Essential survival tips for teaching in the UAE

(El Gazette August 2010)

·         Be wary of accepting a position that asks you to share accommodation. It's important to have time away from work and colleagues.

·         Accept the accommodation provided by the employer rather than the accommodation allowance, which sometimes can take months to come through.

·         Take the return plane ticket to your country rather than the dollar value.

·         If you're single, consider wearing a wedding ring to avoid unwanted questions and propositions.

·         Keep about $1,500 (or its equivalent in the local currency) in cash at home. Burglary is almost unheard of but bank problems are common.

·         Expect students to lack self-study and autonomous learning skills. They will need very structured learning and to be driven hard to complete any outside study.

·         Find a hobby you'd like to do and hook up with relevant groups online. Not only will you meet people but you'll get to see more of the country.

·         Rent rather than buy a car. The desert dust is hard on cars and if you buy one you'll need to garage it in summer or the wheels will deform from the heat. It also means one less problem if you decide to pack up and leave quickly.  

·         Buy a few pashmina shawls and keep one in the car. This means you can cover up bare shoulders when in a public place.

·         Take advantage of formal social events to network but be aware that it can be difficult to change sponsorship between employers.