Yes, adding a photo to your CV is generally a good idea for job applications in the UAE. Unlike some countries where CV photos are discouraged, in the UAE and other parts of the Middle East.
It’s often expected, and sometimes preferred, by employers. Including a professional-looking photo can help personalize your application and create a strong first impression.
Why Photos Are Common in UAE CVs
In the UAE job market, employers often value a well-presented CV that includes not just your qualifications and experience but also a polished profile photo. It adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve put care into presenting yourself.
This is especially true for industries like hospitality, aviation, media, sales, and customer service, where appearance and personal presentation matter in the role.
What Type of Photo Should You Use?
When adding a photo, make sure it looks professional. Use a high-quality headshot with a neutral background. Wear clean, workplace-appropriate clothing and maintain a friendly, confident expression.
Avoid selfies, casual photos, or images with filters. Your photo should reflect how you’d appear in a formal job interview: neat, confident, and approachable. A well-composed photo shows that you’re serious about your application and aware of what professional standards are expected in the UAE workplace. This small detail can have a big impact on how your CV is perceived.
Where to Place the Photo on Your CV
Keep the size moderate, not too big to take over the document, but visible enough to be recognized clearly. Usually, a small square in the top corner near your name and contact details works best.
Design and ATS Compatibility
Also, make sure your image doesn’t interfere with the readability of the text. A well-formatted layout should have your image placed cleanly and not disrupt the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) reading process. Use formats like Word or PDF that support clean alignment and text flow.
When You Should Skip the Photo
While adding a photo is common in the UAE, make sure the rest of your CV is just as strong. Your skills, experience, and achievements should still be the main focus. The photo simply helps complete your presentation.
In cases where a job listing specifically asks you not to include a photo, or if it’s a job with an international company based in the UAE that follows Western HR standards, then it’s better to skip the photo to follow their preferences.
Bonus Tip for Newcomers to the UAE
For fresh graduates and professionals new to the UAE, adding a good photo also shows that you’re aware of local expectations and trends. It helps your CV feel more relevant and suited to the region.
Make Your CV Photo-Ready With Oxford CV
Creating a strong, professional CV with the right format and presentation is important, and that’s exactly where Oxford CV comes in. Our templates are built to match UAE hiring standards, including layouts that support profile photos cleanly and professionally.
We take the stress out of CV writing and help you make a confident first impression with expert writers, region-aware advice, and fast delivery. Many of our clients have shared excellent reviews about their results, praising the quality and presentation they received.
Let us help you stand out with a photo CV that’s both professional and region-ready, perfectly aligned with what employers expect in the UAE market.