How Much Can You Earn Teaching in the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a highly attractive destination for teachers seeking well-paid career opportunities abroad.

With high salaries, tax-free income, and a growing demand for qualified educators, the UAE offers an enticing option for both experienced teachers and newcomers to the profession.

But how much can you actually earn teaching in the UAE? And how can a qualification like the PGCEi (Postgraduate Certificate in Education International) help you increase your earning potential?

This article will provide an overview of salary expectations, factors affecting pay, and how upgrading your qualifications can help you earn more.

Average Salaries for Teachers in the UAE

Teacher salaries in the UAE vary significantly based on factors such as experience, qualifications, the type of school, and the emirate in which you work. According to Teach Away, a recruitment platform for international teachers, typical salaries range as follows:

• Primary School Teachers: AED 12,000–16,000 per month (~£2,620–£3,490 / €3,020–€4,030)
• Secondary School Teachers: AED 14,000–21,000 per month (~£3,060–£4,590 / €3,520–€5,290)
• Experienced Teachers and Senior Leaders: AED 18,000–30,000 per month (~£3,930–£6,540 / €4,530–€7,550)
• Heads of Department or Principals: AED 30,000–50,000 per month (~£6,540–£10,900 / €7,550–€12,580)

These figures do not include additional benefits such as housing allowances, bonuses, health insurance, and annual airfares, which can further enhance your total compensation package.

Factors Influencing Teacher Salaries in the UAE

Several key factors can impact how much you can earn as a teacher in the UAE:

1. Teaching Experience: As with most professions, more experienced teachers command higher salaries. Those with over five years of teaching experience often sit at the higher end of the pay scale.

2. Qualifications: Advanced qualifications, such as the PGCEi or a Master’s degree, can increase your earning potential. Schools tend to offer higher salaries to teachers with specialised training or those qualified for leadership roles.

3. School Type: International schools, particularly those offering British or American curricula, tend to pay more than local schools. These schools serve expatriate families and affluent local communities, which means they have larger budgets for hiring well-qualified educators.

4. Location: Salaries differ between emirates. Teachers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi generally earn more than those in Sharjah or Ras Al Khaimah, where the cost of living is lower.

5. Subject Specialisation: Teachers with expertise in high-demand subjects like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) or English as a Second Language (ESL) can often negotiate higher salaries, as these subjects are in particularly high demand.

How Upskilling with a PGCEi Can Boost Your Earnings

While experience is essential, upgrading your qualifications can significantly impact your salary and career progression. The PGCEi (Postgraduate Certificate in Education International) is designed for teachers looking to enhance their skills and expertise without committing to a full teaching degree.

Advantages of a PGCEi in the UAE

1. Higher Salaries: Teachers with advanced qualifications like the PGCEi may earn higher starting salaries. Many international schools actively seek candidates with specialised qualifications, particularly for leadership roles.

2. International Recognition: The PGCEi is a globally recognised qualification, giving you the flexibility to teach in multiple countries, not just the UAE. This makes it a valuable long-term investment in your teaching career.

3. Career Progression: A PGCEi can help to pave the way to senior roles such as Head of Department or Principal, where salaries can exceed AED 30,000 per month (~£6,540 / €7,550).

4. Professional Development and Job Security: Schools appreciate teachers who are committed to professional development. By completing a PGCEi, you demonstrate dedication to your craft, which can lead to increased job security and promotional opportunities.

Teaching in the UAE: A Competitive Landscape

Although the UAE offers excellent financial rewards, the competition for teaching roles is strong, particularly in sought-after cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Schools prefer candidates with strong experience and qualifications, making it essential to stand out. By upgrading to a PGCEi, you give yourself a competitive edge, demonstrating both skill and commitment.

Additionally, cultural adaptability is key. The UAE is home to a diverse, multicultural population, and schools highly value teachers who can engage with students from various cultural backgrounds.

Additional Benefits of Teaching in the UAE

In addition to attractive salaries, teaching in the UAE offers several other significant benefits:

• Tax-Free Income: One of the main draws of teaching in the UAE is that your income is tax-free, allowing you to take home more of what you earn.

• Housing Allowance: Most schools offer free or subsidised accommodation, which can significantly reduce your cost of living.

• Health Insurance: Schools generally provide comprehensive health insurance, a substantial benefit given the cost of healthcare in the UAE.

• Annual Airfare: Many schools provide return flights to your home country each year, making it easier and more affordable to visit family and friends.

Conclusion

Teaching in the UAE presents a fantastic opportunity for educators to earn attractive salaries, with compensation ranging from AED 12,000 to AED 50,000 per month. When combined with tax-free income and generous benefits, it’s clear why the UAE remains a popular destination for teachers from around the world.

However, to maximise your earning potential, it’s crucial to stand out in a competitive market. Upskilling with a PGCEi not only enhances your teaching abilities but can also lead to higher salaries and better career progression. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or just starting out, investing in a PGCEi can help you achieve your financial and professional goals in the UAE.

If you’re considering teaching in the UAE, now may be the ideal time to invest in your future with a PGCEi qualification and unlock the best opportunities this dynamic region has to offer.

Find Out More

Portobello Institute delivers a PGCEi qualification that is awarded by Liverpool John Moore's University (LJMU). This means you can gain an internationally recognised UK qualification through an Irish education provider, delivered entirely online and around your current work schedule. 

If you are interested in the PGCEi you can speak with our admissions advisor, Hannah Meade, by booking a consultation call here, email hannah.meade@portobelloinstitute.com or call 01 892 0029.