UAE is a top destination for those seeking new and lucrative opportunities. The growth of UAE’s economy supported by government policies and rising oil exports has caused a hike in employment opportunities and according to most industry pundits, this upward trajectory of growth in jobs will continue till the next year. So, if you are a professional looking to switch your job for a better salary and work/life balance or even a newcomer, now is the best time to begin applying for jobs.

However, before applying, it is quite important to prepare adequately for a job interview. At most times, the employer tests your candidature abilities only once he is satisfied with your credentials and soft skills – confidence, composure, communication, and presentation during the course of the interview. But what if you have what it takes to ace the job test but fail to impress in the interview?

Here is a quick guide to the 12 most common questions asked in job interviews in UAE and how to answer them:

#1 What motivates you to pursue a job opportunity in the UAE?

This is the most common question asked from the expat job seekers. Tell them about how working abroad will add value to your career and how the diverse, progressive, and multi-cultured environment of UAE help you grow personally and professionally as opposed to where you belong to.

#2 Are you willing to work long hours?

This is a bit of a tricky question. If you say yes, you will be opening yourself up to unbearable exploitation, diminishing work/life balance, and unmanageable loads of work. If you say no, that would be the end of the story for your employment prospects. Therefore, it would be wise to give a diplomatic answer and negotiate reasonable hours, urging the employer to set a limit to the additional working hours, while asking to be compensated accordingly.

#3 What is your work visa status?

As an expat in the UAE, you cannot work without having a work visa. Therefore, this is one of the first possible questions asked. Answer this honestly and find out whether they require something other than the work permit.

#4 Tell us something about yourself?

Arguably, one of the most predictable yet commonplace and initial questions asked from the candidate. Start off with your educational background, experience in the field, and mention your passions or interests along the way. However, do not mention small time hobbies, such as playing games on a PlayStation, smoking, since they make you look bad.

#5 What do you know about us?

This is to gauge your level of interest in the job and research skills. They will expect you to know about and mention the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities of the company. Presenting a careful analysis in this regard might even prove to be the x-factor landing you the job eventually.

#6 Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

This is another common question, yet one that candidates often fail to answer properly. Here, you have to stick to your professional aspirations – career goals and NOT personal ones like marriage, buying a home, traveling around the world etc.

#7 What are your strengths and weaknesses?

When it comes to strengths, you mostly mention the areas where you have a certain competitive advantage and not something that every other candidate applying for the job might possess. For instance, an accountant cannot say he’s good at preparing balance sheets. As far as the weaknesses are concerned, it should be carefully thought of before answering. Try turning your weaknesses into your positive traits. For instance, “I am too much of a perfectionist who ends up taking more time than is required”

#8 What can you bring to this company?

Try flattering your employer by talking about what sets it apart from its competition. Also, do mention how you can bring value to its team, the skills they need, and how you have demonstrated them in the past. Make sure that the company has the set of values and you have to portray how to share those values.

#9 Why do you want to leave your current job?

Take care not to make derogatory remarks about your present employer. The most appropriate reasoning can be that of salary and benefits. Tell them, your current employer isn’t remunerating you as per your expectations.

#10 Why should we hire you?

Mention your career highlights, unique skills, and achievements that other candidates might not have.

#11 What is the most difficult problem you have had to face and how you tackled it?

This is asked to anticipate your performance in high-pressure situations and problem-solving skills. Explain a difficult situation that was not caused by you and how you tackled it.

#12 Do you have any questions for us?

This is the perfect opportunity to learn about your role and ask intelligent questions about the company, such as its mission, vision, future goals, work environment, working hours, and benefits. Not asking any questions may sends the wrong message and comes off as a lack of interest from your end.