Although countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar often hog the limelight when it comes to teaching English in the Middle East, Oman is another that you should certainly consider. With thousands of kilometers of pristine coastline, a wide expanse of desert and mountain ranges to explore, and a more laid-back atmosphere than many of its neighbors, there is much to recommend about Oman. The people are warm and friendly and there are plenty of well paid jobs waiting to be filled.
What are TEFL salaries in Oman?
If you are a fully qualified teacher working in a local school you can expect to earn around $2,000 to $3,000 USD per month, tax-free. TEFL qualified teachers generally start on around $1,000 to $2,000 per month depending on the employer and your level of experience. Many jobs in Oman also include free housing which makes a huge difference to the amount you can save from your salary each month. As the cost of living is lower than many other countries in the region, teachers in Oman typically have a very good standard of living.
Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Oman?
In the capital city, Muscat, there are several kindergartens that cater to western expat families in particular. These jobs are highly sought after as the pay is good and the working conditions are very favourable. Private international schools offering western curriculums are also very popular for much the same reasons. However, these jobs are small in number and the requirements are often very high for applicants.
Government run elementary and secondary schools offer a large number of positions, as do private language schools and privately run elementary and secondary schools. Other options include universities and tertiary training institutes. Most positions in Oman require a degree, although some schools at the lower end of the pay scale will accept a TEFL or TESOL certificate if you have some previous experience. Generally speaking, the more qualifications and experience you have, the wider the choice of jobs and the higher your earning potential.
What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Oman?
Most employers advertise their vacancies online either directly or via recruitment agencies. A quick online search will provide plenty of options for you to consider. In most cases, the process will begin with a Skype or phone interview to assess your suitability and you might also be set some online quizzes or tests. As it can be a long process to get visas and other documentation sorted, it is best to start applying for jobs at least six months before your intended leaving date. The majority of jobs are located in and around the capital city, Muscat, although Bawshar and Salalah also have a smaller number of options. It is worth noting that most teaching jobs specify that only native English speakers are eligible.
What is the cost of living for English teachers in Oman?
The cost of living in Oman is significantly less than some of the more flashy countries in the region. As salaries are tax free and many jobs also include extra benefits such as free housing and healthcare, most teachers can live a very good quality of life. Without trying terribly hard, you should be able to save a good chunk of your earnings each month and still afford to explore the country and enjoy all that it has to offer.
