When preparing your CV for job applications in the Gulf region, one question often comes up. Should you include a photo or not?
The answer is not as straightforward as it seems. While some countries expect it, others prefer CVs without pictures. Understanding what employers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other Gulf countries expect will help you present yourself professionally and increase your chances of landing interviews.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of adding a photo to your CV and when it is appropriate in the Gulf job market.
Why Some Job Seekers Add a Photo
Including a photo on a CV can make your resume more personal and visually engaging. A clean, professional headshot might help hiring managers remember your application, especially if they are scanning through hundreds of candidates.
Here are a few reasons why some people choose to add a photo:
To personalize the application and create a connection
To align with local expectations, especially in some industries
To show professionalism, particularly for client-facing roles
A photo may be more common for roles in hospitality, aviation, sales, and public relations, where appearance and personal presentation are part of the job.
Reasons to Avoid Adding a Photo
On the other hand, many employers prefer resumes without photos. They want to focus on qualifications and experience rather than appearance.
Here are the main concerns with adding a photo:
Unconscious bias can affect how your application is reviewed
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) often ignore or misread photo elements
International companies may have strict no-photo policies to promote fairness
A poor-quality photo may hurt your impression more than help it
If you choose to include a photo, it must be professionally taken. No selfies, filters, or casual backgrounds.
What Gulf Employers Prefer
In the Gulf region, CV expectations vary depending on the industry and employer.
UAE and Qatar: Including a photo is optional but commonly seen. It is more accepted in customer-facing sectors and less common in finance, IT, and government roles.
Saudi Arabia: Traditionally not commonly seen. Photos are often avoided unless specifically requested. It is best to focus on qualifications and let the employer ask if they need a photo.
Recruitment agencies: Some agencies request photos to include in candidate profiles, especially if hiring for hospitality or events. In these cases, always ask whether it is necessary before submitting your CV.
What Kind of Photo Works Best
If you decide to include a photo, follow these simple guidelines:
Use a professional headshot: Face the camera with a neutral or slight smile
Dress appropriately: Match the industry’s dress code (formal or smart casual)
Choose a plain background: Avoid distractions or personal items in the frame
High resolution: Blurry or pixelated images will damage your professional image
Your photo should be placed neatly at the top right or left corner of your CV and sized appropriately, usually around passport-photo dimensions.
When Not to Include a Photo
Avoid including a photo if:
The job posting specifically asks not to
You are applying to a multinational firm with global hiring policies
You are submitting your CV through an ATS portal
You do not have a high-quality professional photo
In these situations, your experience, achievements, and skills should speak for you. Focus on a clean format, strong action verbs, and relevant keywords for better results.
Adding a photo to your CV is a personal decision and depends on the industry, the company culture, and the specific job. In the Gulf, it is neither mandatory nor frowned upon across the board. The key is to understand what is expected in your target field and to always choose professionalism over style.
If you are unsure, start with a no-photo version and only include one when requested or relevant to the role. And remember, whether your CV has a photo or not, your skills and story are what truly matter.
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