Job Discussion Forums

[akolsky1]

I want to teach in the Mid-East, but want to find a country where there would be both a good mix cultural experience and at the same time have the modernity element so I could make some substantial money at this later stage of my life. I have taught in the US public school system and also taught English in Eastern Europe in the early 90's when TEFL credentials were not mandatory. For example. I am thinking Oman would have a good mix and so would Cairo, but the pay in Eygpt would not be as much? And with Saudia Arabia, I hear Westerners live on compounds and that separated life would not interest me. Does anyone have suggestions and/or info on countries that would offer substantial pay and also have a rich culture to learn about and live within--the best of both worlds?
Many thanks,
Amy

[Never Ceased To Be Amazed]

Come, come, come, if you've got a Master's...Master's +...to the UAE!

NCTBA

[johnslat]

Dear NCTBA,
Um, akolsky1 did mention " cultural experience."

Regards,
John

[Never Ceased To Be Amazed]

Dearest, John:

Admittedly, I DID focus on the lower part of the post, but a more richer "cultural experience"...outside Asia, would be harder to achieve...and I'm sure you'll agree. My point, which I think has been well-researched by the poster (an astute one, I might add) is that, if you want a more satisfying "cultural experience"...unbound...come to the UAE...if, and only if, you have a Masters...Masters +.

That being said, I take your point.

NCTBA

[veiledsentiments]

[Cleopatra]

Unfortunately, I'd have to agree with VS on this one.

As far as teaching ESL is concerned, the ME can be divided into two broad categories: The oil-rich Gulf countries where well-qualified teachers can earn good money, but where there is little or no local culture to speak of (at least not one which is accessible to most foreigners). Then there are countries like Egypt or Syria, where there are great opportunities to learn Arabic, make local friends and become involved in a fascinating culture and society - but the pay, for the most part, is lousy.

As VS says, Oman might be the best compromise destination: the pay is reasonable (if not as high as in the oil sheikhdoms) and, from what I've heard, the culture is interesting and fairly accessible.

[akolsky1]

Thanks so much for all this info. I really appreciate your insights as I never have set foot in the Mid East before. It is a cumbersome process--trying to decide where to teach and then the whole application process. But I am hopeful. Thanks for your help!

[sheikh radlinrol]

I only have a total of 8 years' ME experience in 2 countries. However, I did meet and speak to umpteen people with ample ME experience.
The worst places are Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, although you might (MIGHT) earn more. Bahrain is nice, as is the UAE. Oman is easily the nicest place in the Gulf (I've never been, I'd like to go and I was told by a man from one of the Maghreb countries that it's the only place in the Gulf with identity and culture.
But what is the ME? Egypt and Turkey are fascinating lands. Israel is the most advanced but you won't make much.
If you're strapped for cash, Saudi is bearable if you have hobbies and can find ways of killing time.

[007]

[veiledsentiments]

Have you been to Oman double zero? If you had, you wouldn't ask that question...

But you're likely just trying to start something... as usual.

VS

[007]

How come Oman is the only place in the Gulf with identity and culture!
What about the other places, like the Magic Kingdom and Yemen, do they not have an identity?

I want sheikh Zaparito to explain what he meant by 'identity'?

[veiledsentiments]

Then... send him a PM ask him...

VS

[sheikh radlinrol]

Come on, Uncle Bond.
All I said was that I met a gentleman from one of the Maghreb countries. He was an employee of the UN in Kuwait. HE told ME that Oman was the nicest country in the Gulf and the only one with any ''national identity''. His words, not mine. I've met others who say the same.

[The_Prodiigy]

[The_Prodiigy]