One of the questions we get most: “Should I write my CV in Arabic or English?” The answer depends on the type of employer and the language of the ad, and in the UAE market it is often: both.
When do you need an English CV?
- When applying to private and international companies, most of whose ads are in English.
- When applying through LinkedIn and the major job sites.
- For roles dealing with customers of many nationalities, such as customer service, hospitality and aviation.
When do you need an Arabic CV?
- When applying to some government and semi-government entities that publish their ads in Arabic.
- When the ad is in Arabic or explicitly asks for an Arabic CV.
- For roles serving a mainly Arabic-speaking public, such as some reception, education and service roles.
Why it's better to have both
- Readiness: you never miss an opportunity because the requested version isn't ready.
- Proof of language skills: two professional versions show in practice that you master both languages, a strong advantage in the UAE.
- The interview: it may start in one language and switch to the other, and knowing your CV's terms in both helps.
Common mistakes with the two versions
- Literal translation: a phrase that sounds professional in Arabic can become awkward in English. Each language has its own professional phrasing.
- Inconsistency: different dates or titles between the versions raise doubts.
- Mixed text direction: in the Arabic version, English numbers and emails need correct formatting so the line order doesn't break.
- Ignoring keywords: each language has the terms screening systems look for, so don't just translate words.
Practical tip
Both versions ready in minutes
At zTraining Club we prepare your ATS-friendly CV in Arabic and English together, with professional phrasing for each language and matching details, which you review before delivery, in under 10 minutes. You can also order both versions with a job-targeted evaluation for the role you are aiming for.
FAQ
Should my CV be in Arabic or English in the UAE?
Most private companies ask for English, while some government entities prefer Arabic. It's best to have both and use the language of the ad.
Is translating my CV from Arabic to English enough?
Literal translation usually produces weak phrasing. It's better to rewrite each version in professional language while keeping the details identical.
Can ATS systems read an Arabic CV?
It depends on the system. That's why a simple format in both versions is recommended, plus an English version for companies using global systems.