Abu Dhabi – and the UAE in general – is one of the most popular destinations for Teach Away educators, and the ADEC, ADVETI, and IAT programs hire hundreds of educators each year to teach in the UAE. It can be tough to keep these programs straight, so keep this quick guide handy!

ADEC

ADEC (Abu Dhabi Education Council) is Abu Dhabi’s ministry of education, the entity that oversees public school education in the emirate. Students in Abu Dhabi public schools receive English-medium education (English immersion) in certain subjects and grade levels.

  • What positions are usually available? Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School Math, Middle School English, Middle School Science, High School Science, Vice Principal, Principal, higher level administration

  • Do I need a teaching license? Yes

  • What are the other requirements? All candidates for teaching positions must have a minimum of two years of experience in that specific subject and grade level. Requirements for higher level administrators vary by job, but candidates will need several years of previous experience in that position.

  • Where are schools located? All schools are located within the emirate of Abu Dhabi, in Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain, or Al Gharbia.

ADVETI

The Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute (ADVETI) is a highly esteemed public vocational institution. Students are at the high school or university level and training in a variety of diploma or certificate programs.

  • What positions are usually available? Many! Current job openings will always vary, but in general, expect to see the following: English, Math, Natural Sciences, Computer Sciences/Engineering, Business, Health Care, Visual Arts, and more.

  • Do I need a teaching license? Not for most positions, although it is preferred

  • What are other requirements? All applicants will need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject field, and a Master’s is preferable. The academic subjects (English, Math, Science) will require a minimum of 3 years of previous teaching experience. Other vocational subjects (Health Care, Business, etc) usually require three years of experience, although this can be a mix of teaching and industry experience.

  • Where are schools located? ADVETI institutes are located in Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain, Al Gharbia, or in the emirate of Sharjah.

IAT

The Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) has campuses across the United Arab Emirates. High school- and university-aged students attend for the chance to receive a career-focused technical education in a largely English environment.

  • What positions are usually available? IAT positions include English, Math, Natural Sciences, and Computer Sciences/Engineering, as well as a varying number of specialized positions.

  • Do I need a teaching license? No

  • What are other requirements? Candidates will need a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant subject field (a Master’s is preferred). English, Math, and Science teachers will need at least 3 years of teaching experience at the high school or college level. Engineering teachers will need either 3 years of teaching experience or 3 years of industry experience.

  • Where are schools located? IAT has campuses in several emirates in the UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi (including Abu Dhabi City and Al Ain), Ras al-Khaimah, and Fujairah.