Hiring the right chartered accountant in Dubai isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about finding someone who truly understands your business, speaks your language, and helps you stay compliant and confident—no matter how complex your finances may be. In a city buzzing with startups, growing SMEs, and high-value corporate deals, the right questions can save you from expensive mistakes. Whether you’re a new business owner or an established entrepreneur, asking these seven questions can help you choose the best chartered accountant in Dubai. 1. Are You Registered and Certified in the UAE? Before anything else, check if the accountant or the firm is licensed to operate in the UAE. This isn’t just a formality—working with a licensed and certified professional ensures you get advice that’s recognised by regulatory authorities. A proper license shows that the accountant is familiar with local laws, including VAT, ESR, and the latest corporate tax updates. If you’re working with a special audit firm in Dubai, they should also be approved by free zones like DMCC, JAFZA, or DAFZA, depending on your company’s location. 2. What Types of Businesses Do You Work With? Not all accountants are created equal. Some focus on small businesses, while others work mainly with large corporations. Ask whether they’ve worked with businesses similar to yours in size, industry, or complexity. If your company needs accounting and bookkeeping services in sectors like retail, logistics, or e-commerce, it’s important to choose someone with relevant industry experience. An accountant who understands your space will be more efficient and will give you better insights. 3. What Services Do You Offer Beyond Basic Bookkeeping? Some accountants will only offer traditional bookkeeping, while others might provide a full suite of services, including financial analysis, forecasting, tax planning, and audit support. If you’re looking to grow or scale, you’ll need more than just data entry. You’ll need someone who can analyse trends, suggest savings, and keep you tax-compliant. A special audit firm in Dubai should ideally also help with tax filing, ESR reports, and even internal process audits when required. The more value your accountant offers, the more they become a strategic partner—not just a vendor. 4. How Do You Stay Up-to-Date with UAE’s Changing Regulations? Tax regulations and compliance rules in Dubai change frequently. The introduction of Corporate Tax, changes in VAT laws, and international reporting standards have made things more complex than ever. Ask how your accountant keeps up with these changes. Do they attend workshops? Are they part of international accounting bodies? A good chartered accountant in Dubai stays proactive, not reactive. Because missing a regulatory update in the UAE can cost you—a lot. 5. Can You Help with VAT Filing and Compliance? VAT compliance in the UAE is a big deal. Even small businesses need to register for VAT once they cross the threshold, and that’s just the beginning. Filing returns, tracking input/output VAT, and handling audits are all part of the game. Ask if they handle VAT filing, and more importantly, how they ensure accuracy. An error here could lead to hefty penalties. So if they’re offering accounting and bookkeeping services, make sure VAT compliance is part of the package. Want a bonus tip? Check if they’ve handled VAT audits in Dubai before. It’s a big plus. 6. What Kind of Reporting Will I Receive? The real power of a great accountant is in the reporting. Will you get monthly reports? Cash flow statements? Profit & loss tracking? Clear, timely reporting can help you make smarter business decisions. You shouldn’t have to chase your accountant for updates. A reliable accountant in Dubai should give you easy-to-read reports, help you understand them, and be available to answer your questions. Remember, reports aren’t just paperwork—they’re your roadmap. 7. How Will You Support My Business During an Audit? Audits can be stressful, especially if you’re not prepared. That’s why you need to ask up front how your accountant will support you when the time comes. If you work with a special audit firm in Dubai, they should be able to conduct internal reviews before the actual audit, prepare you thoroughly, and be present during the audit process to represent your case. In short, they should have your back when things get serious. What You Should Expect from the Best Chartered Accountant in Dubai Choosing the best chartered accountant in Dubai means finding someone who doesn’t just do the basics—but someone who gets your vision. From managing daily accounting and bookkeeping services to preparing you for audits, your accountant should help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Also, if you’re scaling, they should guide you on budgets, cash flow, and risk assessment. Need help with both your tax filings and your growth strategy? The right accountant can do both. That’s why it’s crucial to ask the right questions from day one. Final Thoughts Hiring an accountant isn’t just about offloading paperwork. It’s about bringing someone into your team who’ll support your business growth, guide your decisions, and help you avoid expensive pitfalls. Asking these seven questions ensures that you’re making an informed choice—and building a partnership that lasts. So, whether you’re seeking someone for accounting and bookkeeping services, VAT support, or a special audit firm in Dubai, remember to go beyond the brochure. Have the conversation. Ask the hard questions. And always choose someone who understands your business as deeply as you do. However, AMD Audit has a qualified team of the best chartered accountants in the UAE, dedicated to guiding you through every financial challenge—whether it’s navigating complex tax regulations, ensuring compliance, or optimizing your financial strategies. With deep industry expertise and a client-first approach, our professionals provide tailored solutions that help your business grow with confidence and clarity. Because in the end, a great accountant doesn’t just crunch numbers—they build your business with you.
