Living and Working in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. For that reason, it is a hub for large companies, educational organizations, and arts and culture. The city boasts amazing architecture, beautiful beaches, large malls, theme parks, and extremely luxurious hotels.

Teachers that live in Abu Dhabi can enjoy a great work/life balance between teaching in extremely diverse and modern international schools and then heading to a concert to watch an international musician or even visit a theme park over the weekend! Many teachers join fitness gyms, sports teams, dance lessons, water sports, and other interest clubs to easily meet other expats. There is a large community of expats living in the UAE, and socializing becomes easier when you’re having fun!

Teaching Benefits

When you choose to teach in Abu Dhabi you are choosing a wealth of benefits along with teaching in an excellent location. Most international schools offer:

  • Housing
  • Medical Benefits
  • Annual Return Flights to your home country
  • Tuition for school-aged children
  • A Tax-Free Salary
  • End-of-Contract Bonus

Local Culture

The local religion is Islam, though other religions are practiced as well. Local emirates first language is Arabic, though English is widely spoken. The country itself has over 8 million Expats living there, meaning the most common language spoken is English.

Getting Paid (How often, currency, sending money home)

Most schools in Abu Dhabi will offer automated bank payments directly into your local bank account. The normal pay schedule is once per month. You will be paid in dirhams (AED) currency which is linked to the US dollar.