Become a Tutor in Dubai: Everything You Need to Know
Oostadoo Team
Published on November 18, 2025
Dubai's education sector is booming, creating exceptional opportunities for qualified tutors. With over 200 nationalities and diverse curricula (British, American, IB, French, Indian), the demand for private tutoring has never been higher. This guide covers everything you need to know to start your tutoring career in Dubai.
Requirements and Documentation
Essential Documents
- Emirates ID – Mandatory for all UAE residents. Required for identity verification on tutoring platforms.
- Educational Certificates – Bachelor's degree minimum in your teaching subject. Attested copies preferred.
- Teaching Certification (Recommended) – PGCE, B.Ed, or equivalent enhances credibility and allows higher rates.
Important Note on Visa Requirements
Visa and licensing requirements depend on your residency status, employment situation, and how you deliver lessons. We recommend consulting with PRO services or the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHRE) for guidance specific to your situation.
Qualifications That Matter
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in the subject you teach
- Fluent English (or Arabic for Arabic tutoring)
- Strong communication skills
- Reliable internet connection for online sessions
What Sets You Apart
- Master's degree or PhD
- Teaching experience in schools (2+ years)
- Curriculum-specific training (IB certified, Cambridge trained)
- Exam marking experience
- Published educational content
Most In-Demand Subjects
- Mathematics (all levels)
- Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- English Language and Literature
- Arabic (for non-native speakers)
- French
- Test Prep (IELTS, SAT, EMSAT)
Earning Potential in Dubai
Monthly Income Ranges:
Factors Affecting Income
- Subject demand (STEM pays more)
- Curriculum expertise (IB/A-Level specialists earn premiums)
- Availability during peak hours (evenings, weekends)
- Reviews and reputation
- Consistency and reliability
Peak Seasons
- September-November: Back to school
- January-March: Mock exams
- April-June: Final exams
- Summer: Slower, but test prep (IELTS, SAT) remains steady
Platform vs Independent Tutoring
Tutoring Platforms
Like Oostadoo
Advantages:
- • Steady flow of students
- • Secure payment processing
- • Scheduling tools
- • Review system builds credibility
- • Weekly payouts
Considerations:
- • Platform fees apply
- • Must follow platform policies
Independent Tutoring
On your own
Advantages:
- • Keep 100% of earnings
- • Set all your own terms
- • Direct client relationships
Considerations:
- • Must find your own clients
- • Handle payments (risk of non-payment)
- • No review system
- • Administrative burden
Recommendation
Start with a platform to build reviews and experience, then consider a hybrid approach as you establish yourself.
Building Your Reputation
Profile Essentials
- Professional Photo – Clear headshot, friendly expression, neutral background. No selfies.
- Compelling Bio – Highlight qualifications, teaching philosophy, and student success stories.
- Detailed Subject Listings – Specify curricula (IB, GCSE, American, French), grade levels, and topics you excel at.
- Availability – Keep your calendar updated. Students book tutors who respond quickly.
Getting Your First Reviews
- Offer competitive rates initially
- Over-deliver on first sessions
- Follow up with parents after lessons
- Ask satisfied clients for reviews
- Respond professionally to any feedback
Maintaining 5-Star Status
- Always be punctual (join calls 2 minutes early)
- Prepare customized materials for each student
- Communicate clearly with parents
- Be flexible with rescheduling (within reason)
- Continuously improve your teaching methods
Essential Tools for Online Tutoring
Hardware
- • Laptop or desktop with webcam
- • Quality microphone
- • Stable internet (minimum 10 Mbps)
- • Good lighting (ring light recommended)
Software
- • Video platform (Zoom, Google Meet)
- • Digital whiteboard (Miro, Jamboard)
- • Screen sharing
- • File sharing (Google Drive)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 1. Underpricing – Signals low quality. Charge what you're worth.
- 2. Overcommitting – Don't accept more students than you can handle well.
- 3. Poor Communication – Respond to messages within 24-48 hours.
- 4. No Lesson Structure – Always have a plan for each session.
- 5. Ignoring Parents – Regular updates build trust and retention.
- 6. Skipping Preparation – Know your student's needs before each session.
Final Thoughts
Tutoring in Dubai offers excellent earning potential with flexibility. Success requires more than subject knowledge – it demands professionalism, communication skills, and genuine care for student outcomes.
Start with realistic expectations, focus on building reviews, and continuously refine your teaching approach. The tutors who thrive are those who treat it as a profession, not a side gig. Invest in your skills, maintain high standards, and the students (and income) will follow.
Ready to Start Your Tutoring Career?
Join Oostadoo as a verified teacher. Set your own rates, teach online from anywhere, and get paid weekly. We handle payments, scheduling, and student matching – you focus on teaching.