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How to teach in Australia by starting your journey in the Middle East: A step-by-step guide for teachers


For many teachers, particularly from South Africa, the dream of teaching in Australia goes beyond just better pay. It’s about security, long-term opportunity, and a better quality of life for yourself and your family. But for most, the pathway to a teaching career in Australia can feel overwhelming. Between the cost, paperwork, and complex visa requirements, it can seem like a distant goal.

skyline and palm trees at night
Sunset in Abu Dhabi

Fortunately, there’s a smart, strategic way to reach that dream: teaching in the Middle East first.


Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to how you can use a teaching job in the Middle East as a launchpad for a successful move to Australia.



Teaching in countries like the UAE, Oman, or Saudi Arabia can help you:


  • Earn a tax-free salary (often in foreign currency)

  • Receive free or subsidised housing, healthcare, and flights

  • Save money quickly, since living expenses are often low

  • Gain international teaching experience, especially in British or IB curricula

  • Prepare your Australian teaching documents (like IELTS and AITSL assessments) without financial pressure



Before you apply, check that you meet the basic requirements:


  • Teaching qualification: A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

  • Experience: At least 2 years of post-qualification classroom teaching in the same phase as your degree (essential)

  • Additional requirements:

    • Police clearance certificate

    • Good professional references

    • High level of English proficiency (IELTS is not required, but it helps)

    • Willingness to adapt to international curricula and diverse classrooms



Step 3: Secure a Middle East teaching contract


You can find teaching roles through:

  • International recruitment agencies, such as SA-Recruitment but there are others too :-)

  • School websites in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia

  • Teacher job boards and Facebook groups


Most contracts offer:

  • A two-year duration

  • Fully furnished accommodation or a housing allowance

  • Medical coverage

  • Return flights each year


Use this time to focus on saving money and building your international teaching profile.


Step 4: Start preparing for Australia while you work


During your time in the Middle East, take these steps toward your Australian dream:


  1. Take the IELTS Academic

    • Required for both immigration and teaching registration

    • Cost: Approximately R5,000–R6,000


  2. Complete the AITSL Skills Assessment

    • Verify your teaching qualifications for Australia

    • Make sure your degree matches the phase you teach (e.g., Foundation Phase vs. Secondary Education)

    • Cost: AUD $1,020 (approx. R13,000)


  3. Consider hiring a registered migration agent

    • Helpful for managing your PR or skilled visa application

    • Cost: R25,000–R50,000 depending on the level of service


  4. Research Australian state-specific teaching requirements

    • Each state has its own registration process

    • Begin collecting required documents (certificates, transcripts, reference letters)



Step 5: Apply for Australian Migration with confidence


By the end of your second year in the Middle East, you’ll likely have:

  • Enough savings to fund the entire visa process

  • Valuable international teaching experience

  • Completed all the documentation required for your visa and teaching registration


Now you can apply for an Australian skilled migration visa with much greater confidence and financial stability.


This Isn’t a Shortcut, it’s a Strategy


Moving directly from South Africa to Australia is possible, but for many teachers, the upfront costs and strict requirements make it difficult. Starting in the Middle East gives you the financial freedom, international experience, and preparation time to make the Australian dream achievable.


This strategy has already helped many South African teachers successfully settle and work in Australia. With some planning and persistence, it can work for you too.


Looking for Middle East teaching vacancies or support with the process?


Whether you’re ready to apply or just want to explore your options, support is available. The journey starts with one decision: Are you ready to take the first step?



 
 
 

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