How much can I earn teaching English in Qatar?

Qatar is a country that has blossomed from a largely unknown stretch of desert into a popular international destination in just a few decades. This rapid growth has attracted large numbers of foreign workers who now make up around 90% of the population. Qatar is a safe, modern, comfortable place to live and work which ensures it is increasingly popular with ESL teachers.

What are TESOL salaries in Qatar?

As is the norm throughout much of the Middle East, Qatar offers teachers the chance to earn a very competitive salary. Tax-free monthly earnings of around $2,000 to $4,000 are typical, depending on your previous classroom experience and your teaching qualifications. Most of the best jobs will also include a healthy benefit package that includes return flights from your home country, free housing, and full medical cover. ESL jobs are generally organised in advance before you leave home, so you are able to apply for multiple jobs and then pick the one that suits you best.

Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Qatar?

Those with a teaching degree should be able to apply for jobs in international schools which generally pay the best salaries. However, these are small in number so most ESL teachers find work in language schools. These schools are aimed at local people of all ages who are looking to improve their English and non-English speaking expats who require English language skills for work or even social reasons. Although language schools usually pay less than international schools, they still offer good salaries and a degree of flexibility when it comes to working hours. Vocational colleges are another popular option for foreign teachers, as is private tutoring which can be quite lucrative if you manage to build up a regular list of clients. The capital city of Doha is home to the majority of jobs in Qatar.

What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Qatar?

Most teachers are able to secure a job in Qatar from within their home country. Many positions are advertised online and it is common for interviews to be conducted by phone or webcam. As it can take some time to sort out an entry visa, it is best to start applying for jobs at least six months before you want to leave for Qatar. To complete the visa application process you will require a variety of paperwork that will probably include academic transcripts, a criminal background check, a medical exam, and an HIV test. First-time teachers generally find it hard to secure a job in Qatar as the market is very competitive. The majority of jobs will ask for native English speakers with a degree, TESOL certification, and one or two years of previous teaching experience.

What is the cost of living for English teachers in Qatar?

Teachers should have little problem living comfortably and also saving a good amount of their pay while working in Qatar. Tax-free salaries mean you get to keep everything that you earn and extra benefits such as free housing go a long way to reducing your outgoings. Utility bills and groceries can be quite expensive, but considering the lack of rental costs this is not much of a problem for most teachers. The average monthly spend in Qatar is in the region of $800 to $2,000, which should allow you to save at least $1,000 every month.