Get Noticed in Dubai: Craft Your UAE CV
May 9, 2025
Copy Link
Sources
24
Show Sources in Text
So, you're eyeing a job in Dubai or the wider UAE? Fantastic choice! But hold on – before you dive headfirst into applications, let's talk about your most crucial tool: your CV. The job market here is buzzing, attracting talent from all corners of the globe, making it incredibly competitive 
[4]
[13]. Your CV isn't just a document; it's your personal marketing campaign in this unique landscape. Forget sending that standard Western resume; the UAE has its own set of expectations, often including things like photos and specific personal details that might surprise you. This guide will break down exactly how to craft a CV that gets noticed by Dubai recruiters, based entirely on local expectations and practices.
Why a Standard CV Isn't Enough for the UAE
You might wonder, "Why can't I just use my usual CV?" Here's the thing: recruiters in Dubai have specific preferences shaped by the local business environment. Cultural nuances subtly influence how applications are screened, and understanding this can make a huge difference. Simply put, a CV tailored to UAE expectations significantly boosts your visibility and your chances of landing that interview. It shows you've done your homework and are serious about fitting into the local professional scene.
The Dubai Standard: CV Format and Length
First impressions matter, and in Dubai, a clean, professional CV layout is preferred 
[24][4]
[9]
[22]. Steer clear of overly creative or complex designs; think traditional and easy to read [24][4]. Stick to standard professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, keeping the size between 10-12 points 
[3][13]
[6]
[15][4]. Consistency is key – maintain uniform formatting, allow for ample white space, use bold or italics sparingly (mostly for headings), and keep margins around 1 inch [9]
[12][13][15][22]. For Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), a simple single-column layout works best [22].
What about length? While conciseness is always good, Dubai employers often expect a bit more detail than their Western counterparts [24][15]
[21]
[1]
[7]
[11]. Two pages is the generally accepted standard, especially for junior to mid-level roles [24]
[18][3][4][9][13][15][21]
[16][1][11]
[2]. If you're a senior professional with extensive experience, stretching to three pages might be acceptable, but ensure every piece of information adds value [24][18][16].
Essential CV Sections: What to Include (and How)
Contact Information: Getting the Basics Right
This section sits right at the top [3][9]. Include your full name, making sure it matches your LinkedIn profile. Provide professional contact details: your phone number (use the +971 UAE code if applicable) and a professional email address [24][3][9][13][21][1][4][11]. Clearly state your current location (City, Country) [24][3][9][13][21][1]. Adding a link to your polished LinkedIn profile is also a good idea [3][9][21][1][4][11].
Personal Details: The UAE Specifics
•
The CV Photo: Yes or No in Dubai?
To include a photo or not? In the UAE, the answer is generally yes. It's a common practice and often preferred, particularly for roles involving customer interaction [3][4][13][15][21][1][16]. If you include one, make sure it's a professional, high-quality headshot – think passport-style but with a friendly, confident expression [13][15][1][4][11]. Use a neutral background and wear professional attire [13][15][4][11]. The photo is typically placed in the top right corner [3][4][13][15][21]. Definitely avoid selfies or casual photos [1].
Professional Summary/Objective: Your Elevator Pitch
Right after your contact/personal details, add a brief professional summary or objective [3][4][13][18][21][9][11][16]. This is your 3-4 line snapshot highlighting your key skills, years of experience, major achievements, and career goals [3][4][13][18][21][9][11][16]. Crucially, tailor this section to the specific job you're applying for and the UAE market context [3][12][13][4][9][11]
[17]. Weave in relevant keywords from the job description here [3][12][13]. Experienced professionals usually opt for a summary, while entry-level candidates might use an objective statement [16].
Work Experience: Showcasing Your Impact
This is arguably the most important section [24]. List your jobs in reverse-chronological order – most recent first [24][3][9][13][21][4][11][15][16]. For each role, include your Job Title, the Company Name, its Location (City, Country), and the Dates you were employed [24][3][1][4][11]. If the company isn't well-known locally, add a brief description to provide context [24][1]. Use bullet points to detail your responsibilities and, more importantly, your achievements [3][4][9][21][7][15]. Start each bullet with a strong action verb and quantify your accomplishments with numbers and metrics whenever possible (e.g., "Managed a team of 10," "Increased efficiency by 15%") [3][9][12][15][1][4][17]. Tailor this section heavily, highlighting experience relevant to the target role and the UAE/GCC market [9][13][15]
[5]. If you have local or regional experience, make sure it stands out [3][13]. Don't forget to explain any significant gaps in your employment history [1].
Education, Skills, Languages & Certifications
List your Education in reverse-chronological order: Degree, Field of Study, Institution Name, Location, and Dates [13][3][1][4]. If your university is prestigious but perhaps not globally famous, briefly explain its standing [1]. Create a dedicated Skills section for both technical (hard) and soft skills [3][13][18][4][11][15]. Use bullet points for clarity and align the skills listed with keywords from the job description [12][21][4][11][7][15]. List the Languages you speak along with your proficiency level; English and Arabic are particularly valuable [3][4][13][18][21][1][15][17]. Finally, include relevant professional Certifications/Licenses, especially internationally recognized ones (like PMP, CPA) or those issued by UAE authorities [3][13][15][21][12][1][4][17].
References & Attachments: What Recruiters Expect
Keep it simple here. The standard phrase is "References available upon request" [4][21]. Only provide actual contact details for references if the employer specifically asks for them [21]. (Though some sources suggest listing 2-3 references might be acceptable [13]). Crucially, do not attach copies of your passport, degree certificates, or other personal documents with your initial application unless explicitly requested [1].
Beating the Bots: ATS Optimization for Your UAE CV
Many companies in Dubai use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs before a human even sees them [24][4][12]. To get past these digital gatekeepers, keep your formatting clean and simple – a single-column layout is best [4][12][22]. Avoid graphics, tables, columns, headers, or footers that can confuse the software [4][12][22]. Keywords are vital; carefully read the job description and naturally incorporate relevant terms related to skills and responsibilities throughout your CV [4][12][18][21]
[23][11]
[19]. Use standard section headings like "Work Experience" or "Skills" [12]. Save your final CV as a .docx file or a text-selectable .pdf [22].
Final Polish: Accuracy, Professionalism, and Proofreading
Remember to tailor your CV for every single application; generic CVs rarely make the cut [3][4][12][18][2][7]
[8]
[10][11]
[14][17][19]
[20]. Honesty is critical – background checks are common in the UAE, so ensure all information is accurate and avoid exaggeration [4]. Maintain a professional tone throughout your CV and use a professional-sounding email address [4]. Lastly, proofread meticulously. Typos and grammatical errors can create a negative impression before you even get a foot in the door [4]. Double-check, then check again!
Try It for Free