Career advice for job seekers in the Gulf
Practical guides on CVs, interviews, salary negotiation and moving to the UAE, written by recruiters who see what works.
Quick guides from our consultants
The advice we give candidates every day, in one place.
Write a CV that gets shortlisted
- Start with a three or four line summary of who you are and what you do best.
- List experience in reverse order, with results in numbers where you can.
- Add your visa status, nationality and notice period, as Gulf employers ask for them.
- Keep the layout simple so applicant tracking systems can read it.
- Save and send it as a PDF unless the employer asks for Word.
Prepare for your interview
- Research the company, its products and its recent news.
- Prepare short examples using the situation, task, action and result format.
- Check the time zone, location and dress code the day before.
- Have two or three thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer.
- Send a short thank you email within a day.
Negotiate your salary and package
- Know the market rate for your role before the first conversation.
- In the UAE, compare the full package: basic salary, housing, transport and other allowances.
- Ask how end of service gratuity is calculated, since it is based on basic salary.
- Check medical insurance cover, annual leave and flight allowance.
- Get the final offer in writing before resigning from your current job.
Move to the UAE for work
- Your employer or agency usually sponsors the employment visa.
- Degree certificates often need to be attested before the visa is processed.
- After arrival you will complete a medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics.
- Plan for your first month of rent, deposits and transport costs.
- Keep copies of your passport, visa, contract and certificates in one place.
Ready for your next move?
Send us your CV and a consultant will contact you when the right role opens. Or browse the jobs we are hiring for now.