UAE: Retirees find another reason to stay with new private tuition work

The recently launched private teaching work permit presents an opportunity for retirees, particularly those from the education field, to have a revenue stream.

This avenue allows them to prolong their residency in the UAE even after retiring from their main careers.

This was reiterated by a few UAE residents who have spent years of service in the education profession in the country.

Sajida Al Bashir, who was born in Amman, Jordan, but is originally from Palestine, has called the UAE home for 29 years.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, about the new work permit that legalises private tuitions, this expat who has been an educator for 28 years here explains this initiative gives people from the academia a chance to continue working beyond their current associations.

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“I would definitely want to continue working even after my retirement and this is a great opportunity. I've been thinking whether, after I retire, I'll still be invited to many work events I’m accustomed to attending, or if my contributions might be forgotten over time," Sajida said.

“I also feel many people still value professional development long after their primary career is over. It doesn’t have to cease once your main career has ended,” she added.

Sajida emphasised that despite being approached by numerous parents for private tutorials, she consistently turned them down because it wasn’t legally permissible and she lacked the time.

‘Teaching is what I know best’

“Once a teacher, you continue being an educator for the rest of your life and you build contacts at a place over the years. Teaching is what I know best, and I won’t stop being one (teacher) after I retire,” said the Assistant Head Teacher at Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai.

She noted that parents are also on a perpetual lookout for good teachers “who possess expertise and experience.”

A mother of four, Sajida has been instrumental in the advancement of progressive teaching methodologies in Arabic across the UAE and beyond.

“If our skills can be used to monetise and help ourselves and our families with an income source after retirement, then it’s the best thing to happen. I can continue living for many more years in this country that I’ve called home,” said the 49-year-old educator, who also calls herself a lifelong learner.

The teacher of Islamic Education, Arabic, and Social Studies also highlighted the importance of continuous self-improvement and expanding connections beyond one's existing affiliations.

“To grow personally, it's essential to focus ahead and invest in self-development which can also then financially stand one in good stead. This country truly provides avenues for individuals to create a more inclusive society, enabling people to thrive beyond their professional careers and I would certainly want to explore this option.”

There is hope

Similarly, 61-year-old Indumathi Gokulan started her career as a teacher in the UAE in 1993.

• New UAE work permit: Parents hail 'legal, less expensive' tuition for children