What is ATS and Why Does It Matter in UAE?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software programs used by companies to filter CVs before a recruiter reads them. In the UAE, approximately 70% of large companies use some form of ATS.
Companies including Emirates, Etisalat (e&), ADNOC, Dubai Government entities, and most multinationals operating in DIFC use ATS to manage high application volumes.
The 10-Point ATS Checklist
Use this before submitting any application:
Format
- Saved as PDF (unless employer requests Word)
- No tables, text boxes, or columns
- No images or graphics in the CV body
- Standard readable font (Arial, Calibri, 10-12pt)
Content
- Job title in your CV matches the role you're applying for
- Keywords from the job description appear naturally in your CV
- Standard section headings (Experience, Education, Skills)
- Dates in consistent format (Month Year – Month Year)
Contact Details
- Professional email address
- UAE mobile number with country code (+971)
How MakeMyCV Handles ATS
Every CV built with MakeMyCV is automatically formatted to pass ATS screening. No tables, no graphics, clean text output — exactly what automated systems need to read your CV.