What to Look for When Hiring an Accountant in the UAE. A Business Owner’s Guide to Smarter Finances
By Kitaab on March 27, 2025
This guide helps you hire the right Accountant in the UAE by covering qualifications, industry expertise, technology, and costs. Ensure accuracy, compliance, and financial efficiency with the right expert on your side.
Managing your company’s books and finances is a crucial task that comes with a lot of pressure. Make one wrong turn, and you could wind up dealing with tax issues, facing penalties, and losing money. To avoid accounting mistakes and ensure your company’s books are as accurate as possible, you might consider finding an accountant.
What's Kitaab?
Kitaab provides finance, accounting and tax services for freelancers, start-ups and businesses in the service sector
Learn moreMoreover, an accountant keeps your business compliant with UAE tax laws, manages VAT and corporate tax filings, and ensures precise budgeting and cash flow management. Whether it’s bookkeeping or strategic financial planning, hiring the right expert prevents costly mistakes and frees up your time to focus on growth. But with so many options, how do you find an accountant in the UAE that fits your business needs? Let’s break it down.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Accountant for Your Business
Not all accountants are created equal. To find the perfect fit for your business, consider the following key factors:
1. Qualifications & Certifications
A qualified accountant in the UAE ensures compliance with regional regulations and minimizes financial risks. Look for credentials such as:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Chartered Accountant (CA)
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
UAE Chartered Accountants
Make sure they are registered with UAE authorities to avoid compliance issues.
2. Industry-Specific Experience
While certifications matter, practical experience is equally important. When hiring an Accountant in the UAE, consider:
Their experience handling VAT and corporate tax in the UAE
Familiarity with financial challenges in your industry (e.g., retail, tech startups, e-commerce)
Their ability to offer financial advice beyond bookkeeping
An Accountant in the UAE with industry knowledge can navigate sector-specific tax laws and financial complexities more effectively.
3. Technological Proficiency
Modern accounting is powered by automation and cloud-based tools. Your accountant should be skilled in:
Accounting software like Kitaab, Xero, QuickBooks, or Zoho Books
Financial documentation and database management
Compliance tools for VAT, corporate tax, and payroll
A tech-savvy accountant streamlines processes, minimizes errors, and improves financial efficiency.
4. Cost vs. Value
When hiring an Accountant in the UAE, consider it an investment in your business’s financial health. Whether you hire an in-house accountant or outsource to a firm, compare costs with the value they bring. Some businesses benefit more from a full-service accounting firm rather than hiring an individual. Hiring an in-house accountant gives you direct control and a dedicated resource for your financial needs. However, outsourcing gives you access to industry experts, automation, and compliance support, all without the overhead costs
How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Accountant in the UAE?
The cost of hiring an Accountant in the UAE depends on the level of service required. Here’s a general estimate:
Bookkeeping (Monthly): AED 500 – 3,000
VAT Filing & Compliance: AED 1,000 – 5,000
Corporate Tax Filing: AED 3,000 – 10,000
Payroll & WPS Processing: AED 25 – 200 per transaction
Full Accounting & CFO Services: AED 5,000 – 20,000
Simplify Your Finances with Kitaab
Kitaab provides comprehensive accounting services with a dedicated personal accountant in the UAE. Your personal accountant ensures accuracy, compliance, and real-time financial insights, guiding you whenever you need support.
Experience hassle-free bookkeeping and expert financial management with Kitaab today!