Teach English in Kuwait

Teaching English in Kuwait can be a highly rewarding experience for many reasons. 

Kuwait is known for its stable and prosperous economy, meaning the country has always been a hotbed for TEFL teaching jobs. 

Kuwait is a country with a rich cultural heritage, making it a fascinating place to live and work. 

There are plenty of opportunities to explore the country, from its stunning beaches and deserts to its vibrant cities and cultural landmarks. Moreover, teaching English in Kuwait provides an opportunity to learn Arabic, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. 

Kuwait has historically always been a country with some of the best English teacher salaries in the world. And while other countries have caught up somewhat in the years since, the potential to make some serious money teaching in Kuwait is still there. 

Kuwait City

Kuwait’s theatrical capital

This is the capital and largest city in Kuwait, with a population of over 4 million people. Kuwait is the only country in the Middle East with a theatrical tradition, and you’ll find most of the homegrown performances in the nation’s capital.

Jahra

A lush, historical place to retreat

This is a large city located in the northwest region of Kuwait, known for its beautiful parks and gardens. There are many schools and language centres here.

Salmiya

A seaside shopper’s paradise

This is a bustling seaside town located on the eastern coast of Kuwait. Salmiya is home to several international schools and language centres, making it a popular destination for English teachers.

Fahaheel

Housing Kuwait’s many scenic delights

A coastal city located in the south of Kuwait, Fahaheel is known for its stunning beaches and cultural attractions. There are many language schools and universities here.

English is in high demand in Kuwait, so there are many opportunities to teach and help students improve their language skills.

Kuwait is a country that has always been a popular – if alternative – destination for TEFL teachers. Salaries have typically been competitive compared to countries in Asia and South America. But with that comes more stringent requirements to sourcing a job in the country.

Teaching in Kuwait is competitive, due to its competitive salaries and expectations from its English teachers. 

Do you need a visa to teach English in Kuwait?

A work visa is required for teaching abroad in Kuwait. Most employers will apply for a work permit from the Ministry of Social Affairs & Labour prior to your arrival.

In order to secure a work visa in Kuwait, an HIV/contagious disease test and physical test may need to be completed. Criminal background checks and academic transcripts may also need to be cleared for visa purposes. 

Note that a TEFL is not necessary for attaining a visa in Kuwait, but it is highly recommended in order to get a job. 

A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the minimum requirement, but if you’re serious about securing a good job in Kuwait’s competitive market, we recommend the 168-hour Combined TEFL course to give you the best qualification. The additional classroom training will show employers you have the experience necessary to teach in Kuwait. 

Most teachers have their visa processed prior to arriving in the country. The interview and visa process can take up to three months to complete. 

Do I need teaching experience to teach in Kuwait?

Most teaching positions in Kuwait will ask candidates for some level of prior experience, though how much can vary.

Pre-school teachers typically only need one year of teaching experience, with most others asking for two. It is not uncommon for some positions to ask for 5+ however. 

Which TEFL certification is best for teaching in Kuwait?

In order to teach English in Kuwait, you must complete an internationally recognised TEFL course from an accredited TEFL course provider.  

The TEFL Academy’s Level 5 Combined Course (168 hours) is the best course to get if you are looking to get formal work as an English teacher in language schools. This course offers 10 hours of in-class instruction.

The TEFL Academy’s Level 5 Online TEFL Course offers the same opportunities to teach in schools but is completed entirely online. If you’d like to add practical experience to your qualification (and we would definitely recommend doing so for teaching in Kuwait) but are unable to attend a face-to-face course, The TEFL Academy offers a Level 5 40-hour Observed Teaching Practice Course which gives you real-life teaching practice with the convenience of online learning.

Can I teach English in Kuwait with no degree?

To teach English in Kuwait, it is required that you have a degree. A four-year degree is usually asked for (Bachelor’s required, Master’s preferred), though the field doesn’t have to be specifically English teaching or education.

Alternatively, for those who don’t have a degree, there is the option of teaching Kuwaiti students English online. 

Not every TEFL destination requires a degree to teach in. Countries like Spain, Argentina and Costa Rica are all great alternatives!  

Can non-native speakers teach English in Kuwait?

A native English speaker is anyone who speaks English as their first language and hails from a country where English is the official language (the US, UK, Canada, South Africa, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand).

You don’t have to be a native English speaker to teach English in Kuwait, though some employers may still show a preference for these candidates. In order to stand out from the competition, non-native speakers should have a Master’s degree. 

Do you need to speak Arabic to teach English in Kuwait?

Absolutely not! TEFL relies heavily on immersion learning, which doesn’t include the use of the first language in the classroom. Instead, English is the only language spoken during lessons.

However, outside the classroom, learning some basic Arabic phrases will help you transition into your new life faster. 

Thanks to the rise of TEFL in the country and influx of Western media, Kuwait has one of the highest English proficiency levels in the Middle East. English is the most widely-spoken language behind Arabic, especially in the urban areas of the country. 

With that being said, collaboration and socialising between foreign teachers and the local community is heavily encouraged in Kuwait, so picking up some phrases for outside the classroom will be a big benefit. 

How much start-up capital do I need to teach in Kuwait?

Kuwait is one of the most heavy-income countries in the Middle East. We recommend bringing with you at least one month’s worth of start-up capital with you to see you through until your first paycheque arrives. 

But what does that mean exactly? Let’s break it down.

• Accommodation: Usually provided.
• TEFL certification: A TEFL course can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the length and level of the course and the course provider. 
• Document fees: Any costs related to apostilling your degree and legalising your TEFL certificate.
• Flight ticket: Variable. You may receive a flight reimbursement.
• Visa application: The cost of a work visa for six months in Kuwait is $457. Expect support from your employer for this. 
• Living expenses: You will need one month’s worth of start-up capital of about KD230 ($750) to help you along in Kuwait before your first paycheque.

The culture surrounding education in Kuwait can be an adjustment for some TEFL teachers, especially when it comes to private schools. It’s always worth getting a feel for the type of institute you’ll be working in before signing any contracts. 

Private schools

Private schools are privately funded educational institutions that offer education to students of all ages. Private schools in Kuwait often require English language teachers and pay an average salary of around KD 900 – KD 1,200 a month ($3,000 – $4,000).

Public schools

Public schools are government-funded educational institutions that offer education to students of all ages. Public schools in Kuwait also require English language teachers and pay an average salary of around KD 900 – KD 1,200 a month ($3,000 – $4,000).

International schools

International schools in Kuwait are educational institutions that offer education to students from different countries and backgrounds. These schools require English language teachers who are native speakers and have a teaching certificate. They also offer teaching assistant positions. The average salary for an English language teacher in an international school in Kuwait is around KD 1,500 – KD 2,000 a month ($5,000 – $6,600).

Language centres

Language centres are institutions that offer language courses to students of all ages. These centres require English language teachers who can teach different levels of English language proficiency. The average salary for an English language teacher in a language centre in Kuwait is around KD 800 – KD 1,200 a month ($2,600 – $4,000).

You can also consider applying for university jobs or earning additional money online by looking for online part-time jobs.

Overall, salaries and benefits in Kuwait can be quite competitive, and many employers offer additional perks such as paid vacation time, end-of-service gratuity, and professional development opportunities.

From getting the right TEFL certification to navigating visa procedures and getting the right documents in order, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success in finding a job teaching English in Kuwait 

Let’s get down to business!

1. Get a TEFL qualification. Acquiring a Level 5 168-hour TEFL certificate (for those who haven’t taught in a classroom especially) is first on the list. 
2. Meet the minimum requirements. There will be plenty of positions that don’t match your criteria – that’s okay! 
3. Prepare your documents. The trick here is to be patient. It’lll take time, but this is an invaluable process to get right. 
4. Prepare your CV. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter each time for each different employer.
5. Start your job search. Check out our TEFL jobs board for teaching positions.
6. Consider using recruitment companies. A recruiter will help give you a better insight into a company or position. 
7. Apply for a visa. After you’ve wowed your future employer, you can begin your visa process. Your employer will take care most of it, but it can take 1-3 months to complete. 

Whether it’s with a recruiter, going down the route of private language schools, or going at it solo there are many great opportunities available for English teachers in Kuwait. 

Let’s see what you can expect it to cost living in Kuwait.

Accommodation

• One-bedroom apartment in city centre: KD 285 ($930 USD) 
• One-bedroom apartment outside city centre: KD 200 ($650)

Utilities

• Gas, electricity, water, garbage disposal: KD15 ($44)  

Food and groceries

• Monthly shop: KD 30 – KD50 ($100 – $160)  
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: KD 2 ($6.50)

Transport 

• Monthly pass: KD 15 ($50)  
• Single bus or subway trip: KD 0.30 ($1) .

Internet

• Unlimited: KD 10 ($31.50) 

Entertainment

• Gym, cinema, shopping: KD 75 ($245)

Yes, it’s possible to save money as an English teacher in Kuwait. English teachers in Kuwait typically earn a good salary, and many schools and institutes offer benefits such as housing, airfare, and health insurance. Additionally, the cost of living in Kuwait can be lower than other countries in the Middle East.

Iit is important to note that the cost of living will vary depending on the area you live in and your lifestyle choices. With careful budgeting and saving habits, it’s definitely possible to live comfortably and save money as an English teacher in Kuwait.

Living and teaching English in Kuwait is a fascinating experience, with many cultural customs and day-to-day nuances to navigate. For example, Kuwait is a predominantly Muslim country, and you’ll likely encounter religious customs such as prayer times and Ramadan, which is a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Additionally, there are specific cultural customs related to social interactions, such as the importance of hospitality and respect for elders.

In terms of day-to-day life, the country has a modern infrastructure that offers many amenities for your day-to-day life. From shopping malls to restaurants and recreational activities, there’s always something to do in Kuwait. 

Oh, and don’t be surprised if you see falcons around! These birds are highly valued in Kuwaiti culture and history, so they’re a common sight. 

Just be prepared to handle the extreme heat during the summer months. It might take some time to adjust, but with the right measures, you can enjoy all that Kuwait has to offer year-round.