How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024 (Especially in the UAE)

If you landed on this page, it means you are going to apply for a job and want to write a standout cover letter.

So, what exactly is a job cover letter? It is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience.

Our experts at TalentPoint created this guide to help you answer the question: how to write a cover letter for a job in 2024. Today, a cover letter involves a blend of traditional elements and modern touches to stand out in a competitive job market, especially when applying for jobs in the UAE.

Key Elements of a Cover Letter

1. Mention Your Contact Information

• Your name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Date
• Employer’s name
• Company’s address

1. Mention Proper Salutation

• Address the hiring manager by name (if possible). If not, use a general greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager."

1. Introduction

• Mention the job you are applying for.
• State where you found the job listing.
• Briefly introduce yourself and your interest in the role.

1. Body Paragraphs

• First Paragraph: Highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
• Second Paragraph: Explain why you are a good fit for the company.
• Third Paragraph: Mention any key achievements or projects that are relevant to the job.

1. Conclusion

• Express your enthusiasm for the role.
• Mention that you have attached your resume.
• Request an interview.
• Thank the employer for their time.

1. Signature

• Close with "Sincerely" or "Best regards."
• Include your name.

Writing Tips for a Cover Letter in 2024

1. Personalization [Extremely Important]

• Tailor each cover letter to the job you are applying for.
• Mention the company’s name and address the letter to a specific person.

1. Show Your  Enthusiasm

• Show genuine interest in the company and the role.
• Explain why you want to work there and what excites you about the opportunity.

1. Highlight Relevant Skills

• Focus on skills and experiences that match the job description.
• Use keywords from the job listing.

1. Be Concise

• Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Use short sentences and clear language.

1. Proofread

• Check for spelling and grammar errors.
• Ensure all information is accurate.

Applying for Jobs in the UAE

When applying for jobs in the UAE, there are specific aspects to consider to increase your chances of success.

Understanding the Job Market in the UAE

The UAE has a diverse job market with opportunities in various sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and construction. Understanding the job market will help you tailor your cover letter more effectively.

Key Industries:

• Oil and Gas
• Construction
• Tourism and Hospitality
• Information Technology 
• Healthcare

Popular Job Roles of 2024

• Data Scientists and Analysts
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Specialists
• Cybersecurity Experts
• Project Managers
• Engineers
• IT Specialists
• Nurses and Healthcare Workers
• Sales and Marketing Professionals

Read:- The UAE’s Top 10 In-Demand Job Roles for 2024 (+ How to Apply)

Cultural Considerations for Your Cover Letter

Respecting the local culture is crucial when applying for jobs in the UAE. Here are a few cultural aspects to keep in mind:

1. Formality

• Maintain a formal tone in your cover letter.
• Use professional language and avoid slang.

1. Respect for Authority

• Show respect for hierarchy and authority.
• Address the hiring manager formally.

1. Professional Appearance

• Attach a professional-looking photo if required.
• Dress formally for interviews.

Legal Considerations For Your Cover Letter

1. Work Visa Requirements

• Ensure you meet the visa requirements for working in the UAE.
• Mention your visa status in your cover letter if applicable.

1. Local Experience

• Highlight any previous experience working in the UAE or with UAE-based companies.

1. Language Skills

• Mention your proficiency in English and Arabic if applicable.

Sample Cover Letter

Below is a sample cover letter for a job application in the UAE.

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Date]

[Employer’s Name]

[Company’s Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. With my background in [Your Industry/Field] and my proven track record of [Key Achievements], I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team.

I have over [Number] years of experience in [Your Field/Industry], during which I have developed strong [Relevant Skills]. In my recent role at [Previous Company], I successfully [Brief Description of Key Achievements]. I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s commitment to [Specific Aspect of the Company], and I am eager to bring my expertise in [Relevant Skill/Experience] to your esteemed organization.

At [Previous Company], I led a team of [Number] professionals and managed projects that resulted in [Specific Achievements]. My ability to [Relevant Skill] and [Another Relevant Skill] has consistently enabled me to achieve [Specific Results]. I am excited about the opportunity to leverage these skills at [Company Name].

Enclosed is my resume, which provides further detail about my professional journey. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and certifications align with the needs of your team. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my expertise in [Your Field] to [Company Name] and contribute to your continued success.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

After Creating the Cover Letter: How to Find a Job

Once you've created a compelling cover letter, the next step is to find the right job opportunities. TalentPoint is the best platform in the UAE for discovering job opportunities across various sectors. It offers a user-friendly interface and extensive listings, connecting job seekers with top employers. By using TalentPoint, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect job in the UAE.

Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your Job Application Success in 2024

Writing a cover letter for a job in 2024 requires attention to detail. Personalization and understanding the unique aspects of the UAE job market are also crucial. By following these guidelines and tailoring your cover letter to each job, you can make a strong impression. This approach will increase your chances of landing your desired role.