Teach English in Saudi Arabia the Complete Guide for TEFL Teachers | Reviewed August 2023

TEFL jobs in Saudi Arabia

Living costs Key facts FAQ’s Student Story TEFL jobs in Saudi Arabia

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) career possibilities in Saudi Arabia include a variety of positions in a variety of educational settings. The need for English language education in Saudi Arabia provides a variety of TEFL work opportunities. Here are some examples of frequent TEFL jobs in Saudi Arabia:

Language Schools and Institutes: Private language schools and institutes provide a wide range of English language courses for students of all ages. TEFL instructors may instruct in general English, business English, exam preparation (such as IELTS or TOEFL), or conversation lessons.
foreign Schools: Saudi Arabia has a variety of foreign schools that offer English education based on international curricula. TEFL teachers may be recruited to teach English language classes or other English-related subjects.
Universities and colleges in Saudi Arabia frequently hire English teachers for English language programs, English literature courses, academic writing, and non-native speaker communication skills seminars.
Government Schools: English teachers may find work in government schools teaching English to pupils of various levels.
Corporate English Training: Many Saudi firms and organizations seek English training for their personnel in order to strengthen corporate communication abilities. Corporate training sessions could be led by TEFL teachers.

LIVING COSTS

The culture of Saudi Arabia is heavily founded in Islamic traditions and beliefs. The country adheres to a traditional view of Islam, and religious activities are deeply embedded in daily life. Islamic etiquette governs social interactions and behaviors. The country is also noted for its warmth and feeling of community.

Saudi Arabia’s official religion is Islam, and the kingdom is home to two of Islam’s holiest places, Mecca and Medina. Islam is entwined with many areas of daily life, such as dress codes, prayer times, and dietary restrictions.

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia varies based on where you live, your lifestyle, and your spending patterns. While government subsidies make some goods and services more accessible, others may be more expensive. Housing costs, particularly in major cities, can be high.

To obtain the most up-to-date cost of living figures, we use the world’s biggest cost of living comparison website, Numbio.com.

Accommodation: €350
Utilities: €100
Health insurance: N/A
Monthly transport pass: €25
Basic dinner out for two: €45
Cappuccino in an ex-pat area: €3.50
A beer in a pub: €1.60
1 litre of milk: €1.50

TEFL jobs in Saudi Arabia: KEY POINTS

SALARY

€1,000 to €3,000

EDUCATION

BA degree required

MAIN JOB TYPES

Private schools, public schools, private tutoring, volunteering projects

TEFL CERTIFICATION NEEDED

At least a 180-hour TEFL qualification

KEY FACTS

Popular locations for TEFL jobs: Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's main city, Riyadh, has a plethora of TEFL work prospects. It is home to language schools, foreign schools, universities, and an increasing number of English language learners. Jeddah has a varied population and a high demand for English language education as a major business hub and port city. TEFL opportunities may be available at language schools, international schools, and private institutions. Dammam and Al Khobar are two cities in the Eastern Province that are well-known for their oil sector and commercial activities. Language schools, international schools, and colleges may have TEFL opportunities available.
English teacher salaries in Saudi Arabia : English teachers at private language schools and institutes may make a monthly salary of €1,000 to €3,000 or more, based on factors such as qualifications, experience, and amount of teaching hours.
TEFL qualification requirements: At least a 180-hour TEFL qualification
Prerequisite university degree: It is generally required to have a bachelor's degree in order to obtain a work visa to teach English in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia's regulations for foreign workers, including English teachers, often mandate that applicants have a university degree as part of the visa application process.
Term times: The academic year in Saudi Arabia is divided into three terms: the first term, the second term, and the summer break. The actual dates for each term vary slightly based on the educational institution and grade level, however here is a broad summary of Saudi Arabia's school term times: First semester (autumn semester): It usually begins in late August or early September. It will remain on display until mid-December. There will be a short mid-term break. Second semester (Spring semester): It usually begins in early January. It will last until mid-April. There will be a mid-term break. Summer Vacation: Usually begins around mid-April or early May. Summer vacation in Saudi Arabia is lengthier and can last two to three months.
Currency: Saudi Riyal
Language: Arabic
Teaching programmes: Teaching adults or children in private language schools as well as international schools or as a private tutor.
Age restrictions: None
Previous teaching experience: is desirable for many roles but not essential

Facts about Teach English in Saudi Arabia the Complete Guide for TEFL Teachers | Reviewed August 2023

LANGUAGE

Arabic

POPULATION

36 Million

TEFL JOB DEMAND

Mid

CURRENCY

Saudi Riyal

CAPITAL

Riyadh

OUR SAUDI ARABIA TEFL RATING

4.3

TEFL jobs in Saudi Arabia: FAQS

How much can I earn as an English teacher in Saudi Arabia?

English teachers at private language schools and institutes may make a monthly salary of €1,000 to €3,000 or more, based on factors such as qualifications, experience, and amount of teaching hours.

Is Saudi Arabia expensive to live in?

Saudi Arabia is thought to have a somewhat high cost of living in comparison to many other countries, though this varies based on your location within the country and your particular lifestyle choices.

Can I teach English in Saudi Arabia without a degree?

To obtain a work visa to teach English in Saudi Arabia, you must normally have a bachelor’s degree. As part of the visa application process, Saudi Arabia’s requirements for foreign workers, including English teachers, frequently require candidates to hold a university degree.