Dubai, a city renowned for its opulent lifestyle and rapid development, has become a popular destination for international teachers. The city’s ambition to become a global education hub has led to a surge in demand for qualified educators from around the world. However, while the prospect of working in Dubai may seem attractive, there are a number of issues that international teachers often face. In this blog post, we will explore five common examples of these issues.
1. Cultural Differences
Adapting to a New Culture
One of the first challenges that international teachers face when moving to Dubai is adapting to a new culture. The UAE, while modern and progressive in many ways, still holds strong to its traditional values and customs. This can sometimes lead to a culture shock for teachers who are not familiar with the local customs and etiquette.
For example, the concept of ‘wasta’, which loosely translates to ‘influence’ or ‘clout’, is deeply ingrained in Emirati society. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or conflicts in the workplace, as decisions are often made based on relationships and connections rather than merit. Understanding and navigating these cultural nuances can be a steep learning curve for many international teachers.
Teaching in a Multicultural Classroom
Another aspect of cultural differences is the multicultural nature of classrooms in Dubai. With students from all over the world, teachers often have to adapt their teaching methods to cater to a diverse range of cultural backgrounds and learning styles. This can be a challenging task, especially for those who are used to a more homogeneous classroom environment.
For instance, some cultures may place a greater emphasis on rote learning, while others may encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Balancing these different approaches and ensuring that all students are engaged and learning effectively can be a complex task for international teachers.
2. High Cost of Living
Accommodation Expenses
Dubai is known for its high standard of living, but this also comes with a high cost. Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for international teachers. While some schools offer housing allowances or even provide accommodation, these are often not sufficient to cover the high rents in the city.
For example, a one-bedroom apartment in a popular expat area like Dubai Marina can easily cost upwards of AED 60,000 per year. This can eat up a significant portion of a teacher’s salary, leaving little for other expenses.
Other Living Costs
Beyond accommodation, other living costs in Dubai can also be high. This includes groceries, dining out, transportation, and leisure activities. While salaries for international teachers in Dubai can be attractive, it’s important to factor in these living costs when considering a move to the city.
For instance, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around AED 50 per person, while a monthly public transport pass is around AED 350. These costs can quickly add up, making it difficult for teachers to save money or enjoy the lifestyle that Dubai is famous for.
3. Workload and Stress
High Expectations
The high standards of education in Dubai come with high expectations for teachers. Schools often expect teachers to deliver top-notch lessons, achieve excellent exam results, and contribute to extracurricular activities. This can lead to a heavy workload and high levels of stress.
For example, many international teachers report working long hours, often beyond the regular school day, to prepare lessons, mark assignments, and attend meetings. This can lead to burnout and negatively affect their overall job satisfaction.
Lack of Support
Another issue related to workload and stress is the lack of support for teachers. Despite the demanding nature of the job, many teachers feel that they do not receive adequate support from their schools. This can range from a lack of resources and training to a lack of emotional support and understanding from management.
For instance, some teachers report feeling isolated and unsupported, particularly when dealing with difficult situations such as student behaviour issues or conflicts with parents. This lack of support can exacerbate the stress and pressure that teachers already face.
4. Contractual Issues
Unclear Contracts
One of the common issues faced by international teachers in Dubai is unclear or misleading contracts. Some teachers report being promised certain benefits or conditions during the recruitment process, only to find that these are not reflected in their actual contract.
For example, a teacher may be promised a certain salary or housing allowance, but find that the actual amount in their contract is lower. This can lead to feelings of frustration and mistrust, and can negatively impact a teacher’s experience in Dubai.
Contract Changes
Another contractual issue is changes to contracts after they have been signed. Some teachers report that their schools have changed the terms of their contracts after they have arrived in Dubai, often to the teacher’s disadvantage.
For instance, a school may change a teacher’s working hours, responsibilities, or benefits without their consent. This can create a sense of instability and uncertainty, and can make it difficult for teachers to plan their lives and finances.
5. Visa Issues
Dependence on Employer
In the UAE, a person’s visa status is often tied to their employer. This means that if a teacher loses their job or decides to leave their school, they may also lose their visa. This can create a sense of insecurity and dependence on the employer, which can be stressful for many teachers.
For example, if a teacher decides to resign from their job, they may have to leave the country within a short period of time unless they can find another job or secure a different type of visa. This can put a lot of pressure on teachers and limit their freedom and flexibility.
Visa Processing Delays
Another visa-related issue is delays in visa processing. The process of obtaining a work visa in the UAE can be complex and time-consuming, and delays are not uncommon. This can create uncertainty and stress for teachers, particularly if they are waiting to start their job or bring their family to Dubai.
For instance, a teacher may be told that their visa will be processed in a few weeks, but end up waiting several months. This can lead to financial stress and disruption to their plans.
In conclusion, while Dubai offers many opportunities for international teachers, it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges and issues. By understanding these issues and preparing for them, teachers can make an informed decision about whether teaching in Dubai is the right choice for them.
Overcome International Teaching Challenges with iQTS
Understanding the hurdles of teaching abroad in Dubai is just the beginning. If you’re ready to enhance your qualifications, increase your chances for career advancement, and connect with a global network of educators, The IQTS at UWE is here to support your journey. Our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme is specifically designed to address the challenges faced by international teachers. With our programme, you’ll be equipped with the necessary skills to adapt to international curricula, meet stringent qualification requirements, and significantly improve your professional development. Don’t let barriers hold you back. Make Your Next Step with the iQTS programme and transform your teaching career today.