Lillie Said:

Teaching English in Saudi Arabia without experience and qualifications?

We Answered:

I guess that would be very hard, because if it is an institue advertising then they need their employees to have the right qualifications. That is not only important for getting you the work visa ( which would have to say that you are a qualified teacher) , but also for responsibility towards the parents and students.

Nevertheless if you are a native speaker and already in Saudi Arabia, say with your spouse, then you could teach english private---like conversation for example....

Leo Said:

What is it like for Americans living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?

We Answered:

First, I'll just go ahead and answer some of the more popular questions asked about Saudi Arabia.

1. No, alochol is not permitted in the country.
2. Yes, people are beheaded aka capital punishment.
3. You should be able to bring a Bible into the country without any problems.
4. Saudis (and Arabs) are very hospitable so I'm sure you'll make some very good friends while you're here.
5. True, women can't drive here.
6. No, westerners are not hated.
7. Yes, all women have to wear a black abaya (cloak) when they leave the house.
8. Satellite TV is available.
9. No, we don't use camels for transportation.
10. It's true; oil is cheaper than water!

Anyways, you've opened a Pandora's box. Different people are going to give you many different versions of life. The expat community in SA resides mainly in heavily guarded compounds which prevents them from actually enjoying the country and mingling with the locals. There is so much to tell you about life in Saudi Arabia that I couldn't possibly fit it here but I'll try to sum it up.

People think SA is a big sandbox but I assure you, it's not. There is beauty, culture, religion and heritage all rolled into one. Depending on which part of the country you go to, you can see mountains, lush vegetation and yes, lots of sand but even the sand is beautiful.

I took a road trip from Jeddah to Madain Saleh (the Nabatean Tombs) in the north and it was the most beautiful experience I've ever had. The desert sky at nigh is breath-taking. I never saw so many stars. The landscape made us speechless. And let me tell you, sand can be fun too. We actually stopped on the way and climbed up a sand dune. It was really nice.

Anyways, the point is, SA is a blend of east and west. There may be veiled women, mosques and lots of sand but there is also hospitality, shopping malls and Starbucks (yum!!).

Trust me, people will be very welcoming. You don't have to have facial hair. You don't need to dress a certain way (jeans and t-shirts will do fine....or suits since you said you'll be working in an official capacity) or do anything religious. Just make sure you don't use your left hand for anything, don't try to shake hands with a woman and never refuse an invitation for dinner. Arabs are extremely hospitable and love entertaining guests.

Muslims pray five times a day so be prepared for five 'breaks' plus lunchtime everyday. Also, social events usually happen at night so e.g if you go to someone's house for dinner, don't expect to come home before 1 or 2 AM. Malls and restaurants are also open till the wee hours of the night.

Basically, you're going to have a blast. Western teachers literally make piles of tax-free money, live in luxurious compounds and have a fun time at work.

Note: Don't worry, you will not be expected to convert to or praise Islam nor will you be expected to disparage other religions. Try to relax; it's not as bad as the media makes it out to be.


I hope you enjoy your stay here.

Gene Said:

~Are there a lot teaching jobs in Saudi Arabia, mainly teaching young children..?

We Answered:

I'm an Englsih teacher in Saudi Public schools :)

& i think if u're a native speaker of English u may get a nice teaching job over here - teaching English - sure not with the public schools but with private and international schools.

Ppl of this section are helpful :) they're goan do the best they can to help ya .

wish u the best of Luck

Leonard Said:

Are there any English teaching jobs in saudi arabia

We Answered:

I have never heard of an overseas TEFL job that required anything less than a Bachelor's Degree. International schools that hire English-speaking teachers for early childhood education usually require a Bachelor's Degree in teaching, plus two years of experience.

Also, I don't know about your personal situation, but unless you are a Saudi national, or are hired by a foreign corporation, you probably won't be allowed in the country without a male relative such as a husband, father or brother. Saudi Arabia isn't a great place for single women to try to have an overseas experience. You may already know this, but I thought I'd mention it.

Michele Said:

Jobs in Saudi Arabia?

We Answered:

Google "Jobs in Saudi Arabia"

Marlene Said:

Good teaching jobs in Saudi Arabia?

We Answered:

you dont need a program or company... They are so in need of native english speakers, they beg you to come work for them... Any school, or just put up flyers in the major shopping stores and you will get called for tutoring..