How to Start an Accounting and Bookkeeping Firm in Dubai 

Dubai’s business scene is bustling. With countless firms and brands being established here every year, the demand for professional services, including financial services, is rapidly growing. Thus, now is it the perfect time to start accounting firm in Dubai.

Accounting and bookkeeping are crucial for any business. By outsourcing these services to skilled professionals, businesses ensure their finances are safe and productive. As an accounting firm in Dubai, you can offer specialized financial and taxation services to a large client base. However, you must possess the necessary skills and qualifications to do so. Plus, you will need to apply for a professional license in Dubai.

Read the article below to learn everything you need to know about starting an accounting and bookkeeping business setup Dubai, including legal requirements, license costs, benefits, and more.

What is an Accounting and Bookkeeping Firm in Dubai, UAE?

An accounting and bookkeeping firm is a specialized service provider that assists businesses and clients with tasks such as managing income and expenses, preparing financial statements, tax planning, auditing, and other related financial activities.

These firms typically have a team of expert financial advisors, analysts, and accountants who support clients in handling their finance-related responsibilities efficiently and in compliance with local regulations in UAE.

Services Offered by Accounting and Bookkeeping Firm in Dubai

The accounting and bookkeeping firms offer a broad spectrum of services to businesses. Financial management is one of the most critical aspects of any business and such these firms ensure that a company maintain accurate, up-to-date and complaint financial records that reflect their true financial health.

1. Financial statement preparation

These firms prepare and analyze financial statements such as balance sheets, profit and loss accounts, and cash flow statements, helping businesses get a clear view of their financial position.

2. Cash flow analysis

They assist in tracking the inflow and outflow of cash to ensure that a business maintains adequate liquidity and avoids financial shortfalls.

4. Budgeting and forecasting

Accounting firms help businesses set financial goals and project future income and expenses, supporting strategic planning and resource allocation.

5. Tax planning and management

They ensure that businesses comply with UAE tax laws, including VAT and corporate tax, while also helping manage tax obligations and minimize liabilities.

6. Auditing services

Many firms offer internal, external, and statutory audit support to check the accuracy of financial records and ensure regulatory compliance.

7. Payroll management

Services include managing employee salaries, deductions and benefits in accordance with UAE labour laws while ensuring timely and accurate payments.

8. Sales and purchases management

These firms handle the recording and monitoring of all transactions related to sales and procurement, supporting smooth operations.

9. Legal compliance

Accounting and bookkeeping firms ensure that all financial activities align with local laws and regulatory requirements which reduces legal risks for their clients.

How to Start Accounting Firm in Dubai?

If any of the services mentioned above or anything related interest you, then you should consider starting your own accounting and bookkeeping business setup in Dubai.

To start an accounting firm in Dubai, you must follow these steps:

Step 1 – Choose your location

Both mainland and free zones in Dubai allow you to start an accounting and bookkeeping firm. You must decide where you want to establish your business.

For example, in the mainland, you can cater to the entire Dubai market and international clients without facing any restrictions. While in freezone, business setup comes with 100% ownership and affordable license packages.

Each zone has its own advantages and features, which you should consider before deciding where to start accounting firm in Dubai.

Step 2 – Decide the company structure

Next, decide the legal form for your business such as sole proprietorship, limited liability company, civil partnership company, a branch, etc.

Each legal structure comes with different costs, tax responsibilities and degree of control for owner.

Step 3 – Register name for business

Finalize a name for your business and get it registered with the authority. While deciding the name, make sure it is as per the UAE’s naming guidelines. Otherwise, it would not be accepted.

Step 4 – Get the initial approval from DED

For any business type, be it a manufacturing, a commercial or a professional business, getting the initial approval is a necessity. Similarly, for your accounting company formation UAE, you must get the initial NOC from either DED (in case of mainland) or the respective freezone authority.

Step 5 – Rent an office space

For your firm, you will need a suitable office space. Your potential clients may visit you there, so it’s a good idea to have a professional and well-maintained setup.

You can rent an office and have the tenancy contract registered through the Ejari portal. Alternatively, if you choose to set up in a free zone, you may have the option to operate from a virtual address or flexi desk.

Step 6 – Apply for a business license

Finally, you must apply for a professional license with the relevant authority. To do this, you will need to submit a completed license application form containing your business details and other required information.

Along with the form, certain supporting documents must also be submitted. The process also requires payment of the applicable fees to complete the submission.

Step 7 – License final approval

The authority will review your application and verify the details provided. Once they are satisfied, they will approve your request and issue your business license.

Keep in mind that the license processing time can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the nature, scope, and complexity of your business.

Legal Requirements for Starting an Accounting Firm in Dubai

To start accounting firm in Dubai, you must meet the following legal requirements:

A professional license

All service-based businesses in Dubai, including accounting, tax, and bookkeeping firms, must get a professional license from the government authority. Operating without a proper license is considered against the law.

Professional qualification

Since it’s a service-based business, there is a need for valid accounting certifications such as Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

Workspace

You need to have a suitable office space for your accounting firm in Dubai. The location also matters to be accessible and convenient for clients. The requirement may vary in freezones.

Visa (for foreign entrepreneurs)

If you are a foreign entrepreneur starting your business in Dubai, then you will need to get yourself residence visa which will allow you to legally stay and work in Dubai.

Cost of Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Dubai

The cost of starting an accounting and bookkeeping license in Dubai starts from as low as AED 6,000*.

The final price may vary depending on location selected, your business scope, visa requirements, and other factors. To get more idea about costs, you can talk to our experts.

Documents Required for License Application

To apply for the accounting and bookkeeping license Dubai, you need the following documents:

• Passport copy
• Passport sized photos
• Business plan
• Office lease contract
• Trade name certificate
• Initial approval receipt
• Professional qualification certificates
• Additional documents as asked for by the authority

Benefits of Atarting an Accounting Firm in Dubai

Here is why you should start accounting firm in Dubai:

Growing demand

There is a rising demand for reliable and expert bookkeeping, taxation, and accounting services, presenting promising opportunities for firms in this field.

Business ownership

In Dubai’s free zones, you can enjoy 100% ownership of your business without the need for a local sponsor or partner.

Tax savings

Benefit from significant tax savings with corporate tax exemptions and zero personal income tax.

Strategic location

Dubai’s geographical location makes it a perfect gateway to international markets, giving businesses access to a global client base.

Easy setup

Dubai offers low startup costs and a straightforward business setup process, making it easier for entrepreneurs to launch quickly.

Qualified workforce

The city has a diverse pool of skilled professionals, allowing you to easily find experts (such as qualified tax accountants) to meet your staffing requirements.

Modern infrastructure

Dubai provides advanced infrastructure, flexible office space options, strong internet connectivity, and facilities that support business operations.

Conclusion

Obtaining an accounting or bookkeeping license in Dubai can prove to be profitable move for you. The financial industry of UAE is one of the most consistently growing in the city and the demand for reliable accounting and bookkeeping services is tremendously increasing.

You can assist businesses with tax, financial statements, accountancy, auditing, payroll and many other tasks. To outperform the other accounting firms, you must focus on providing quality services, establish clear communication channels and stay updated with latest regulations and technology.

Start Accounting Firm in Dubai with Dubiz

Dubiz has been helping firms establish themselves in Dubai and across the UAE for over 8 years. With experience serving more than 7,000 clients from diverse industries, we have developed the expertise to get businesses up and running quickly and efficiently.

We provide end-to-end support for setting up your accounting and bookkeeping firm in Dubai, including:

• Company incorporation
• Trade licensing
• Visa processing
• Business bank account setup
• Taxation and accounting
• Compliance services

Our contact:

📞 Call: ‪+971 56 369 5485    

💬 WhatsApp: ‪+971563695485    

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

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