How to Begin Teaching in Kuwait

An Oasis Point for those Traversing the Desert

Most teachers come to Kuwait to earn money.

Kuwait is situated on the northwestern shores of the Persian Gulf. Although one of the smallest countries in the region, it is also one of the richest due to the ample oilfields. It has a hot desert climate, but since ancient times it has been an oasis point for those traversing the desert of the region. The ultra-modern urban lifestyle of the country contrasts with the historical and religious sites located in the desert. Some areas of Kuwait have not been developed for tourism. Failaka Island is one of these. However, it is well worth a visit as it has archaeological sites dating from the Bronze Age. Kuwait City, on the other hand, has chic restaurants, marinas, beach resorts and all-important sea breezes to combat the heat. There are also high-end shopping complexes. In the centre of Kuwait City it is possible to wander the Souqs (old shopping complexes). Within the Souqs, there are food halls, gold and pearl markets and areas where Bedouin women sell their souvenirs and wares.

As in some other Muslim countries in this region, alcohol is prohibited. Kuwaitis enjoy spending a meal together among friends and family. Once again, foreign women need to wear modest dress, which means covering shoulders, arms, knees and the cleavage area. However, behind closed doors in expat compounds or at private parties, there is more freedom. Kuwaitis are not permitted to join these parties under the current law.

Teaching Opportunities

Most teachers come to Kuwait to earn money. There are excellent jobs for those who have a 120-hour TEFL certificate and some experience. Generally, however, Kuwaiti employers prefer to employ males, but there are a few exceptions to this rule. The main EFL jobs are situated in Kuwait City, Al Jarah, Al Walfrah and Mina Al Ahmadi. Due to the large oil and financial industries of Kuwait, the main EFL sector in demand is business English. Kuwaitis employ native speakers and jobs are generally advertised on online forums, in the Guardian or in the Times Educational Supplement in the UK. Most jobs require you to teach 20-25 hours a week. The cost of living is high, but so are the salaries. These also come with great benefit packages such as accommodation, flights, health insurance and visa assistance. Visas are required before arriving in the country due to the strict immigration laws.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement	Typical Contract Length	Peak Hiring Seasons	Visa Info	Typical Students	Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency	Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

BA/BS required

12 – 24 months

July - August

Work visa in advance

Business professionals, children

200 – 350 KWD (435 – 760 GBP)

400 – 1,000 KWD (865 – 2,160 GBP).

Degree Requirement

BA/BS required

Typical Contract Length

12 – 24 months

Peak Hiring Seasons

July - August

Visa Info

Work visa in advance

Typical Students

Business professionals, children

Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency

200 – 350 KWD (435 – 760 GBP)

Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

400 – 1,000 KWD (865 – 2,160 GBP).

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