School Talk: UAE
Welcome to "School Talk: UAE," your go-to podcast for all things education in the United Arab Emirates.
Join us as we sit down with teachers, experts, and parents to explore schools across the UAE.
Each episode provides valuable insights and perspectives from those directly involved in shaping the educational experience.
Whether you're a parent, an educator, or simply curious about the state of education in the UAE, "School Talk: UAE" is your window into the dynamic world of learning in this region.
School Talk: UAE
Breaking Down Teacher Salaries in Dubai
Ever wondered what teachers in Dubai actually earn? In this revealing episode, I pull back the curtain on my own experience teaching in the UAE from 2015-2020, sharing the exact figures from my first international teaching position.
My monthly salary seemed straightforward on paper, but the reality was more complex. I break down how this was split between a basic salary and allowance, plus a leadership stipend, and why this division matters crucially for your end-of-service benefits. The shocking truth? After five years of service, my gratuity payment was just ***** dirhams – a figure that surprises many teachers who don't understand how these calculations work.
Beyond the salary, I explore the full expat package: school-provided accommodation, annual flight allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, and potential school places for children. When added together, the package value reached much more than my monthly take home – though much of this never actually hit my bank account. I also discuss how the UAE education landscape has shifted since 2020, with rising rents and inflation outpacing salary increases, creating new challenges for today's international teachers.
Whether you're considering teaching abroad or simply curious about education compensation structures, this transparent look at real numbers provides valuable insights beyond what recruitment fairs might tell you. Listen for practical advice on what questions to ask when negotiating your package and how to evaluate the true value of international teaching offers in today's market. Share this episode with anyone contemplating the move to international education – the information could save them from costly misconceptions about teaching abroad.