1. Follow the advert’s language and file instructions
Use the language requested by the employer. If the advert is in English and gives no other instruction, a clear English CV is a practical starting point. Keep a separate Arabic version when requested; do not squeeze two complete languages into the same page.
Keep employer names, qualifications and job titles accurate when translating. Write your Arabic and English proficiency separately and honestly. A translated document does not demonstrate language fluency.
2. Put the useful information first
For an experienced applicant, start with contact details, a short targeted profile and relevant skills, followed by experience, education and certificates. For a graduate, move relevant education, projects and training above an empty work-history section.
- Contact: name, current city, reachable phone with country code, professional email and a relevant portfolio or LinkedIn link.
- Profile: the role you are targeting, relevant experience and the tools or responsibilities you can evidence.
- Experience: job title, employer, month/year dates and concise examples of your contribution.
- Education and credentials: exact qualification, institution and relevant dates. State professional registration only when applicable and current.
3. Replace broad claims with evidence
An administrator applying to a Riyadh office can explain the records, schedules or requests they handled. A customer-service applicant can describe the channels, enquiries and follow-up they managed. A developer can name the system, tools and contribution they delivered.
Use numbers only when you can support them. A specific task is more useful than an invented percentage. Treat the example below as a writing pattern, not a claim to copy into your own CV.
4. Check readability before you send
Use clear headings and selectable text. Avoid putting your phone number, skills or experience only inside images. Copy a paragraph out of your exported PDF to check that it remains readable, then inspect the document on your phone.
Follow the employer’s requested file type and size limit. A readable PDF is useful when accepted; submit DOCX when specifically requested. ATS checks offer editing guidance, not a guarantee of acceptance or an interview.
5. Keep personal details proportionate
A broadly shared CV does not need your national ID or Iqama number, passport scan, bank details or full home address. State your current city and relevant availability accurately. If an employer requests eligibility documents, verify the organisation and use its secure application process.
Photo preferences vary. Follow explicit employer instructions and keep essential experience as text. Do not assume a photo, nationality statement or a particular page count is mandatory for every Saudi vacancy.
Before you apply
- Match the target job title and relevant skills truthfully.
- Check your city, phone country code and email.
- Use consistent month/year dates and clear headings.
- Check the requested language, file type and file size.
- Read the PDF on a phone and test that its text can be selected.
Common questions
Should a Saudi CV be in Arabic or English?
Follow the vacancy. Keep separate versions if you apply in both languages, and review translated titles and qualifications carefully.
Does a CV need a Saudi phone number?
Use a number where you can actually be reached, with its correct country code. Do not imply that you live in Saudi Arabia if you are applying from abroad.
Will an ATS score guarantee an interview?
No. It can help you review structure and relevant wording. Employer requirements, experience and selection decisions still determine the outcome.