As schools across the UAE prepare to reopen on August 25, education leaders are emphasizing that retaining teachers requires more than competitive salaries. Career development, professional mobility, and recognition of teaching as a respected profession are seen as essential factors for long-term teacher satisfaction.
Background
Dino Varkey, Group CEO of Gems Education, underscored this point during the annual Gems Awareness Day at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai. He noted that while financial benefits remain important, professional development opportunities and an ecosystem of support often play a stronger role in retention.
Key Highlights
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UAE schools stress career growth and respect as key to retention.
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Gems Education hires 1,700 new teachers from 70+ countries.
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Teacher turnover at Gems (15%) is well below global benchmarks.
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Professional development programs like Gems Talent Academy launched.
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UNESCO projects global need for 44 million new teachers by 2030.
Latest Developments in UAE Education
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Gems Education has hired over 1,700 new teachers from 70+ countries for the 2024–25 academic year.
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The group receives more than 600,000 applications annually, filling about 2,000 vacancies, reflecting its global appeal as an education employer.
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Teacher turnover at Gems averages around 15%, significantly below the global international school benchmark of 25%.
Professional Growth and Recognition
Varkey highlighted the importance of raising the profile of teaching
“If you can provide teachers with an ecosystem where they feel challenged, trusted, and supported, they will stay. Society must once again celebrate teaching as a respected vocation.”
Lisa Crausby OBE, Group Chief Education Officer at Gems, added that salary alone is not the main driver
“It’s about growth, professional development, and opportunities for advancement. That’s why we’re launching the Gems Talent Academy, ensuring strong pathways for every teacher.”
Flexible Compensation and Strategic Support
Crausby noted that while salary adjustments may be needed in specific cases — such as retaining specialized teachers in high-demand fields like physics — flexible strategies, allowances, and growth opportunities are equally important.
Impact on the UAE Community
By focusing on professional recognition and development, UAE schools are strengthening the education sector’s ability to attract top talent globally. This approach ensures students benefit from motivated, highly qualified educators, furthering the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for quality education.
Addressing Teacher Shortages
A UNESCO report highlights the need for 44 million additional teachers worldwide by 2030 to achieve universal education. Varkey emphasized that technology, AI, and new learning systems will be crucial in bridging this gap, ensuring that education evolves to meet future needs.
FAQs
Q: When do UAE schools reopen?
Ans: Schools across the UAE reopen on Monday, August 25, 2025.
Q: What is the main focus for teacher retention?
Ans: Beyond salary, professional development, career pathways, and respect for the teaching profession are key.
Q: How many new teachers has Gems Education hired this year?
Ans: More than 1,700 teachers from over 70 countries have joined for the 2024–25 academic year.
Q: What is the global benchmark for teacher turnover?
Ans: International schools typically report a 25% turnover rate; Gems maintains a significantly lower 15%.
Q: How is technology helping address global teacher shortages?
Ans: AI, machine learning, and digital education systems are expected to support teachers and bridge workforce gaps.
Wrapping Up
By valuing professional growth and elevating the prestige of teaching, UAE schools are setting a model for sustainable teacher retention. This forward-looking approach not only strengthens the education sector but also enriches the learning experience for students across the nation.
