Getting your audit licence in the UAE is your ticket to a wealth of professional opportunities within the region’s thriving business environment. The process, overseen by the Ministry of Economy (MoE), includes a range of strict requirements, such as educational qualifications, practical experience, and recognised certifications.
You’ll need to complete a detailed application and examination process, keeping up to date with the latest International Financial Reporting Standards and UAE-specific regulations. We’ll carefully outline the steps you’ll need to take to get your audit licence in the UAE, from meeting the educational and experience criteria to acing the exams and keeping your licence valid through ongoing professional development.
Whether you’re a local resident or an international applicant, we’ll give you the essential steps for beginning a reputable auditing career in the UAE.
Audit Licence Requirements in the UAE
Essential Educational Qualifications
- Individuals must have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related fields from a recognised institution.
- Non-accounting graduates must have at least 15 credit hours of accredited accounting courses.
- A master’s degree provides a competitive edge, but it is not mandatory.
Required Professional Experience
- Minimum of 5 years post-degree auditing experience.
Expatriates must meet additional UAE-based auditing experience requirements based on their international experience. Specifically, one year of UAE experience is required if you have over 10 years of international experience, two years if you have between 5 to 10 years, and three years if your experience is between 2 to 5 years.
Recognised Professional Certifications
- Professional certifications such as ACCA (UK), ICAEW (England and Wales), CPA (USA, Australia, Canada), and SOCPA (Saudi Arabia) provide exemptions from the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and auditing standards exams.
- All applicants must still pass the UAE Legislation and Tax exam.
Mandatory UAE Fellowship Programme and Exams
The UAE Fellowship Programme ensures auditors practising in the UAE meet the highest professional and ethical standards. Managed by the Emirates Association of Accountants & Auditors (EAAA) alongside the MoE and ACCA, obtaining the UAE Fellowship Certificate is essential for audit licensing.
To achieve the UAE Fellowship Certificate, follow these clear steps:
1. Register For EAAA Membership
Register as a member of the Emirates Association of Accountants & Auditors (EAAA).
2. Meet Educational Qualifications
Obtain a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Non-accounting graduates require at least 15 accredited accounting credit hours.
3. Acquire Professional Experience
Gain at least five years of practical auditing experience post-degree.
4. Pass the Required Exams
Successfully complete the three required exams:
- International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
- International Standards on Auditing (ISA).
- UAE Laws & Taxation.
Provide proof for exemptions from IFRS and ISA exams if holding certain international professional certifications.
5. Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
Complete at least 30 hours of CPE annually, with a minimum of 12 hours in core subjects (accounting standards, auditing standards, UAE legislation and taxation).
6. Receive Your UAE Fellowship Certificate
Submit your application to EAAA upon successful completion of the above steps.
Exam Structure
- Each exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions, requiring a minimum of 60% to pass.
- Exams are administered online by the ACCA, supervised at designated British Council centres in the UAE.
- Exams must be completed within two years of passing the first exam.
Recommended Study Resources
- Extensive study materials and practice guides are provided by ACCA, MoE, and EAAA.
- Regular practice exams and self-assessment tools are strongly advised to enhance exam readiness.
How to Obtain Your Individual Audit Licence (Post-Fellowship Certificate)
After obtaining your UAE Fellowship Certificate:
1. Obtain Professional Indemnity Insurance
Obtain mandatory insurance coverage with a minimal amount of AED 500,000 (USD 126,130) for sole practitioners.
2. Register with the MoE
Submit all required documentation and pay the licensing fees:
AED 100 (USD 27) application fee.
AED 4,500 (USD 1225) for a three-year individual auditor licence.
How to Set Up an Audit Firm in the UAE
1. Choose a Business Name
Select a suitable business name and ensure it’s available and compliant with UAE regulations.
2. Form a Partnership
Include at least one UAE national partner holding a minimum of 25% ownership. At least two partners are required, each with a minimum of five years of auditing experience.
3. Verify Individual Licences
Confirm all partners hold valid MoE auditor licences.
4. Implement a Risk Management Framework
Ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.
5. Establish Firm Credentials
International firms must demonstrate at least five years of licensed auditing experience in their home country.
6. Secure Business Premises
Obtain office space meeting regulatory standards.
7. Open a Business Bank Account
Choose a reputable bank and open a business account to manage your firm’s financial activities.
8. Acquire Professional Indemnity Insurance
Obtain mandatory insurance coverage with a minimum annual amount of AED 1,000,000 (USD 272,260).
9. Complete MoE Registration
Submit required documentation and pay registration fees:
- Application fee: AED 100 (USD 27).
- Licence fee (3 years): AED 10,500 (USD 2,860).
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Maintaining and Renewing Your Audit Licence
Once you’ve secured your audit licence, it’s essential to maintain compliance and stay updated with ongoing regulatory and professional requirements. Follow these guidelines:
Renewal Cycle and Procedures
Audit licences are valid for three years. Renewal involves verifying continued eligibility and adherence to auditing standards and regulatory requirements.
Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
Auditors must complete at least 30 hours of CPD annually, as mandated by their recognised professional body. Audit firms must maintain accurate records of auditors’ CPD activities.
Staying Updated
Auditors must stay informed about changes in auditing standards, including the Global Internal Audit Standards, which have been effective since January 9, 2025.
Ethical Standards and Consequences of Non-Compliance
Auditors must strictly adhere to ethical guidelines, emphasising integrity, objectivity, and independence. Violations can lead to severe penalties such as financial fines, licence revocation, imprisonment, restrictions on business activities, or prohibition from practising.
Auditing Requirements Under UAE Corporate Tax
The UAE Corporate Tax, effective since 1 June 2023, requires eligible businesses to register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and comply by paying corporate tax.
Firms with annual revenue exceeding AED 50 million must submit audited financial statements prepared by MoE-licensed auditors.
Qualifying Free Zone entities must submit audited accounts to retain eligibility for the 0% corporate tax rate.
For comprehensive details and registration guidelines, visit the official FTA website.
Your Path to Auditing Success in the UAE
Obtaining and maintaining your audit licence in the UAE positions you as a trusted professional in a critical sector. By following this comprehensive guide, adhering to ongoing educational requirements, and staying informed on regulatory updates, you’ll establish a rewarding and respected career.
Whether you’re setting up as an individual auditor or establishing an audit firm, at Virtuzone, we provide comprehensive business setup and PRO solutions tailored to your specific needs. We offer expert assistance with company formation, licensing, local sponsorship, visa processing, government liaison, regulatory compliance, and ongoing PRO support—helping you effectively manage your administrative processes both on the UAE mainland and within the country’s many free zones.
To smoothly navigate your auditing journey and ensure full compliance from day one, get in touch with Virtuzone’s experienced specialists for a free consultation today.
FAQs
Do I Need to Retake the Exam When I Renew My Audit Licence?
No, retaking the exam is not required when renewing your audit licence in the UAE. However, auditors must fulfil the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements, which include completing at least 30 hours of CPD annually, with a minimum of 12 hours in core subjects such as accounting standards, auditing standards, UAE legislation, and taxation. Additionally, auditors must maintain valid professional indemnity insurance and submit the necessary documentation and fees to the Ministry of Economy within the specified renewal period.
Can Expatriates Become Licensed Auditors in the UAE?
Yes, expatriates can become licensed auditors in the UAE, provided they meet the educational qualifications, professional experience, and certification requirements set by the Ministry of Economy. This includes obtaining the UAE Fellowship Certificate and fulfilling any additional criteria specified by the MoE.
What Happens if I Fail One of the Required Exams?
If you fail one of the required exams, you can retake it within the two-year timeframe from passing the first exam. There is no limit to the number of attempts within this period, allowing you to prepare and reattempt as needed.
How Often Must I Renew My Audit Licence?
Audit licences in the UAE are valid for three years. Renewal applications should be submitted within 60 days before the licence’s expiration and no later than 10 months after its completion. Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted practice and compliance with regulatory requirements
Do All Audit Firms Need a UAE National Partner?
Yes, audit firms in the UAE must include at least one UAE national partner holding a minimum of 25% ownership. This requirement ensures local representation and compliance with national regulations governing audit practices.
Who Can Perform Audits in the UAE?
Only licensed and registered auditors are authorised to conduct audits in the UAE. These auditors must hold valid licences issued by the Ministry of Economy or relevant local authorities and possess recognised professional qualifications such as CPA, ACCA, or CA, along with substantial auditing experience.
How Do I Become an External Auditor in Dubai?
Obtain a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, pursue recognised professional certifications, gain relevant experience, pass the UAE’s Auditor Certification Examination, and apply for a licence through the UAE Ministry of Economy or relevant local authority.
