Located on the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, where the Persian Gulf meets the Indian Ocean, the Sultanate of Oman has been a crossroads of commerce and culture for thousands of years. Today, as a dynamic nation with a fast-modernizing economy based on oil, gas, and international trade, it is emerging as one of the most attractive – and lucrative – destinations for teaching English in the Middle East.
Despite the intense competition in Oman due to its small size and strict hiring requirements, qualified educators have the opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career with enticing benefits. Not only can they enjoy a tax-free monthly salary ranging from $1,600 to $3,000 or possibly even more, but they can also indulge in additional perks such as airfare, health insurance, and furnished housing.
As the expatriate population continues to grow and international commerce flourishes, there has been a remarkable increase in the demand for English language education in Oman. With more Omanis pursuing higher education in the UK and the USA, schools and students are investing heavily in qualified English instructors. This demand extends to traditional schools as well as language institutes that cater to business professionals. Additionally, there is a strong need for specialized training to excel in English proficiency exams, which are necessary for admission to English language universities and to qualify for specific jobs that require certain levels of fluency in English.
Read More: Teaching English in Oman
English Teacher Salary in Oman
How Much Does an English Teacher Earn in Oman?
Typically, English teachers in Oman can expect to earn $1,600 – $3,000 USD (approx. 600 – 1150 OMR*) per month tax-free, and probably more if you possess additional experience and credentials. It is typical for schools to pay for teacher’s housing (furnished) and to cover flight costs.
As a qualified English teacher in Oman, your salary will differ depending on the teaching role you choose. Having prior teaching experience can lead to higher starting pay rates, and as you gain more experience, your salary is likely to increase.
* The abbreviation for the Omani Rial is OMR.
Read more: How Much Can I Make Teaching English Abroad?
Oman Teaching Salary: The Details
Qualified English teachers can gain employment in a variety of schools in Oman. For those who choose to teach English in this vibrant country, there are various avenues to explore:
- Teaching adults, business professionals, or children in private language schools and occasionally in vocational colleges;
- Teaching children and teenagers in International schools;
- Private tutoring children and adults, often for standardized proficiency exams;
- Teaching English online;
- A combination of the above.
Keep in mind that if you possess advanced teaching credentials, the doors to prestigious international schools, private bilingual grade schools, or even colleges and universities may open up for you. These coveted positions often come with attractive salary packages and additional perks that surpass what is typically offered to first-time teachers.
| Salary & Expenses | English Teacher Salary in Oman Details |
|---|---|
| Language School / International School Salary | Between $1,800 and $5,000 USD per month |
| Private Tutoring Salary | $20-$50+ USD per hour |
| Teach English Online Salary | $5-$20 USD per hour |
| Average Cost of Living | $800 – $1,550 USD (300 – 600 OMR) |
| Start-up Costs | Between $1,100 and $1,500 USD |
Let’s explore each option and what you can expect to earn from them:
1. Oman Private Language & International School Salaries
Although Oman is a small country of under 3.5 million residents (many of whom are expatriates), there is still a great demand for English teachers in and around major cities like Muscat. With some of the highest salaries in the world, the job market is quite competitive and hiring standards are high. Many teaching jobs require a degree specifically in education, with a strong preference for those who have previous teaching experience. This often makes Oman a harder market for first-time TEFL-certified teachers to gain employment, especially beginner TEFL teachers with little to no teaching experience.
While the academic year in Oman typically follows the traditional calendar (August – June), it’s important to note that private language institutes catering to adults in the business community may not adhere to the same schedule. These institutes often have a flexible hiring process and may hire teachers throughout the year based on their specific needs. So, if you’re looking to teach English in Oman, keep in mind that there are opportunities available beyond the usual recruitment periods in the winter/spring, allowing for more flexibility in securing a teaching position.
Pay will fluctuate depending on where you are located, with teachers in larger cities like Muscat earning more than those teaching in smaller cities and towns. English teachers working at private language and International schools in Oman can expect to make anywhere between $1,600 – $3,000 USD per month or more if they possess advanced credentials and experience.
Visa Options for Teaching English in Oman
Work Visa for Teaching English in Oman
It is standard practice for English teachers in Oman to receive a sponsored work visa which will be processed in their home country before departure.
2. Oman Private English Tutoring Salaries
Private tutoring ESL students (especially adults) is common among English teachers in Oman and can be lucrative. Teachers who choose this route are often:
- Teaching English in Oman at a private language or International school and taking on some private tutoring students to help supplement their income;
- Teaching English online and seeking supplemental income by privately tutoring students in addition to their online teaching job;
Getting clients for private lessons is a marketing exercise, and all the avenues that seem appropriate to your circumstances have to be explored. In many cases, students or people you encounter in your daily life will approach you asking you for private lessons and tutoring. Here are some ways you can market yourself:
- Post notices in schools and universities, coffee shops, supermarkets, embassies, or corner shops;
- Advertise in local periodicals, especially those that cater to university students, professionals, and ex-pats;
- Send notices to local public schools announcing your willingness to work with local students on their English.
- Compile a list of addresses of professionals (lawyers, architects, etc.), and professional associations who may need English for their work and have the resources to pay for it and then contact them.
- Call on export businesses, distribution companies, and even travel agencies and tourism companies.
- Get ESL business cards made with Arabic on one side and English on the other.
- Enroll in ITA’s English Tutoring Specialty Course. This course will not only provide you with enhanced teaching skills in a private tutoring setting but also incorporates practical guidelines for how to set up your own tutoring business.
- Enroll in ITA’s Teaching Test Prep Skills Specialty Course. Many Omani students seek to study in universities in English-speaking nations and will pay high fees (up to $50 an hour or more) to receive specialized training to prepare for standardized exams they need to pass to gain entry to universities in the US and UK. This course will provide you with the skills you need to help these students maximize their scores on such tests (and boost your resume for higher-paying jobs!).
How much money can I make from private tutoring ESL students in Oman?
If you’re just starting out as a private ESL tutor in Oman, you can expect to charge around $20-$50 USD per hour for one-on-one lessons. This range is quite common and reflects the market rates for private tutoring in the country. However, as you gain more experience and establish yourself as a reputable and effective tutor, there are opportunities to increase your rates.
One way to do this is by teaching small groups of 2-3 students. By splitting the cost among the students, you can justify charging a higher rate per hour. This not only allows you to earn more money but also provides a more interactive and dynamic learning environment for your students.
Another avenue to explore is targeting Omani elites and ex-pat professionals, particularly those working at embassies or multinational corporations. These individuals often have a higher budget for English tutoring and are willing to pay a premium for quality instruction. By marketing yourself to this niche market, you can potentially charge higher rates and earn upwards of $60-$80+ per hour.
It’s important to note that when charging higher rates, you must be able to demonstrate the value and expertise you bring to the table. Emphasize your qualifications, teaching experience, and any specialized training you have received. This will help potential clients understand why they should invest in your services and why your rates are justified.
Ultimately, the key to success as a private ESL tutor in Oman is to continuously improve your teaching skills, market yourself effectively, and deliver exceptional results for your students. As you gain a positive reputation and a loyal client base, you can confidently increase your rates and enjoy a rewarding and financially lucrative career in private tutoring.
PRO TIP! Tutoring English is a multi-billion dollar global market. If you want to take advantage of lucrative opportunities in this field – or even to build your own English tutoring business, ITA highly recommends taking the Tutoring English TEFL Specialty Course.
3. Oman Teaching English Online Salaries
Like private ESL tutoring, teaching English online is an extremely popular way for teachers to make money. Some digital-nomad-style English teachers in Oman teach online as their sole job and income, while others do it to supplement the income they earn from teaching at a private language/ International school or from private tutoring. This could be a great option for you if you are already in Oman – say on your partner or spouse’s work visa – and looking to make extra cash.
Teaching English online provides TEFL-certified teachers with the opportunity to make money from the comfort of their own homes, with most teachers being able to make anywhere from $5-$20 USD per hour. Hours are flexible, and it is up to you how much or how little you teach – you are in control of your schedule.
A key advantage of teaching online is that you can begin teaching and making money before you move to Oman. This is a great way to help cover the start-up costs of your move.
Additional Reading: To learn more about how much you can earn from online ESL teaching, please read How Much Money Can I Make Teaching English Online? Need help to find an online teaching platform? Check out Non-Chinese ESL Companies to Teach English Online With.
Expenses for Teaching English in Oman
Two categories of expenses need to be taken into consideration for those looking to teach English in Oman:
- Start-up costs
- Cost of living
Let’s explore each of the two in more detail.
1. Start-Up Costs for Teaching English in Oman
Start-up costs are expenses you will incur from your arrival in Oman until you receive your first paycheck and may include things like a security deposit and first month’s rent, apartment supplies, transport, groceries, getting your new local cell phone number set up, etc.
Start-up costs to cover your first month of living in Oman will usually range somewhere between $1,100 and $1,500 USD. This is the minimum amount of savings you should have on hand before leaving home and arriving in Oman. If you have more, great, but if you have less, you may find yourself stretched financially.
When planning ahead, it’s important to remember that there are other start-up costs to consider before embarking on your teaching adventure in Oman. These will include the cost of your TEFL certification, airfare to Oman (although sometimes this may be covered by your employer), and any costs associated with obtaining necessary documents like your passport, visa, etc.
2. Cost of Living for Teaching English in Oman
Cost of living refers to everyday monthly expenses you will incur during your time in Oman. The cost of living in Oman is somewhat modest ($800 – $1,550 USD – 300 – 600 OMR) and salaries ($1,600 – $3,000 a month) for first-time ESL teachers are generous. English teachers typically live comfortably on what they earn, but financial planning is still imperative to prepare you for success. The most popular expenses that fall under this category include:
- Monthly rent expenses (although it is common that your employer will provide you with housing and cover your rent)
- Utilities (electricity, gas, water bills, etc)
- Food and grocery expenses
- Health insurance
- Internet bill
- Cell phone bill
- Transportation (transit card, ride-sharing services, etc)
- Travel/entertainment expenses
Your cost of living expenses can vary. On average, English teachers in Oman save up to $800+ USD per month after expenses.
Go further:
- What are the Requirements for Teaching English in Oman
- Teaching English in the Middle East Country Profiles
- Top 5 Countries to Make the Most Money Teaching English Abroad
