What Are the Basic Requirements for Teaching English in Oman?

Renowned for its breathtaking coastlines, majestic sand dunes, and warm-hearted locals, Oman stands as a prime destination for English teaching opportunities in the Middle East. Similar to other Gulf countries, Oman offers educators competitive salaries and enticing benefits, alongside a high quality of life in a nation equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure and cosmopolitan cities that effortlessly blend traditional souks with ultra-modern shopping centers. Nestled at the eastern edge of the Arabian peninsula, where the Persian Gulf converges with the Indian Ocean, Oman boasts a rich heritage spanning thousands of years, acting as a pivotal crossroad connecting trade routes from India, Africa, and the Middle East. Moreover, the country's natural wonders present an abundance of thrilling outdoor activities, ranging from diving and wind-surfing to unforgettable desert camping experiences.

If you are considering teaching English in Oman, you must meet the following qualifications below: 

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an English Teacher in Oman?

To teach English in Oman, you will need a TEFL certificate. A college degree is required, & many employers hire teachers with an education degree and teaching experience. You must be a native English speaker as well. The average salary for an English teacher in Oman ranges from $1,600 - $3,000 USD (600 - 1,200 OMR) per month.

Requirements to Teach English in Oman

Now let's look at the following requirements to teach English in Oman in detail:

1. Have a TEFL Certification (typically required)

2. Hold citizenship from a recognized English-speaking country

3. Hold a Bachelor's Degree (at least) from an accredited college or university

4. Understand the hiring process & possess the correct documents

5. Cover basic start-up costs

1. TEFL Certification (Typically Required)

To teach English in Oman, you will need a TEFL Certification. Though not technically a legal requirement, reputable private language schools in Oman typically require that their teachers be TEFL certified. Quality schools offering quality jobs typically are not interested in hiring teachers who have not received proper training. 

2. Hold citizenship from a Recognized English-speaking Country

Most schools in Oman require applicants for English teaching jobs to be native English speakers from countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. However, in exceptional cases, individuals who are not citizens of these nations may still have a chance at securing a teaching position in Oman if they hold a graduate degree, possess exceptional English language skills, and have extensive teaching experience. It is worth noting that these opportunities are rare and heavily dependent on luck.

3. Have a Bachelor's Degree from an Accredited College or University

Can you teach English in Oman without a degree?

While a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for English teachers in Oman, many schools prefer candidates with a degree in education or even a master's degree. Previous teaching experience and a teaching license from countries like the U.S or the U.K are also highly valued.

However, this doesn't mean that individuals with only an undergraduate degree and a TEFL certification cannot find teaching opportunities in Oman. Patience, persistence, and exploring other possibilities are key for those looking to teach in this region.

Pro Tip! If you are looking for a fantastic experience in the heart of the Middle East where you can still earn great salaries and benefits, consider other countries in the region like Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.  There are also exponentially more jobs in Asia, in countries like South Korea & China, where English teachers commonly receive benefits like free housing & airfare and typically save 30%-50% of their monthly salary after expenses.

4. Understand the Hiring Process & Documents like Visas

Many schools and universities begin in August-September, so spring and summer tend to be excellent times to look for jobs, but job vacancies do open throughout the year. Most teachers are interviewed and hired in advance from their own country and get their visa processed prior to their departure for their teaching destination.

Many schools will use recruiting agencies and online job boards to manage the hiring process. To receive their visa, teachers should expect to pass a physical and an HIV test, and in many cases, academic transcripts and a criminal background check may also be necessary. Expect the processes of interviewing and procuring a visa to take at least 1-3 months.

Employment Visa – An employment visa is issued to those who find employment in advance of moving to Oman. Your employer will assist you in obtaining all of the necessary documents needed to apply for the Employment Visa. The majority of English teachers will apply for and receive their employment in advance of moving to Oman. However, in some cases your employer may request you enter Oman on a tourist visa and apply for your Employment Visa while in Oman.

National ID Card – After arriving in Oman, all expatriates are required to apply for a National ID Card. The National ID Card is used for many services throughout Oman, so it is recommended to apply for it as early as possible upon your arrival. Always check with your school and employer on any additional documents you may need.

Paperwork & Documents required to obtain Employment Visa and National ID Card for teaching English in Oman:

• Application
• Passport
• Medical Test (May also be required on arrival in Oman)
• Criminal Record Check
• Employment Contract
• Other documents as required

5. Save for Basic Start-up Costs

We recommend that individuals interested in teaching in Oman should plan to arrive with at least $1,000-$1,500 saved to cover some initial expenses. While most employers provide housing and some even offer airfare, it's still advisable for new teachers to have some accessible funds for the first month or so to cover food and other basic expenses. However, it is very manageable to recover these start-up costs as most English teachers in Oman can save anywhere from $800-$2,000 per month after taking care of their expenses.

Oman attracts expatriates from around the globe who come to live and work in cities like Oman. Despite the increasing number of foreigners, Omani culture remains deeply rooted in its Arabian heritage. Apart from the financial benefits, teaching in Oman offers English teachers an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in a culturally rich experience. And, with its unique location, Oman also offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to travel in South Asia and the Middle East.

Go Further:

• Teaching English in Oman Country Profile
• What are the requirements for teaching English abroad?
• Teaching English in Middle East Country Profiles