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Saudi Arabia · CV guide

How to write a Saudi CV

How to write a CV for Saudi Arabia in 2026: two pages, photo, nationality, Iqama status, Saudization, Vision 2030 sectors and the job boards employers use.

SASaudi ArabiaCV guide · 2026

The short answer

A Saudi CV is usually two pages (more for senior roles), reverse-chronological, with a professional photo, nationality, location and residency (Iqama) status, notice period and languages. Saudization (Nitaqat) shapes hiring, so Saudi nationals should state their nationality clearly, and expatriates should show the specialist skills they bring.

Length
2 pages (3 for senior roles)
Photo
Common
Nationality
Yes
Iqama status
Yes, if you hold one
Languages
Arabic level is a plus
Called
CV

Include

  • Name, phone with country code, email, LinkedIn
  • Nationality and current location
  • Iqama status (for example transferable Iqama) if you're already in the Kingdom
  • Notice period
  • Professional headshot
  • Experience with budgets, teams and project values
  • Arabic and English levels

Leave out

  • Iqama or passport numbers
  • Salary history
  • Casual photos
  • Unrelated personal hobbies

Saudization and who gets hired

The Nitaqat programme requires companies to employ a set share of Saudi nationals, which varies by sector and company size, and some job titles are reserved for Saudis. Expatriate candidates do best in specialist and senior roles where the skills are scarce. Make that scarcity obvious with certifications, project scale and results.

Vision 2030 sectors

Giga-projects, tourism and hospitality, construction, entertainment, healthcare, technology and financial services are all hiring heavily. If you've worked on large or greenfield projects, lead with the project value, scope and outcome.

Transferable Iqama

If you already live and work in Saudi Arabia, a transferable Iqama means a faster and cheaper hire. Say so near the top of your CV.

Where to apply

The job boards and sites most used by employers in Saudi Arabia:

  • LinkedIn
  • Bayt
  • GulfTalent
  • Naukrigulf
  • Indeed Saudi Arabia
  • Jadarat (national jobs platform)

Reviewed by the PenworthCV writing team, October 2026. Conventions change: always follow the instructions in the job ad.

FAQ

Saudi Arabia CV questions

Most private-sector employers and multinationals accept English CVs. Some government and semi-government roles prefer Arabic, so check the job ad.

It's common and often expected. Use a professional headshot in business dress.

It means you hold a Saudi residence permit that can move to a new employer, so you can be hired without a new visa from overseas. Mention it if you have one.

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