What to Wear for a Job Interview in the Gulf (Qatar, UAE, KSA). In the Gulf region, how you dress for a job interview matters just as much as what you say.. Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia may have diverse workplaces, but they share one thing in common when it comes to interviews: professional, modest, and polished attire is expected.
Wear for a Job Interview
First impressions count. And in a region where respect and presentation go hand in hand, your clothing and grooming can affect your hiring chances. Here’s a complete 2025 guide to what to wear (and what not to) when attending job interviews in the Gulf.
1. Understand the Culture and Company Type
Wear for a Job Interview: Gulf countries like Qatar and the UAE value clean, modest, and respectful clothing, especially for in-person interviews. But your outfit should also reflect the type of job you’re applying for. Examples:
- For construction, technical, or logistics jobs → smart casual or neat workwear
- For admin, sales, or hospitality → formal or business casual
- For senior roles → full business suit or national dress
2. What Men Should Wear to an Interview in the Gulf
For Office and Corporate Jobs:
- Plain or lightly patterned button-down shirt (preferably white, light blue, or grey)
- Dark-colored trousers (navy, black, charcoal)
- Closed shoes (clean and polished)
- Optional: Simple tie or blazer
- No sneakers, slippers, or flashy watches
For Technical or On-Site Jobs:
- A clean polo or collared shirt
- Ironed trousers (not jeans)
- Simple belt and basic shoes
Grooming:
- Trim your hair and beard (if applicable)
- No strong perfumes
- Nails are clean and cut
3. What Women Should Wear to an Interview in the Gulf
Wear for a Job Interview: Whether you wear Western or modest attire, focus on professionalism and comfort.
For Office/Corporate Jobs:
- Long-sleeved blouse with full-length trousers or skirt below the knee
- Closed-toe shoes (heels optional)
- Optional: light makeup, minimal jewellery
- Avoid bright colours, sleeveless tops, or tight-fitting outfits
For Healthcare or Technical Jobs:
- Ironed tunic or smart top with modest trousers
- Hair tied neatly
- Comfortable footwear (especially for medical interviews)
Hijab or abaya is welcome but not required unless stated in the role.
4. What NOT to Wear (Men & Women)
- Jeans, especially ripped or faded
- Graphic t-shirts or loud prints
- Strong cologne or perfume
- Sandals, flip-flops, or Crocs
- Transparent or tight clothing
- Flashy accessories or logos
The goal is to respect the regional culture and keep the focus on your skills.
5. Dress for Virtual Interviews Too
If your interview is on Zoom or Google Meet:
- Dress like it’s a real interview
- Sit against a clean background
- Wear a full outfit (not just shirt + pyjamas!)
- Use good lighting and avoid distractions
First impressions on video are just as important as in person.
6. Match the Company Vibe, But Stay Formal
Wear for a Job Interview: Not all companies in the Gulf are ultra-formal.
- If it’s a startup or creative agency → business casual is OK
- For hotels, clinics, construction firms → more formal is expected
- For government or semi-gov roles, → better to dress up
When in doubt, dress slightly more formal than expected.
7. Don’t Forget Your Documents
Style alone won’t get you hired. Prepare these as well:
📄 Printed resume (2 copies)
🪪 Passport copy
📄 Trade or degree certificate
📸 Passport-size photo
📋 Experience letters or reference if asked
Place all in a neat, clear folder or document envelope.
Final Thought: Look Sharp, Feel Confident
Wear for a Job Interview: When you look good, you feel good, and that confidence shows during the interview.
Dressing well tells employers:
- You’re serious
- You respect their culture
- You’re ready for the job
Need Help Preparing for Interviews in Qatar?
At Mahad Manpower Qatar, we support job seekers with:
- Resume writing
- Interview coaching
- Dress code & etiquette tips
- Verified job placement across sectors
📤 Submit your resume today: www.mahadmanpower.com
📞 WhatsApp: +974 7791 2324
🌐 www.mahadjobs.com