DESTINATION OF THE MONTH

Dubai

What better place to start your EFL career than the cosmopolitan business hub of Dubai? Located on the Persian Gulf, Dubai is one of the largest of seven Emirates which make up the Federation of the United Arab Emirates.

A bit about Dubai:

The discovery of oil propelled Dubai into becoming one of the richest cities in the world. Nowadays, the economy is reliant on their booming tourist industry which attracts millions of visitors every year. Dubai has become synonymous with luxury, and is now home to some of the largest, and most lavish, shopping malls in the world. June signals the start of Dubai’s summer surprises, a ten week festival of entertainment, shows, and most of all shopping! The 70 or more shopping malls slash their prices in a bid to attract customers, and millions of tourists across the world pay them a visit in search of a bargain.

Perhaps the most iconic sight of all is the Burj al Arab, a sail shaped 7 star hotel perched on an artificial island which has come to symbolise Dubai’s affluence.

A bit about working in Dubai:

This destination is a dream location to start your EFL career. As the most westernised of all the Emirates, you can enjoy more freedom than in other areas of the Middle East. Islamic dress is not compulsory here, unlike Saudi Arabia, but visitors should always be culturally sensitive, and respect local traditions. With a hot climate, great salaries, no income tax and plenty to keep you entertained in your spare time, Dubai is a fascinating place to live and work.

QUICK FACTS!

Population: Over 2m
Language: Arabic
Capital City: Dubai is one of seven Emirates, whose capital is Abu Dhabi
Religion: Islam
Climate: Hot, arid climate
EFL teacher’s salary (average): £1500-£2000

How do I find work in Dubai? Once you have completed your UK-TEFL course, you can apply directly to schools in Dubai. Due to the immense reliance on the tourist industry, learning English is very popular. It is usually best to arrange employment with a school or university in advance, rather than searching for employment once you are there. Many employers look for teachers who also have a degree, and a knowledge of business English is an advantage due to Dubai’s position as a major trade centre in the world.
Where do EFL teachers live? Many employers include free accommodation with a position.
Do I need to speak Arabic? You do not need to speak Arabic, as English is widely recognised.
What is the food like?
The traditional Arabic food is well worth trying, and can be found in Lebanese, Iranian and Moroccan restaurants.
What will I do in the evenings, on days off or on my holidays? There is plenty for you to do in your spare time. Indulge in some serious retail therapy with your hard-earned cash, relax on the beach or sample the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants. You can also take a boat trip or head off on a desert safari too.
How much does it cost to fly to Dubai from the UK? From as little as £300
Is Dubai safe? Dubai is very safe, but it is advisable to take care when choosing an employer to ensure they are a reputable organisation. Dubai is a modest place where visitors are expected to integrate and conform to local culture. The punishments are severe for anyone disregarding the law, so you should take care whilst you are there.

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