How to Write a CV in Syria: Format & Guide 2026

Syria's job market has been significantly shaped by conflict and displacement, but professional activity continues in Damascus, Aleppo, and the north. Arabic is the official language and is used for most professional CVs within Syria. English is required for international organisations, UN agencies, and foreign companies. The CV format follows Arabic-language conventions: formal, photo-included, and comprehensive in personal details by regional standards.

The Syria CV Format

CVs in Syria are typically one to two pages, written in Arabic for domestic employers and public sector institutions. For international organisations, NGOs, and foreign companies operating in Syria or recruiting Syrian professionals internationally, English is the expected language. Reverse-chronological order is standard.

For Arabic CVs, the document is right-to-left formatted, uses Arabic typography consistently, and follows the standard regional personal information convention. For English CVs targeting diaspora employment or international organisations, use a standard European or American format.

Language and Personal Information

Arabic is the primary language for domestic professional applications. English is required for international organisations, UN agencies, and foreign-owned companies. For applications to EU or Gulf employers recruiting Syrians, both Arabic and English versions may be requested.

Include: full name (in both Arabic and English for bilingual applications), city, phone number (with country code for international applications), and email address. Date of birth is standard. Nationality is included. Marital status is commonly listed on Arabic CVs.

Professional Photo

A professional headshot is expected on Syrian CVs for most domestic applications, following regional Arab conventions. Use a recent, formal photograph with a neutral background and professional attire. For international organisation applications submitted through online portals, a photo is generally not required.

Education

List qualifications in reverse chronological order. Syria's most recognised institutions are Damascus University, the country's oldest and largest public university, founded in 1903, Aleppo University (University of Aleppo), Tishreen University in Lattakia, Al-Baath University in Homs, and University of Damascus Faculty of Medicine, which has regional prestige. Many Syrian professionals hold degrees from universities in Egypt, Jordan, Russia, Germany, and the UK. For diaspora and internationally-based Syrians, degrees from host-country universities are naturally primary.

Include the institution name, degree, field of study, and year of completion. In Arabic CVs, use the Arabic name of the institution.

Work Experience

List employment in reverse chronological order. For each role, provide employer name, job title, employment dates, and three to five bullet points covering responsibilities and achievements. For development and humanitarian sector roles, specify the project, donor, and scope.

Employers and organisations recognised by Syrian recruiters include the Government of Syria (ministries), Syrian Arab Airlines, Syriatel (telecommunications, largest mobile operator), MTN Syria, Commercial Bank of Syria (CBS), Real Estate Bank of Syria, Sham Holding (private conglomerate), and international organisations including UNDP Syria, UNICEF Syria, WFP Syria, WHO Syria, UNHCR Syria, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and Syria Relief.

Key Sectors

Prior to 2011, Syria had diversified sectors in manufacturing, textiles, petrochemicals, agriculture, and tourism. In the current context, the international humanitarian sector is the primary employer of professionally qualified Syrians within Syria. In the diaspora, Syrians are highly represented in medicine, engineering, IT, and academic research. Remittances and diaspora-linked business remain economically significant.

Skills and Certifications

List language skills, technical competencies, and professional certifications. Arabic is essential; English is highly valued and often required for advancement. French, Russian, and German proficiency is an asset in certain academic and international contexts. For engineering professionals, membership in the Syrian Engineers Syndicate is relevant for domestic roles. For medical professionals, registration with the Syrian Medical Association is required. For international development roles, M&E skills, UN reporting experience, and project management certifications (PMP) are specifically valued.

Declaration

An authenticity declaration at the end of the CV is standard for Syrian domestic applications: "أقرّ بصحة جميع المعلومات الواردة في هذه السيرة الذاتية." (I certify the accuracy of all information contained in this CV.) For English CVs: "I certify that all information provided is true and accurate."

Cover Letter

A cover letter is expected for most professional applications. In Arabic for domestic employers; in English for international organisations. One page is the standard length. Address it to the specific hiring manager or department. For international NGO and UN applications, carefully read the competency requirements in the job description and address them directly in the letter.

Common CV Mistakes in Syria

• Wrong language: Submitting an English CV to a domestic employer that requires Arabic, or vice versa, signals poor preparation.
• No quantified achievements: Specific outcomes and numbers are far more persuasive than responsibility lists.
• Omitting diaspora context for international applications: Syrian professionals applying internationally should note the country context of their experience (e.g. "during active conflict" or "managing remote operations from [country]") where relevant.
• Photo for international NGO applications: Follow the specific application instructions; international portals typically do not require or want a photo in the CV.
• Outdated contact information: Ensure your phone number includes the correct country code and that your email is actively monitored.