Your guide to teaching in Kuwait - by teachers, for teachers.
Teach in Kuwait and see the world!
Apply NowKuwait is one of those Middle Eastern countries with a culture that cannot be found anywhere else. Teachers can experience life in this picturesque shoreline, surrounded by archaeological sites and vast stretches of desert. There's no better way for an educator to live and teach English abroad than as part of such an exceptional opportunity and it will all be worth it when your students finally say "I understand!"
If you're an aspiring educator and are looking for teaching jobs abroad, Kuwait might be the destination for you. Teachers here can earn a salary with premium benefits packages while living in one of the wealthiest nations on Earth- just don't forget to pack your sunscreen!
What's included in your guide to teaching in Kuwait (made by teachers for teachers):
About Kuwait
One of the richest countries in the Middle East, Kuwait is looking for English-speaking educators to teach its growing population. The primary language in Kuwait is Arabic but there's a huge demand by many from preschoolers to university students alike who want to learn this second, most popular world language.
Types of international teaching
jobs in Kuwait
Preschool Jobs
The best way to be on the cutting edge of education is by learning English from an early age and some preschools in Kuwait are already doing just that. Besides teaching children, there are other benefits such as being able to work with them at a young age - both mentally and emotionally. A Bachelor's degree plus one year experience working with kids make you eligible for most positions.
International School Jobs
There are more, amazing opportunities to teach in Kuwait at an international school. You will have the chance to meet students of different nationalities and share your teaching expertise with them. As a teacher, there are opportunities across multiple subjects from math, science, all the way through to elementary classes!
University Jobs
Universities in Kuwait are looking for English teachers. One attractive part of teaching at a university here is that you don’t need to have a PhD - all they require is either an undergraduate degree or graduate level qualification; no previous experience necessary! You might find yourself lecturing freshmen and sophomores on the finer points of language skills in large lecture halls with well-developed students who already speak fluent English.
Want to know about teaching in Kuwait?
The American Creativity Academy is currently accepting applications for qualified teachers to start in August!
Teaching in Kuwait - what is it like?
Kuwait has a reputation as one of the most polite, welcoming cultures in the world. But many visitors and newcomers are unprepared for how strict it can be - even when it comes to their classrooms! As with any country or culture where socializing is discouraged during school hours, this should not discourage you from building relationships with your students through conversations.
You will most likely teach in Kuwait in conjunction with local Arab teachers in classes of 20 to 25 students. Spend some quality time getting to know each individual as this act itself will build trust within these families-oriented cultures.
What does teaching in Kuwait look like?
Teacher Work Culture in Kuwait
Teaching in Kuwait at a private, international school has some differences such as the work week in Kuwait is Sunday through Thursday (7am-3pm). Depending on the international school you work at, you will be part of a diverse team of educators from all over the world who you will work closely with to plan for your grade/subject levels throughout the year.
Teaching Benefits in Kuwait
When you are considering a move to teach in Kuwait, one of the first questions you are likely to ask is 'how much do teachers earn in Kuwait?'. Teaching in Kuwait is a very lucrative opportunity. The average monthly salary ranges from $2,500 to $4,000 with many teachers also receiving free housing and health insurance benefits!
Kuwaiti schools offer an amazing teaching experience that makes for the perfect international adventure. Teachers are not taxed on their earnings and get some incredible perks such as free flights back home every two years, rent-free living quarters within walking distance of work at most institutions, and access to private healthcare facilities should you need it during your stay here!
| Teaching Benefit in Kuwait | Details |
|---|---|
| Airfare | Airfare for teacher and dependents is provided so there's no need to worry about how you'll get over here! |
| Accommodation | The accommodation allowance usually includes your housing while on the job which means that all you have left are the cost of airfare/flights home during vacations or emergencies; this takes care of any worries about where you're going live when teaching overseas—you don't even need to buy furniture! |
| Health Insurance | Kuwait has fantastic healthcare facilities and teachers typically are provided with International Health Insurance to cover them in Kuwait and during their travels |
| Tuition | For teachers with children, the international school you teach at is usually where your children will attend, for free! |
| Contract Length | Contract length in Kuwait is typically 2 years in length, however teachers tend to stay longer! |
| Transportation | Free Transportation to and from school campus |
How much can I save while teaching in Kuwait?
Most teachers in Kuwait save 60% - 70% of their monthly income. This depends on what you like to do with your income and how many Starbuck trips you make!
Potential Savings for Teacher in Kuwait
| Low Range Salary (USD) | Mid Range Salary (USD) | Top End Salary (USD) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Teaching Salary in Kuwait | $2,600 | $3,200 | $4,000 |
| Rent | Free! | Free! | Free! |
| Percentage Saved | 60% | 60% | 60% |
| Monthly Savings (approx) | $1,560 | $1,920 | $2,400 |
| Yearly Savings (approx) | $18,720 | $23,040 | $28,800 |
Teaching Benefits at the American Creativity Academy
The American Creativity Academy offers a competitive overseas teacher benefits package, which includes:
| Teaching Benefit in Kuwait | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $2,500 - $3,500 monthly, tax free salary |
| Accommodation | Furnished apartment (utilities included) in our teacher housing complexes |
| Health Insurance | International health insurance for the teacher and two dependents, as applicable |
| Tuition | Tuition discount for children at ACA |
| Contract Length | Two-year contract with bonus |
| Airfare | Yearly roundtrip ticket to home of record for the teacher and two dependents |
| Professional Development | Professional development (PD) allowance |
| Moving Expenses | Settling-in allowance |
| Shipping Expenses | Excess baggage allowance |
| Vacation and Holidays | Vacation: National Holidays and School Holidays |
| Relocation Support and Expenses | Work visa-related support services |
The best country in the Middle East for teachers with families
Moving abroad with a family - Kuwait is a top choice for you!
For those looking to teach English abroad in the Middle East and are considering Kuwait, you should know that it is one of the most family-friendly destinations out there. In addition to great schools for quality education, there's also a thriving family community with plenty of things to do at night or on weekends from walking tours through local markets right down to family picnics by the water.
What qualifications do I need to teach in Kuwait?
| Qualifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Degree | A 4-year bachelor degree is typically required to teach English in Kuwait and depending on your teaching area, your degree major will need to be in that subject. |
| Licensure | Depending on the type of school and position you are applying for, you will need an active teaching license. |
| Experience | International schools vary in the experience required to teach in Kuwait. Some schools accept applications from new graduates and some schools require at least two years of full-time teaching experience. |
Do I need a TEFL to teach English abroad or teach in Kuwait?
No, you do not need a TEFL to teach English abroad or for a teaching job in Kuwait. It all depends on the position and school you are applying to so it’s best to check out the school’s careers page or contact them for more information.
Teaching Jobs in Kuwait at the American Creativity Academy
The American Creativity Academy has teaching job openings available for experienced educators with strong pedagogical experience interested in joining our team of passionate teachers committed to academic success.
- Kindergarten Teachers
- Elementary Teachers
- Math Teachers
- Science Teachers
- Social Studies Teachers
- History Teachers
- English Teachers
- Design Teachers
- School Counselors
Living and Working in Kuwait
Living and working in Kuwait is a great experience, but it does have some challenges. One of the primary differences living there as opposed to Western countries with more liberal policies on alcohol consumption is that liquor sales are illegal and punishable by fines or imprisonment.
Another difference felt immediately upon arrival from your native country would be that the summers can get hot and you're going to experience highs around 44 degrees Celsius during August. But with the coastline so close, there are lots of water activities to help cope with the temperature and enjoy it too!
Is it safe to live in Kuwait?
Kuwait is a very friendly place with very low crime levels. However as with any country, it's best to exercise caution when you are exploring and travel with other friends or family members.
Cuisine and Leisure
Kuwait's culture is rich with customs and traditions. Westerners will find a thriving shopping district as well as locations for socializing -- mostly in the form of attending private parties hosted by Kuwaiti citizens or other foreigners living in Kuwait. Friendship comes first with more time spent telling stories over food shared, shopping and playing sports among friends and acquaintances.
Expats in Kuwait live an exciting life with a lot of things to do. There are the usual residential areas where people can buy food, clothes etc. but there are also shopping centers that have shops from all over the world and many franchise restaurants such as McDonalds!
Scrolling through your Instagram feed you see pictures of some new cafes popping up here and there while others get refurbished or renovated. Social media is very popular in Kuwait and is always reflecting the latest trends.
Travel and Tourism in Kuwait
Being one of the most open nations in terms of international travel, it is no surprise that educators are free to explore all parts and flavors of this tiny country. Such as Kuwait Towers, the JACC, some of the key the holiday locations in the south where you can access the beach.
If you like to explore, Kuwait is the perfect destination. You can visit a number of interesting places in this small nation: Grand Mosque or Scientific Center are just two examples. These attractions have been built by Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and it's an opportunity for teachers too - that may be looking for new lesson plan ideas!
The Kuwaiti summer is so hot that the international school term finishes in mid-June, meaning teachers get over 10 weeks of holiday! There are a variety of airlines and destinations to choose from for traveling abroad.
Many people fly with Emirates Airline which has flights available every day and goes all around Asia, Europe or Africa. However one can also go on other airlines where you could visit Delhi within four hours; Sri Lanka by five; London by six if not more depending how many stops there are along the way while Bangkok takes only seven hours away by plane as well!
Popular Destinations to Teach in Kuwait
Kuwait is a small country and much of its 6,880 square miles are empty desert. This means that there's a few key locations to teach in Kuwait City close to some first-rate museums, parks, traditional markets and restaurants making it an attractive location to live or work.
Key destinations with schools include Hawally, Salmiya, Mahboula, Salwa, Sabah Al Salem and more.
Teaching English in Kuwait Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question? We’re here to help.
INTERESTED IN TEACHING IN KUWAIT?
The American Creativity Academy is looking for experienced teachers and would love to receive your application!
