If you use the section, be specific and purposeful: a hobby that signals a relevant skill, leadership, or cultural fit is worth a line, while reading and travelling say nothing. For graduates, a short, genuine interests line can add personality and conversation starters. For senior CVs, cut it and give the space to results. Where every line should earn its place: ATS-friendly CV guide.
Hobbies and Interests on a CV
Whether to include hobbies and interests on a CV depends on space and relevance. For most experienced professionals in the Gulf, the space is better spent on achievements, and generic hobbies add little. Include them only when they are genuinely relevant, distinctive, or when you are a graduate with limited experience to show.
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Adil Dahmani
Adil Dahmani is the founder of Yalliq, the AI career copilot for Arabic-speaking professionals across MENA.