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10 Best Audit Firms in Dubai, UAE

Financial transparency and regulatory compliance are non-negotiable in Dubai’s fast-evolving business landscape. Whether you operate a startup, an SME, or a multinational corporation, working with a qualified audit firm in Dubai is essential to staying compliant with UAE regulations, meeting IFRS standards, and maintaining sound financial governance. With corporate tax now in effect and the FTA’s oversight increasing, choosing the right audit partner has never been more consequential. This guide covers the top 10 audit firms in Dubai and UAE for 2026, with detailed profiles, pricing benchmarks, and key differentiators to help you make an informed decision.

Top Audit Firms in Dubai | Updated 2026 List

This table lists top audit firms in Dubai, detailing their year established, key services offered, and unique distinguishing features.

Audit FirmFee RangeKey ServicesUnique Features
1. Farahat & CoLow–MediumAccounting & Auditing, VAT consulting, excise tax, corporate tax advisory, company liquidationDeep UAE market knowledge, strategic and tailored solutions, high-quality and timely services
2. DeloitteHighAudit, taxation, and financial advisoryOne of the Big 4, offers statutory, operational, compliance, and financial audits
3. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PWC)HighAudit, assurance, financial advisory, tech-powered experiencesBold ideas, human-centric solutions, second-largest professional services network
4. KPMGHighAudit, advisory, taxation (local and international), consultancyOperates in 155 countries; expertise in financial, healthcare, infrastructure, industrial, and technology
5. Ernst & Young (EY)HighAudit, assurance, transactions, advisory61+ partners, 1106 employees in Dubai; values of respect, integrity, and professionalism
6. Grant ThorntonMediumAudit, accounting, advisoryRanked 7th-largest globally; focus on quality, innovation, and expertise
7. AFD AuditorsLow–MediumInternal audit, external audit, statutory audit, forensic audit, due diligence audit, liquidation audit, tax audit, strata auditA dedicated audit-focused member of the Farahat & Co. network, approved across DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA, DSO, RAKEZ, ADGM, DIFC, and Dubai South
8. BDO (Binder Dijker Otte)HighAccounting and auditingPresence in 162 countries, innovation, adaptable approach
9. Crowe Horwath Chartered AccountantsMediumAudit, tax services, consultingBuilds long-standing client relationships
10. RSM UAEMediumAudit, tax, business consultancyPersonalized solutions for clients; top 10 audit firms in UAE
11. Baker TillyLowAssurance, advisory, consultancyNetwork of 30 offices in the Middle East and Africa, accessibility and reliability

Dubai’s status as a global business hub means the bar for financial compliance and reporting accuracy is high. The right audit partner does more than tick a compliance box, they strengthen your financial controls, support tax filings, and protect your reputation with investors, banks, and regulators. The firms below cover the full spectrum, from Big 4 multinationals to specialised local firms. Read each profile carefully to identify which best suits your business size, sector, and budget.

List of Leading Audit Firms in Dubai

1. Farahat & Co, Al Rigga Road, Dubai

Established in 1985, Farahat & Co has earned an immense reputation as a leading audit firm in Dubai. With expertise spanning a wide range of services including auditing, VAT consulting, excise tax, accounting, corporate tax advisory, and company liquidation, our team brings in-depth knowledge of the UAE market. We are committed to offering strategic and tailored insights that deliver results that meet your unique business needs.

At Farahat & Co., we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, timely services and solutions.

USP (Unique Selling Point): Farahat & Co is best for SMEs, real estate companies, and family-owned businesses that require fast, compliant, and cost-effective audit and corporate tax services in Dubai.

Certifications, Awards & Accreditations

  • Registered Auditor with UAE authorities
  • Registered Tax Agent with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
  • ISO-aligned internal quality controls
  • Member-associated professionals from ACCA and CPA bodies

Advantages

  • Strong focus on UAE Corporate Tax advisory
  • Faster turnaround than Big-4 firms
  • Dedicated partner involvement
  • Industry-specific audit teams (real estate, trading, construction)

Pricing Estimate / Packages

  • SMEs: AED 6,000 – 15,000
  • Mid-size companies: AED 15,000 – 35,000

Google Ratings & Client Base

  • Rating range: 4.7★–4.9★
  • 3,000+ regional clients (SMEs and mid-market)

Recent Achievement: Expanded Corporate Tax structuring and advisory services post-2023 tax implementation

Address / Location: Deira & Business Bay, Dubai, UAE

2. Deloitte Middle East, Audit Firm in Downtown Dubai

Founded as early as 1845 in London (UK), Deloitte is highly recognized and is regarded as one of the Big 4 internal and external audit firms. It provides trustworthy services such as audit, taxation, and financial advisory. It is one of the biggest audit companies and the biggest recruiter of finance professionals.

The following are the types of audits Deloitte provides to its clients:

  • Statutory audits, special purpose, and limited scope audits
  • Operational audits
  • Financial investigation and restructuring assistance
  • Review
  • Compliance auditing

USP (Unique Selling Point): Best suited for large multinational corporations and complex cross-border audits.

Certifications & Accreditations

  • Big-4 global network
  • IFRS, SOX, and international tax leadership

Advantages

  • Global methodologies
  • Advanced analytics and risk advisory
  • Strong regulatory reputation

Pricing Estimate: AED 60,000 – 250,000+

Google Ratings & Clients

  • 4.3★–4.6★
  • Thousands of global enterprise clients

Recent Achievement: Corporate tax transformation frameworks for GCC entities

Location: DIFC, Dubai

3. PwC Middle East, Audit Firm in Downtown Dubai

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) is considered one of the Big 4 audit firms, alongside Deloitte, KPMG, and EY. It operates under the PWC brand and currently ranks as the second-largest professional network services firm.

It prides itself on its philosophy of delivering bold ideas, human-centric solutions, and tech-powered experiences that deliver lasting results to organizations, customers, and communities.

USP (Unique Selling Point): Preferred by listed companies and financial institutions.

Accreditations

  • Big-4 firm
  • IFRS & global assurance leader

Advantages

  • Strong risk and compliance advisory
  • Technology-driven audit processes

Pricing: AED 55,000 – 220,000+

Google Ratings: 4.4★ approx.

Recent Achievement: UAE Corporate Tax Readiness Programs

Location: DIFC, Dubai

4. KPMG Lower Gulf, Audit Firm in Dubai (World Trade Centre)

Founded in 1987, KPMG is yet another audit firm with an outstanding brand image amongst customers. It has a wide base for providing services to 155 countries and includes versatility in its divisions from auditing, advisory, and taxation (both local and international) to consultancy services.

KPMG has carried out audits for a multitude of sectors such as:

  • Financial
  • Government, healthcare, and infrastructure
  • Industrial and consumer markets
  • Technology, telecommunications, and media

USP (Unique Selling Point): KPMG’s deep sector expertise makes it a strong choice for regulated industries including banking, insurance, energy, and government.

Accreditations

  • Part of the Big 4 firm
  • Works on the global IFRS and ESG audit framework

Advantages

  • Higher experience in sector-specific work
  • Excellent internal control reviews

Pricing: AED 50,000–200,000

Recent Achievement: Recent works on ESG and sustainability audit expansion

Location: DIFC, Dubai

5. Ernst & Young (EY), Audit Firm in Dubai, DIFC

EY is a global leader in audit, assurance, transactions, and advisory services. With a large team of 61+ partners and 1106 employees in Dubai from diverse cultures, EY conducts business keeping in mind its values of respect, work integrity, and professionalism.

USP (Unique Selling Point): A strong audit option for high-growth enterprises and IPO-ready companies.

Accreditations

  • Part of the Big 4 firms
  • A leader in assurance and global tax

Advantages

  • Performs strategic tax planning for its clients
  • Strong transaction advisory capability

Pricing: AED 55,000 – 210,000

Location: DIFC, Dubai

6. Grant Thornton UAE, Audit Firm in Dubai (DWTC)

A member organization of Grant Thornton International, Grant Thornton is currently ranked as the seventh-largest accounting, audit, and advisory firm in the world.

Its objective is simple, delivering quality, innovation, and expertise that clients all over the world can rely on.

USP (Unique Selling Point): Grant Thornton specialises in working for mid-sized companies, between SMEs and large firms.

Accreditations: Part of the top 10 global audit network

Advantages

  • Practical, advisory-driven approach to work
  • Competitive pricing

Pricing: AED 20,000 – 70,000

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

7. AFD Auditors, Dubai

AFD Auditors is a Dubai-based audit firm and a dedicated audit-focused member of the Farahat & Co. network, built specifically to concentrate on one thing: audit. The firm works exclusively across internal audits, external audits, statutory audits, and the full range of compliance-driven audit services businesses in the UAE need.

AFD Auditors is an approved auditor across major UAE free zones, including DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA, DSO, RAKEZ, ADGM, DIFC, and Dubai South, alongside serving mainland companies. Services include:

  • Internal, external, and statutory audits
  • Forensic audit and fraud investigation
  • Due diligence audit
  • Liquidation and inventory audit
  • Tax audit and strata audit
  • Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) reports

USP (Unique Selling Point): A focused, audit-only specialist backed by the Farahat & Co. network, well suited to SMEs, free zone entities, and businesses needing an approved auditor across multiple UAE jurisdictions without Big-4 pricing.

Accreditations

  • Member of the Farahat & Co. network
  • Approved auditor across DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA, DSO, RAKEZ, ADGM, DIFC, and Dubai South

Advantages

  • Audit-exclusive focus across the full range of statutory and specialized audit types
  • Multi-free-zone approval reduces the need to switch auditors when expanding across jurisdictions
  • Backed by decades of combined audit experience through the Farahat & Co. network

Location: Dubai, UAE

8. BDO (Binder Dijker Otte), Audit Firm in Burjuman Business Tower

Since 1963, BDO has been considered a leading audit firm consisting of a wide client base across 162 countries worldwide. With its expertise, certified auditing team, innovation, and adaptable approach, it aims to consistently provide its clients with strong growth support in the competitive UAE market through its accounting and auditing services.

USP (Unique Selling Point): BDO UAE specialises in family businesses and regional groups.

Advantages

  • Partner-led engagement
  • Outstanding tax compliance support

Pricing: AED 25,000 – 90,000

Location: Dubai and Abu Dhabi

9. Crowe UAE, Audit Firm in Dubai (Business Bay)

Crowe Horwath is a recognized name amongst top audit firms in Dubai, UAE. They offer an extensive range of services such as:

  • Audit
  • Top-notch tax services
  • Consulting

It mainly focuses on building long-standing associations with clients that enhance its status among the top audit firms in Dubai, UAE.

USP (Unique Selling Point): This firm is better known for advisory services and international structuring.

Advantages

  • Strong forensic audit team
  • Excellent international tax exposure

Pricing: AED 20,000 – 80,000

Location: DIFC, Dubai

10. RSM UAE, Audit Firm in Dubai (Business Bay)

USP (Unique Selling Point): The focus is mainly on entrepreneurial and fast-growing companies.

Advantages

  • SME-friendly working models
  • Strong compliance support

Pricing: AED 18,000 – 65,000

Location: Dubai and Sharjah

11. Baker Tilly Middle East, Audit Firm in Dubai World Trade Centre

Baker Tilly is a well-respected professional audit firm based in Dubai, known for its comprehensive range of services. Their offerings include assurance, advisory, and consultancy services, catering to a wide array of client needs. What sets Baker Tilly apart is not just the quality of their services but also their extensive presence.

With a network of 30 offices spread across the Middle East and Africa, they have built a strong reputation for accessibility and reliability. This widespread footprint allows them to serve clients in diverse regions, ensuring that they are always close by, no matter how far away.

USP (Unique Selling Point): Firms looking for cost-controlled audits with international standards can contact Baker Tilly in the Middle East.

Advantages

  • Value-based pricing
  • Strong internal audit services

Pricing: AED 15,000 – 60,000

Location: Dubai

Need Expert Advice?

Contact the team at Farahat & Co. for professional support and expert insights for businesses operating in the UAE.

Case Study: Why Most SMEs Choose Farahat & Co Over Big-4 Firms

Many SMEs in Dubai find that Big 4 firms, while globally respected, are structured primarily around large multinational engagements. Fees can start at AED 50,000 and scale well beyond that, with work often handled by junior staff rather than senior partners. For a business with straightforward compliance needs, the cost-to-value ratio can be difficult to justify. Local and mid-tier firms such as Farahat & Co., and its audit-focused network member AFD Auditors, offer a different model: direct partner access, faster turnaround, transparent fixed-fee pricing, and teams that specialise in UAE mainland and free zone compliance rather than global frameworks. For SMEs, real estate companies, and family-owned businesses, this focused approach often delivers better practical outcomes than a global brand name alone.

What Makes Farahat & Co. Unique?

Farahat & Co. distinguishes itself through a combination of deep local market expertise, direct partner involvement, and a service model built specifically around UAE regulatory requirements.

Other unique features of Farahat & Co., which contribute to choosing this company, are:

  • No hidden costs with fixed fee structures
  • Different audit teams for different industries
  • Special unit for corporate tax registration, filing, and advisory
  • Quicker and dependable work delivery
  • Comprehensive understanding of both mainland and free zone rules in the UAE, including through the wider Farahat & Co. network, such as AFD Auditors

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring an Auditor in Dubai

The value of the right auditor is significant in the current UAE business environment. Businesses have grown increasingly knowledgeable about the requirements of a good audit firm, but some still make the mistake of choosing the wrong one.

Common mistakes to avoid before hiring an auditor include:

  • Choosing a firm without relevant industry experience in your sector
  • Overlooking the firm’s UAE corporate tax advisory capability
  • Failing to verify FTA registration and auditor licensing status
  • Engaging a firm where partner involvement is minimal and turnaround timelines are unclear

How to Select the Best Audit Firm in Dubai

Audit firms are not created equal. When choosing a firm, take into consideration:

➔ Skills and Background: Make sure they have experience dealing with your kind of business, be it a startup, SME, or multinational firm.

➔ Industry Knowledge: Professionals conversant with your industry understand the issues and compliance needs particular to it.

➔ Customized Services: A firm should provide business-specific solutions rather than generic packages.

➔ Regulatory Compliance: Confirm the firm maintains a high level of compliance with UAE regulatory standards and global accounting standards.

➔ Risk Management: Good audit firms take the initiative of identifying risks and offering solutions to reduce them. We combine local knowledge and global best practices at Farahat & Co. to help businesses reduce risk, ensure compliance, and make informed financial decisions.

Why Auditing Is Essential for Businesses

The regulatory environment of the UAE is strict, and businesses that undergo appropriate auditing are better protected. With the help of an experienced audit firm, you’re assisted in:

Complying with the requirements of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and other local regulations.

Carrying out proper financial audits to verify accounts and statements.

Enhancing internal controls as a way of reducing risk.

Ensuring transparency of financials to increase investor and stakeholder confidence.

Streamlining accounting processes to conserve resources and time.

Whether it’s a startup or an international corporation, professional auditors provide the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of doing business in Dubai.

Services Leading Auditing Firms Provide

Major audit companies such as Farahat & Co. offer customized services to clients according to their specific needs. These include:

  • Financial Audits: Ensuring your financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS and present your real business accurately.
  • Internal Controls Assessment: Assessment of systems and processes to avoid errors or fraud.
  • Tax Compliance Support: FTA reporting and VAT compliance.
  • Accounting Services: From bookkeeping to financial reporting, supporting smooth business operations.
  • Consulting Services: Expert advice to enhance performance, risk, and operations.

Hiring the appropriate audit firm isn’t just about compliance, it’s also a positive step toward sustainable business growth.

Which Industries Are Required to Undergo Audit?

Certain industries in Dubai must undergo auditing services due to regulatory, legal, or stakeholder requirements.

  • Financial Sector: Banks, insurance companies, and financial service firms must be regularly audited, primarily overseen by the Central Bank of the UAE and the Securities and Commodities Authority.
  • Real Estate: Developers, property management companies, owners’ associations, and escrow account agents must be audited, falling under RERA and DLD guidelines.
  • Listed Companies: Companies listed on the stock exchange, such as the Dubai Financial Market, must have audited financial statements.
  • Free-Zone Entities: Entities within DIFC, regulated by DFSA, or under DDA, must undergo auditing for license or regulatory reporting.
  • Government-Related Entities: Public funds, government-owned entities, and other government bodies must be audited under the Financial Audit Authority.

Why Choose Top Audit Firms for Your Business?

There are several advantages to choosing top audit firms:

  • Credibility & Trust: Top audit firms like the Big 4 help you win the confidence of stakeholders.
  • Technical Expertise: Experienced firms understand IFRS, local accounting standards, and required industry regulations.
  • Risk Management: They provide risk-based audit and management letters, helping identify and minimise business risk.
  • Value-Added Advice: Beyond audit, they provide tax planning, business process improvement, forensic accounting, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
  • Scalability & Global Reach: If you have international operations, a top audit firm allows you to work with cross-border expertise and global networks.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Working with top auditors like CA firms in the UAE supports compliance with approved auditor requirements, helping with license renewal for mainland and free zone companies.

How to Choose the Right Auditors in Dubai

The following are the major factors each business should consider before finalizing its auditing partner:

1. Qualifications of the Audit Professionals

Work only with auditors who hold internationally recognized certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

These qualifications help ensure the auditor understands IFRS, UAE regulations, and global auditing standards.

2. Registration and Licensing

Audit firms should be registered auditors in Dubai and approved by the DET or the relevant free zone authorities.

A licensed auditor helps ensure your reports are accepted by banks, investors, and government bodies.

3. Experience With Your Business Structure

Choose a firm experienced in the type of company you operate:

  • Mainland companies licensed by DET
  • DMCC, DAFZA, and JAFZA entities
  • Offshore companies
  • SMEs
  • Corporate groups

Industry experience helps ensure audit work is accurate and compliant.

4. Utilization of Modern Auditing Tools

Advanced auditing technologies, automation tools, and digital working papers are used by leading audit companies in Dubai, increasing accuracy, reducing manual errors, and speeding up audit timelines.

5. Communication Style & Reporting Quality

The audit report should be clear, action-oriented, easy to understand, and delivered on time. A good auditing firm maintains clear communication, regular updates, and professional advisory support.

6. Fee Structure and Contract Terms

Reliable auditors offer straightforward pricing with no hidden costs. Firms offering very cheap audits should be approached with caution, as this often signals a compromise on either quality or compliance.

7. Advisory Services Added

Most companies in Dubai prefer firms offering additional services such as VAT consultation, corporate tax consultation, risk management, and accounting support, granting continuity and accuracy across all finance functions.

What Are the Key Evaluation Criteria for Audit Firm Rankings?

Most “rankings” differ online because there’s no single government-issued list. However, the auditing industry commonly grades firms on standardized, transparent criteria:

1. Regulatory Compliance & Approvals

Top companies continuously comply with UAE Ministry of Economy requirements, free zone approvals (DMCC, DAFZA, JAFZA), and local auditor registration rules. Firms that fail compliance cannot be ranked at the top.

2. Audit Quality & Technical Expertise

Key quality indicators include experience with IFRS, strong internal review procedures, the ability to conduct complex audits (groups, multinationals, consolidation), and expertise across sectors such as real estate, construction, trading, healthcare, retail, and technology.

3. Technological Capability

High-ranking firms apply automated audit tools, data analytics, digital evidence collection, and cloud audit software, all of which reduce human error and improve audit quality.

4. Ethical Standards & Independence

Reliable firms maintain strict independence rules, avoid conflicts of interest, use transparent fee structures, and guarantee confidentiality, good ethics that ensure trustworthiness.

5. Risk Management Practices

Strong internal risk controls reduce auditing errors, legal exposure, misstatements, and reputational risk, a major ranking factor globally and within the UAE.

6. Customer Retention & Reputation

Rankings reflect long-term client relationships, corporate and SME customer feedback, online and offline testimonials, and referrals from banks, lenders, and governments.

7. Industry-Specific Teams

Large auditing firms maintain separate teams for different industries, including free zone companies, retail, contracting, logistics, hospitality, and professional services, ensuring relevant and effective audits.

8. Scope of Services

Firms with full-scope capability, extended offerings in tax, advisory, accounting, and VAT, receive more favorable ratings.

Why Do We Need a Registered Audit Firm?

Following the Law: Working with registered auditors helps you follow the rules and report what UAE authorities require.

  • Financial Accuracy and Openness: Hiring an approved auditor makes it easier to keep your finances accurate and build trust.
  • Regulatory Reporting: Banks, free zones, and real estate trusts rely on the financial statements a registered firm provides.
  • Risk Management: Registered firms help identify weaknesses, inefficiencies, and potential fraud.
  • Business Reputation & Investor Confidence: Hiring registered audit firms builds client trust in your company.
  • Legal Penalties: Using an auditor who isn’t properly licensed, or not approved by the relevant authority where approval is required, can create compliance issues. This may result in the audit report not being accepted and can affect regulatory submissions, annual filings, or license-related procedures depending on applicable rules.
  • Corporate Governance: Auditing services from registered firms strengthen governance structure and support better decision-making.

Farahat & Co. vs. Other Audit Firms

Here’s a comparison table showing how Farahat & Co, together with its audit-focused network member AFD Auditors, stacks up against other top audit firms in Dubai.

FeatureFarahat & Co / AFD AuditorsOther Top Audit Firms (e.g., Big 4, Grant Thornton, BDO)
Services OfferedAudit & assurance, VAT consulting, corporate tax advisory, company liquidation, and accounting, with AFD Auditors focused specifically on the full range of statutory and specialized audit types.Statutory audit, internal audit, risk advisory, tax advisory, M&A, data analytics.
Experience & Industry FocusA local network with a deep understanding of the UAE market, free zone and mainland SMEs, and multi-jurisdiction free zone auditor approvals through AFD Auditors.Global presence, expertise across financial services, real estate, healthcare, etc.
Pricing TierCompetitive local rates with customised, fixed-fee services.Generally higher pricing, reflecting global reach.
Client Reviews & ReputationWell established in the UAE market with trust from local businesses.Big Four firms are globally recognized; mid-tier firms are praised for client-centric services.
Years of ServiceSince 1985, decades of local presence.Big Four: historically global firms; other regional players also have long track records.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Audit Firm?

  • Accounting auditing in Dubai is an integral consideration for businesses operating both locally and internationally. Getting an audit from top audit firms in Dubai gives you the necessary oversight of your company’s financial position and helps convince potential partners and shareholders.
  • Dubai is one of the most dynamic and diverse business hubs in the world, attracting investors and entrepreneurs from various sectors and industries. With its strategic location, tax-free environment, and world-class infrastructure, Dubai offers a competitive platform for business growth.
  • A fundamental legal requirement for businesses in the UAE is the auditing of accounts and strong maintenance of finances. While many options exist, choosing one based on brand recognition alone is a common and often costly mistake.

Why Choose Farahat & Co for Audit Services in Dubai?

Farahat & Co. is licensed by the Ministry of Economy & Tourism in the UAE and provides audit services in line with applicable UAE regulations and Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies.

The team is comprised of highly experienced Chartered Accountants, CPAs, and certified professionals trained in delivering quality statutory audits, external audits, internal audits, forensic audits, tax audits, VAT audits, and many others. The Farahat & Co. network also includes AFD Auditors, a dedicated audit specialist approved across major UAE free zones.

We are committed to International Financial Reporting Standards, ensuring each report is accurate, compliant, and accepted by:

  • Banks
  • Government agencies
  • Investors
  • Free zone authorities
  • DED

Farahat & Co.’s advisory support encompasses:

  • Corporate taxes
  • VAT compliance
  • Strata auditing
  • Sales auditing
  • Business setup
  • Internal Control Enhancement
  • Assessment of Financial Health

What Auditing Services Does Farahat & Co Provide?

services in Farahat & Co

Farahat & Co is a leading and reputable audit firm providing a wide range of auditing services to meet the needs and expectations of our clients. Our auditing services include:

1. Statutory Audit

For some organizations, such as publicly listed companies, banks, insurance companies, and governments, a statutory audit is required by law or regulation. A statutory audit must be conducted regularly by UAE public sector enterprises to verify compliance with government rules.

An appointed statutory auditing company in the UAE is required to audit the financial records of all government agencies.

2. Internal Audit

For your company to function smoothly, Farahat & Co. offers internal audit services in the UAE. These services identify inefficiencies at every stage of operation and propose strategies for risk reduction so the organization can overcome obstacles and achieve its objectives.

Our internal auditing team provides personalized solutions that add strategic value to your company.

3. External Audit

When an external auditing team is chosen either voluntarily by the company or by a third party, a creditor, client, regulator, or other, they carry out an external audit. To guarantee and validate the accuracy and validity of the information, data, or procedures used by the organization, an external audit is performed.

4. Forensic Audit

Examining and assessing a company’s or person’s financial or accounting records is called a forensic audit. An auditor looks for evidence during a forensic audit that may be presented in court. The purpose of a forensic audit is to find evidence of illegal activity like misappropriation or fraud.

5. Tax Audit

Among the top audit firms in Dubai, several offer tax audit-related services in the UAE. A tax audit is simply a government examination of a firm regarding its responsibilities as a taxable entity. The FTA performs this kind of audit to confirm that all obligations are fulfilled and that all taxes are collected and remitted to the government on schedule.

The government evaluates a company’s compliance with tax rules, such as VAT and excise taxes, to determine whether it is fulfilling its obligations.

Who Can Do an Audit in the UAE?

As per Article 15 of Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2023 Concerning the Regulation of the Accounting and Auditing Profession:

  • Unless the SCA certification is secured, an Accounting Firm isn’t permitted to conduct audits or reviews of financial accounts for public joint stock corporations or mutual funds.
  • The Accounting Firm appointed by banks, insurance companies, investment fund companies for third-party benefit, and public joint stock companies to audit and review their financial statements must hold a professional license issued by the Ministry, subject to Clause (1) of this Article and other applicable conditions. The license must be held for no less than five years.
  • Any restrictions, requirements, or fees for Accounting Firm certification must be approved by the SCA Board of Directors.
  • SCA is required to notify the Ministry of certified accounting companies’ names, as well as any criminal fines or disciplinary actions taken against them.

Further, per Ministerial Resolution 111-2 of 2022, accounting professionals must clear compulsory exams on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), International Standards on Auditing (ISAs), and UAE tax and regulations to obtain a license.

However, those holding credentials from any of the six recognized professional bodies, ACCA, ICAEW, AICPA, CPA Australia, CPA Canada, and the Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants, are exempt from the accounting and auditing standards examinations.

Conclusion

Since 1985, Farahat & Co has been delivering a wide array of services, including auditing, accounting, tax consulting, and business liquidation, with deep understanding of the UAE corporate landscape. This expertise allows the firm, together with network members like AFD Auditors, to tailor services to each client’s unique needs.

Choosing the right audit firm is a genuinely important decision that will affect your business’s financial health. What matters most is selecting a reliable, reputable, and cost-effective firm that delivers real value.

Among the many roles audit firms in Dubai play, companies such as Farahat & Co. help identify the errors, weaknesses, and strengths in your business, and more importantly, provide solutions to help your company manage these issues and move forward.

Need Expert Advice?

Contact the team at Farahat & Co. for professional support and expert insights for businesses operating in the UAE.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a business conduct an audit in the UAE?

Audit requirements in the UAE vary by company type, regulator, free zone rules, and stakeholder requirements. Many businesses are required to submit audited financial statements annually, especially in regulated sectors and certain free zones.

What is the purpose of an internal audit versus an external audit?

An internal audit reviews processes, internal controls, risk management, and operations within a company. An external audit independently reviews the financial statements for reporting, compliance, and stakeholder purposes.

How does auditing assist with tax filing?

Audited financial records can support accuracy in VAT and corporate tax reporting, help maintain consistency between accounting records and tax filings, and reduce the risk of reporting errors.

Why are audits necessary for companies in Dubai?

Audits help businesses maintain reliable financial records, meet applicable compliance requirements, strengthen credibility with stakeholders, and support better financial oversight.

What should I consider when choosing auditors in Dubai?

You should consider the auditor’s qualifications, licensing, industry experience, reporting quality, fee structure, use of technology, and reputation in the market.

On what basis are audit firms evaluated in Dubai?

Audit firms are commonly evaluated based on regulatory compliance, technical experience, industry knowledge, service quality, ethical standards, use of technology, and client confidence.

How do I choose the right audit firm in Dubai?

Choose an audit firm based on its experience, understanding of UAE regulations, industry knowledge, reporting quality, and ability to deliver audit work within the required timeline. It’s also important to check whether the firm is properly licensed and familiar with mainland and free zone requirements.

Are large audit firms always the best option for SMEs in Dubai?

Not always. The right choice depends on your business size, reporting needs, industry, and budget. Many SMEs prefer audit firms that offer practical support, partner involvement, and a better understanding of local compliance requirements.

What is the average audit fee in Dubai?

Audit fees in Dubai vary depending on the size of the company, volume of transactions, quality of records, business activity, and whether the company operates in the mainland or a free zone. A proper review of the company’s structure and records is usually needed before giving a fee estimate.

Do free zone companies in Dubai need approved auditors?

Many free zone companies are required to appoint auditors approved by the relevant authority, especially where audited financial statements are needed for annual compliance, license renewal, or reporting obligations. The exact requirement depends on the rules of the specific free zone.

What is the difference between statutory audit and internal audit?

A statutory audit is an independent review of financial statements to meet legal, regulatory, or reporting requirements. An internal audit focuses on internal controls, risk management, governance, and operational efficiency to help the business improve its processes.

Which industries in Dubai usually require external audit?

External audit is commonly required for businesses in regulated sectors, free zones, financial services, insurance, real estate, and companies that need audited financial statements for banks, investors, authorities, or license renewals. The requirement depends on the business activity and the authority governing the company.

How can I verify whether an audit firm is properly licensed in the UAE?

You can verify an audit firm by checking whether it’s registered with the relevant UAE authorities and whether it meets the requirements applicable to the type of company being audited. For some businesses, it’s also important to confirm whether the auditor is approved by the relevant free zone or regulatory authority.

Is AFD Auditors connected to Farahat & Co.?

Yes. AFD Auditors is a Dubai-based audit firm and a dedicated audit-focused member of the Farahat & Co. network, approved across major UAE free zones including DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA, DSO, RAKEZ, ADGM, DIFC, and Dubai South.

Why choose Farahat & Co.?

Farahat & Co. provides audit services with a strong understanding of UAE compliance requirements, financial reporting standards, and the needs of mainland and free zone businesses, backed by a wider network that includes audit specialists like AFD Auditors.
Ervee Villanueva

Ervee is a CPA with international experience in Tax and Accounting. He has over 12 years of experience in accounting and bookkeeping and over a year in VAT implementation, registration, and accounting in UAE. He regularly drives out inefficiencies in company operations and loves the challenge of helping clients find additional ways for an easier and improved compliance and verification of transactions.

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