Interested in working in the UAE? As a country that has one of the highest numbers of international schools, the UAE offers plenty of opportunity to live and work. Read Sarah's views on her move to the UAE below.
The one-way ticket to Dubai was booked as I left London in search of a new adventure. Having worked in a west London secondary school for eight years, a trip to Abu Dhabi to visit a friend, who was teaching in an international school, had sparked an interest in the culture of the Middle East. I remember on that visit during the February half-term, as I was paddling in the Arabian sea at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche area, thinking how nice it would be to be able to do this every winter. The spark was ignited, and the move was made. That was eight years ago and I have not found a reason to leave yet!
Living and working abroad has been life-changing. The United Arab Emirates is a popular destination for teachers from many parts of the world, and when you live here you see why.
I have held several teaching posts in the UAE, both in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I have worked in various educational settings and developed my skills set hugely. My interest in Early Years took me to work in private nurseries in Dubai, and I then made the return to secondary teaching in Abu Dhabi. People often ask me whether I prefer Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Both cities offer a different experience, with Dubai growing at a faster pace and housing a more international community, schools are diverse and enable you to experience and learn about countries and cultures from all around the world. In Abu Dhabi, you are more likely to work with local children and their families which gives an insight into the rich culture of the country, however, much depends upon the school you work in.
There are benefits a-plenty when working in schools in the UAE. As a relatively young country, the UAE education system is new and exciting, and UK and Irish trained teachers are in demand to offer their skills and expertise in English language-based curricula schools. Teachers are afforded a range of opportunities within schools, and many look for experienced teachers to take on management and leadership roles. It is easy to develop new skills whether it be teaching out-with your subject area or year group, taking a lead on an educational initiative or developing school policies, to name a few examples.
Schools in the UAE offer an attractive package by providing a furnished apartment (often with swimming pool and gym) and flight allowance. Packages can be excellent for families, with schools offering free and subsidised school places for teachers’ children. The UAE is an attractive place for families as it is safe, clean and offers many family-orientated activities.
Teaching in the UAE offers the work-life balance that many in Britain are looking for. Relaxation and balance are easily attainable with all-year sun and beautiful sandy beaches on your door-step. Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer the most luxurious hotels for weekend breaks and staycations. Sporting activities, meet-up groups, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, spa retreats, theatre shows and trips to the desert are just some of the options available for those who wish to enjoy the relaxed way of life in the country.
The opportunities to meet new people, gain new skills in the classroom and learn about the culture and heritage of the country make teaching in the UAE a fruitful experience.