: A health clearance, including a negative HIV and TB test, is standard procedure.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Sharjah

Teaching in Sharjah can be financially rewarding. English teachers can expect:

Competitive Salaries: Depending on qualifications and experience, monthly salaries can range from AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 or even higher for positions in prestigious institutions.
Housing Allowance: Many employers offer a housing allowance or even provide accommodation, relieving teachers of a significant expense.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is generally provided.
Airfare Reimbursement: It's common for schools to reimburse round-trip airfare, typically at the beginning and end of contracts.
Contract Completion Bonus: Some institutions offer bonuses upon successful completion of the contract.
Paid Leave: In addition to public holidays, teachers often get paid leave, which may include summer vacations, depending on the type of institution.
End-of-Service Benefits: As per UAE labor laws, teachers may receive an end-of-service gratuity after completing their contract.

Living in Sharjah

Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the UAE, is a city that blends the charm of traditional Arabian culture with the conveniences of modern urban living. Here's what potential teachers can expect while living in this beautiful city:

Cultural Hub: Sharjah is often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of the UAE." Home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, the city stands out for its commitment to arts and heritage. The Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization are just two examples of the rich tapestry of cultural offerings.
Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in Sharjah is lower than in neighboring Dubai. Housing, in particular, tends to be more affordable, making it a popular choice for expats working in the region.
Laws and Regulations: Sharjah is more conservative than some of its neighboring emirates. Alcohol is prohibited, and public behavior and dress codes are expected to be in line with Islamic traditions.
Transportation: While Sharjah has an extensive road network and public bus system, many residents opt for private vehicles. Its proximity to Dubai means that many people commute between the two cities, which can lead to rush-hour traffic congestion. Plans for extending the Dubai metro to Sharjah could ease this in the future.
Education: If teachers are relocating with families, they'll find a host of reputable schools offering various international curricula, ensuring that children receive quality education.
Outdoor Activities: Sharjah boasts several parks and natural attractions. Al Noor Island, with its butterfly house and serene landscapes, and the Kalba Bird of Prey Center, are must-visits for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the city's corniche is a popular spot for evening strolls.
Shopping: From modern shopping malls like the City Centre Sharjah to traditional souqs such as the Blue Souq, shopping enthusiasts will find a blend of the modern and the traditional in Sharjah.
Weather: Sharjah experiences a desert climate with hot summers and milder winters. The cooler months between November and March are particularly pleasant, with temperatures conducive to outdoor activities.

Teacher Stories

Michael (USA): "I arrived in Sharjah with a mix of excitement and apprehension. However, the warmth of the locals and my fellow teachers soon eased my worries. I found Sharjah to be a haven of culture, and its slightly slower pace compared to Dubai gave me more time to immerse myself in the local traditions. The highlight of my teaching stint was the genuine eagerness of my students to learn. Their respect for teachers was truly commendable."
Fiona (UK): "Teaching in Sharjah was an eye-opener for me. The resources available in schools were impressive, and the professional development opportunities were unparalleled. I grew not just as a teacher, but also as an individual, navigating a culture distinct from mine, yet so welcoming."
Sipho (South Africa): "What stood out for me in Sharjah was the blend of modernity and tradition. My students were curious about South Africa, and I learned so much about Emirati culture from them. It was a two-way learning experience every single day."
Ella (Australia): "The landscapes of Sharjah are starkly different from the coasts of Australia, but there's a beauty to the deserts and the architecture here that I grew to love. The support system at the school where I taught was fantastic. We had teachers from all over the globe, and we shared so many enriching experiences."
Sean (Ireland): "I'll admit, I initially chose Sharjah because of the competitive salary package. But living here gave me so much more than financial stability. The friendships I forged, the cultural festivals I attended, and the growth I saw in my students made my time truly memorable."
Aria (Canada): "Sharjah's emphasis on education and its respect for teachers is something I hadn't experienced before. The smaller class sizes allowed me to bond better with my students, and the emphasis on holistic learning resonated with my teaching style."
Oliver (New Zealand): "Coming from the green landscapes of New Zealand, Sharjah's deserts were a stark contrast. But I found beauty in its sunsets, its dunes, and its people. Teaching here has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Sharjah

Sharjah, often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor Dubai, holds its own with a unique blend of tradition, culture, and modernity. As echoed in the stories of teachers from native English-speaking countries, the experience of teaching in Sharjah is not just about imparting knowledge but also about personal growth, cultural exchange, and forming lasting bonds.

For those looking to embark on a teaching journey that offers both professional rewards and personal enrichment, Sharjah beckons. With its commitment to education, its respect for teachers, and its emphasis on preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing the future, Sharjah provides a teaching environment that's both challenging and immensely rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a newbie to the world of teaching, consider Sharjah as your next destination and become a part of its vibrant educational tapestry.