Find Us On:
Working for international recruitment agencies and teaching English in your early twenties has become a rite of passage for Canadian youth. It's the opportunity to experience a different culture, see a new part of the world, make business contacts with the recruitment agency and, in general, broaden your horizons. When working with international recruitment agencies, there's no limit to the places you can teach. Never has there been such a demand for teachers in the United Arab Emirates though. If you're considering speaking with a recruitment agency about teaching in the UAE, here are a few things you should know about it:
International recruitment agencies are sending more teachers to the UAE than ever
International recruitment agencies are always looking for teachers, but never has there been such a demand from one particular place. Pair a qualified English teacher with a recruitment agency and there should have no trouble finding a job in the UAE.
You're in for a bit of a culture shock
Every country, territory, nation and even city has their own set of social norms that seem normal to the residents, but a tad strange to outsiders. In North America, you might see a few women on the street wearing a niqab, whereas in the UAE you'll see a few women not wearing a niqab. Your recruitment agency will give you some background information and preparation for this. Though it's important to do your own research and not rely on the recruitment agency. Differences in cultural customs will inevitably come up in class, so make sure you're prepared.
It's an incredibly fun country
The UAE is experiencing a period of extreme growth and prosperity that makes it an exciting tourist destination. International recruitment agencies are sending teachers there in droves not just because of the shortage, but there's also a lot of fun things to see, do and eat! And if you're someone that likes warm weather, the UAE is the place to be. Boasting temperatures of 26˚ celcius during the winter and mid 40's during the summer, your recruitment agency should throw in some SPF 40 before you head off.
There are plenty of other things to keep in mind which are too lengthy to mention here, but these are some of the big ones that often get overlooked. A recruitment agency is constantly on the lookout for qualified and engaged teachers that are also interested in a new experience. Whether you're fresh out of college looking for a new experience, or in your early retirement and want to see the world, the UAE is the place to be for English teachers.