Starting a teaching career in Dubai is an exciting opportunity, but it takes more than just a passion for education—you’ll need the proper credentials, especially if you’re aiming to teach in the city’s private schools. Getting a teaching license in Dubai is a vital step for anyone looking to join the thriving education sector. The process, overseen by the UAE Ministry of Education and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), ensures that all teachers, regardless of their teaching experience, meet the high standards expected in Dubai’s schools.
Whether you’re an experienced educator or just beginning your journey, understanding the steps to secure this license will help you take the next step toward making a real impact in the classroom. In this article, we’ll walk you through what you need to know to obtain your teaching license in Dubai, covering everything from the required qualifications to the application process and the necessary documentation.
Eligibility Requirements to Become a Teacher in the UAE
Educational Qualifications:
- Class Teachers: A recognized Bachelor’s Degree in Education (B.Ed), a Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma in Education, or a Master’s Degree in Education (M.Ed) is required.
- Subject Teachers: A recognized bachelor’s degree in the specific subject area you intend to teach is necessary.
Teacher Preparation Qualification:
Teachers must have a recognized teacher preparation qualification, covering essential areas like educational pedagogy, curriculum development, classroom management, educational technology, and cognitive psychology.
Teachers of English language as a subject must additionally have a qualification in teaching English as a second or foreign language (e.g., CELTA, DELTA, TESOL).
Language Proficiency:
- English Language: Teachers who instruct in English need an IELTS score of at least 6.0, while those teaching English as a subject require a score of 7.0 or equivalent.
- Arabic Language: Proficiency in Arabic is mandatory for those teaching Arabic or Islamic Studies.
Professional Licensing Tests:
Candidates must pass a subject-specific specialization test and a pedagogy test as part of the Teacher Licensing System (TLS).
Legal and Health Requirements:
- Criminal Clearance: A police clearance certificate is required.
- Good Standing: A letter from the current or previous employer confirming the teacher’s good standing may be required.
- Medical Fitness: A medical fitness certificate from a recognized medical facility in Dubai is mandatory.
Document Attestation:
Educational certificates obtained outside the UAE must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and your home country’s embassy in the UAE.
Mandatory Professional Development:
Teachers must complete a set of mandatory professional development courses, including Child Protection and Safeguarding, Dealing with People of Determination, Diversity, Moral Education, Sustainability, and Wellbeing, provided by KHDA-approved training providers.
Types of Dubai Teaching Licenses
Steps to get a Teaching License in Dubai, UAE
Meet the Eligibility Requirements:
Ensure you have the necessary educational qualifications (e.g., a Bachelor’s Degree in Education or a subject-specific degree).
Obtain a recognized teacher preparation qualification.
Demonstrate language proficiency in English or Arabic, depending on the teaching language.
Register on the Teachers Licensing System (TLS)
Visit the TLS official website and create an account.
Provide your basic information, qualifications, and upload required documents, such as Emirates ID, passport, and educational certificates.
Submit Documents and Pay Fees:
Upload all necessary documents, including attested educational certificates, police clearance certificate, and medical fitness certificate.
Pay the required fees associated with the application process.
Schedule and Take Required Exams:
After your documents are verified, you will be scheduled for two exams:
Subject Specialization Test: Focuses on your specific teaching subject.
Pedagogy Test: Assesses your teaching skills, classroom management, and knowledge of UAE education standards.
Complete Any Additional Training (if necessary):
If you do not pass the tests on your first attempt, you may need to enroll in training courses tailored to address the areas where improvement is needed.
You will have two additional opportunities to retake the exams.
Receive Your Teaching License:
Upon passing the required exams, you will be issued a teaching license. This license is typically valid for one to three years, depending on your qualifications and test scores.
Engage in Continuous Professional Development:
To renew your teaching license, you must engage in ongoing professional development as required by the KHDA and MoE.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for Education Professionals in Dubai
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is B.Ed compulsory for teaching in Dubai?
A B.Ed is generally required for class teachers. However, subject teachers may need a relevant bachelor’s degree in the specific subject area they intend to teach.
Can I teach in UAE without B.Ed?
Yes, you can teach in the UAE with a relevant bachelor’s degree in the subject you intend to teach, provided you have the necessary teacher preparation qualification.
What is the qualification test for teachers in Dubai?
Teachers must pass two tests: a subject-specific specialization test and a pedagogy test as part of the Teacher Licensing System (TLS).
How long is the Dubai teaching license valid for?
The teaching license in Dubai is typically valid for 1 to 3 years, depending on qualifications and test scores.
What is a transitional teaching license in the UAE, and how can one apply for it?
A transitional license allows teachers to work while completing the full licensing requirements. It can be applied for via the TLS platform if some requirements are still pending.
What happens if you don't pass the Dubai teaching license tests?
You are allowed two additional attempts to retake the tests. If you fail all attempts, further training may be required before you can reapply.
Is there any ongoing professional development required to maintain a teaching license in Dubai?
Yes, ongoing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is required to maintain and renew a teaching license in Dubai.
Can teachers with extensive experience but no formal qualifications apply for the Dubai teaching license?
While extensive experience is valuable, formal qualifications are typically required to obtain a teaching license in Dubai. Special cases may be considered, but they usually require additional assessments or qualifications.
