Filipinos and Indians as English Language Teachers in the Emirates: A Phenomenology

Non-native English speakers, venturing abroad to work as teachers, have drastically grown in number. In the United Arab Emirates, a country that regards vital aspect of progress and sustainability home more than 200 nationalities, Filipino Indian teachers found their platform practice profession, while facing reality such openly prefers hire native speakers over non-native ones. Hence, this study was conducted explore lived experiences 12 (six Filipinos six Indians) context working language UAE. Responses, collected through in-depth interviews, were analyzed shed light on overarching question. Findings revealed informants came UAE earn bigger salary, grow personally professionally, enhance communication skills. Furthermore, issues challenges experienced by these clustered into personal matters (homesickness, new environment adjustments, barriers) professional (preference for curriculum adjustment, classroom environment, teacher-parent connection). Data also unraveled coping mechanisms informants: recalling motivations, building connections, utilizing various teaching approaches, practicing cultural sensitivity. Finally, reflected insights categorized themes unlimited learning, vs. speakers’ salary difference, uninterested learners, importance understanding contract. Based findings, implications administrative pedagogical practices explicated, leading recommendations future research phenomenon teacher migration.