Teaching Beyond Borders: Dubai

I often get asked questions about teaching in Dubai, so I have put together this post to answer some of the most common ones. Whether you’re thinking about making the move or just curious about what teaching here is like, I hope this helps!

Can you introduce yourself and provide some background about your teaching experience?

My name is Nadine, and I’m a Cavan girl based in Dubai. I moved here when I was 26 and have just turned 30, so I’m now in my fourth year of teaching in the UAE. I came here for 2 years, but didn't we all? (!!)

I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities (English & Geography) at St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, followed by a Masters in Primary Education from St. Patrick’s College, DCU. Before moving to Dubai, I taught for two years in Ireland.

Teaching abroad wasn’t always on my radar, but after working so hard throughout my Master’s, I wanted to try international teaching before settling at home. I had never visited Dubai before moving, which sounds wild, but I’ve always had a natural curiosity to learn more about education systems both at home in Ireland and around the world. That curiosity has led to my passion project, Over a Cuppa Tea, and my work on social media!

Can you teach in Dubai with any degree or is a teaching degree needed?

To work as a teacher in Dubai, you must have a recognised teaching qualification. However, some companies, like Sabis, allow individuals to teach while completing a teaching qualification.

One common misconception is that you need a TEFL qualification, you don’t! A TEFL qualification is only necessary if you’re applying for roles as an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, not for regular classroom teaching.

What steps did you take to secure a teaching position in Dubai?

I was lucky as my friend from Cavan handed my CV into her school for me. I had applied to one or two schools through TES but I didn’t hear back. Looking back, I made some mistakes in my applications. TES can be competitive as schools receive a huge volume of CVs. Timing is crucial, and sometimes, getting noticed comes down to luck as well.

Would you recommend completing Droichead before moving abroad to teach or travelling?

If you plan on returning to teach in Ireland, yes. Completing Droichead means you won’t have to worry about it when you come back, and it can impact your years of experience recognition for salary purposes.

That being said, plenty of teachers move abroad without completing it first. It depends on your long-term plans. Also, if you don't mind returning to Ireland after a number of years teaching abroad to complete your Droichead, then that great! It was just not something I wanted on my back personally.

What was the visa process like for you?

This was very straightforward as your school will take care of this process for you once you handle the attestation and legalisation of your requested documents (Usually your degree, transcripts, birth certificate). Read my blog post on attesting your Irish degrees.

How do you obtain a driving licence in Dubai?

To get your UAE driving licence, you’ll need to visit the Al Manara Centre. The cost for me was 750 AED the first time I applied, so be prepared for that expense. You'll need to bring the following documents:

• Your Emirates ID (physical card and photocopy of both sides)

• Your passport (physical and photocopy)

• A printed copy of your VISA

• Your home country driver’s licence (physical card and photocopy)

  
  

Additionally, you'll need to complete an eye test, which can be done on-site at the centre. If you wear glasses, you can take the test with them, and they’ll note that on your licence.

What were your first impressions of Dubai?

I was amazed by how multicultural Dubai is. It’s an incredibly modern city, yet it has a rich culture and traditions woven into daily life.

Induction week was intense! It included:

• Meeting the senior and middle leadership teams

• IT setups (emails, school systems, equipment)

• Classroom setup and school tour

• Safeguarding, policy, and curriculum training

• Meeting my teaching assistant and team

• First aid training and data tracking workshops

• Team bonding activities

  
  

It was a whirlwind of information, but it helped me settle in quickly!

What is the typical school day like for a teacher in Dubai?

The school week runs Monday to Friday, with teachers starting at 7:15 AM. Registration for students is at 7:45 AM, and lessons begin at 8:00 AM.

Children have specialist teachers for Islamic education, Arabic, music, PE, and outdoor education, with schedules varying by school and year group. Teachers typically have free periods for planning, meetings, and sometimes covering absent teachers, as there is no substitute teacher programme like in Ireland.

Students finish at 3:00 PM, with teachers usually staying until 4:00 PM for after-school activities, CPD, or admin. On Fridays, schools have a half-day, finishing at 12:00 PM, which is a nice bonus!

How do the classroom sizes and resources in Dubai compare to your experience in Ireland?

One of the biggest differences I noticed was the Key Stage and Phases system in British curriculum schools. In terms of 'people' as resources, schools in Dubai have large leadership teams and many classes in each year group. Class sizes can vary widely, but many international schools have smaller class sizes than in Ireland.

Resources are abundant, with most schools providing interactive whiteboards, iPads, and well-stocked libraries. There are also larger budgets for purchasing classroom resources. Unlike Ireland, most resources are bought for you through the school or you are reimbursed for your purchases. I'm sure this isn't always the case, of course!

What kind of curriculum do schools in Dubai follow?

Dubai has a diverse range of curricula, including:

• British Curriculum (EYFS, Key Stages 1–5)

• IB (International Baccalaureate)

• American Curriculum

• Indian Curriculum (CBSE, ICSE)

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The British Curriculum is the most common in international schools here.

What is the cost of living like in Dubai?

The cost of living in Dubai is higher than in Ireland in some areas, but lower in others.

Rent s usually covered or subsidised by schools, which is a big plus for expats. Eating out is quite affordable, though groceries can be very expensive, especially for imported goods. Taxis and the metro are affordable, but many expats prefer driving. Renting a car is a popular option, costing around €350 per month. The best part is you can return it during holidays, so you’re not paying for it all the time, and if it breaks down, the rental company handles it.

There’s so much to do in Dubai, and expats often feel the need to stay busy. I find myself spending more money than I would at home on entertainment, clothes, holidays, self-care and travel!

Can you describe your housing situation and the types of accommodations typically available to teachers?

Most schools provide accommodation or a housing allowance.

Teachers typically live in:

• Apartments (studio or 1-2 bed)

• Shared villas with other teachers

  
  

The quality depends on your school package, but accommodation is generally modern and comfortable. I have stayed in school accommodation but I prefer to take the allowance and live in a building seperate to the people I work with. If you are moving to Dubai alone, taking staff accommodation is definitely a better choice as you will meet friends and can car pool with colleagues!

What can you do for leisure and entertainment day to day in Dubai?

I don't know where to start and end with this answer! There’s something for everyone in Dubai. I am here now almost 4 years and I have only touched the surface with doing and seeing everything here! Brunches and dining out are hugely popular for expats, partcularly pool days and beach clubs. The shopping malls and souks are amazing! Hiking during the winter months is popular along with water sports and boat days. There are also lots of GAA and sports clubs here for those who like to engage in group exercise.

I recently purchased Privilee, which has been a game-changer! You pay a montly fee and have unlimited access to top-notch gyms, luxurious hotels and pools, and stunning beach clubs.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced while living and teaching in Dubai?

One of the hardest challenges has been missing family milestones and events. It’s been soul-crushing at times, and I still find myself grappling with the emotional impact of being far from home. It’s difficult knowing that you only live once and these moments only happen once. You can’t go back or make them up. That said, it's also been a reality check. Living in Dubai has shown me how hard it can be to adapt back to life in Ireland after experiencing the safety and energy Dubai offers, particularly for people my age.

Classroom management has also been a challenge, as many students have nannies and may be less independent than you would typically find in Ireland. This dynamic requires a different approach to instilling responsibility and promoting independence in the children I work with.

Another shock was the level of parental communication. Expect to engage with parents ten times morethan you would in Ireland. While this can be rewarding, it can also be demanding and time-consuming.

Lastly, working in an international school has its own set of challenges. Schools in Dubai are often data-heavy and admin-intensive, and the expectations can sometimes be high. I’m still learning how to balance the workload and keep up with the demands of the role.

What have been the most rewarding aspects of your teaching experience in Dubai?

• Professional growth: You learn so much from working in an international setting. I have absolutely soared up the career ladder in my mere 4 years of being here. I have already held a middle leadership role for 3 of my 4 years. That has been incredible and I have grown so much professionally since moving here.

• Financial benefits: Tax-free salary, flight allowances, and accommodation.

• Cultural experiences: Meeting people from all over the world and embracing new traditions.

• Of course, meeting friends here that will be my friends for life and seeing them reach some incredible milestones of their own like getting engaged, married and having kids!

• & meeting my other half. I better not leave that one out!

What essential items should teachers bring with them when moving to Dubai?

• Sunscreen and tan

• Tampons (they can be pricier here)

• Clothes (Zara/H&M are €20 more expensive!)

• Frylite (hard to find)

• GAA gear (if you play)

What advice would you give to someone considering teaching in Dubai?

1. Be prepared to implement strict classroom management from the start.

2. Go easy on yourself as it can be very overwhelming. Ask your colleagues for help and advice and don't just pretend you are okay if you are struggling. Everyone has been in the exact same boat at one stage of their journey so they can empathise and help you.

3. Prepare to communicate a lot with parents. You will communicate with parents ten times more than you would in Ireland.

4. The school will have an inducation week for staff before the children come back. This will help you settle in and set up your classroom.

5. International school systems are extremely different to Irish schools so ask any questions you have. Bring a notebook as you will undoubtedly hear a lot of abbreviations that you may want to clarify with a colleague afterwards or keep note of.

Where can readers find out more information about teaching in Dubai that you would recommend?

• Facebook pages such as Irish Teachers in the UAE and Teachers in the UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah).

• Check out my Padlet Apps and Websites for New Teachers to Dubai

• Schools Compared reviews schools here so you can browse their articles.

• My Instagram (@nadineelyons) and website, Over a Cuppa Tea!