Dubai has become a global hub for businesses of every scale—from startups to multinationals. As companies grow, so does the need for accounting services, tax advisory, and financial compliance experts. If you’re a finance professional or firm looking to start a company in this space, the first thing you need is a valid Accounting & Tax Consultants License in Dubai, UAE.
This detailed guide will explain everything you need to know—who can apply, the process, required approvals, costs, and the opportunities waiting in this high-demand industry.
What is an Accounting and Tax Consultants License in Dubai?
An Accounting & Tax Consultants License is a professional license that allows individuals or firms to offer services like bookkeeping, VAT filing, financial reporting, business audits, and tax planning to companies in the UAE.
This license is issued by:
- The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses
- Or by one of the many Free Zone authorities if you prefer a Free Zone setup
Once licensed, you can legally offer financial services to local and international businesses that operate in Dubai or across the UAE.
Why Dubai is a Hotspot for Tax and Accounting Firms
The UAE has implemented several financial reforms in recent years, including Value Added Tax (VAT), corporate tax, and economic substance regulations (ESR). This makes it necessary for businesses to comply with new accounting standards and tax laws. As a result, there is strong and growing demand for qualified accountants, tax consultants, and financial auditors.
In addition to this, Dubai’s investor-friendly policies and access to global markets make it one of the best places to start a finance consultancy business.
Who Can Apply for an Accounting & Tax Consultants License?
This license is suitable for:
- Certified accountants and financial analysts
- Tax professionals and auditors
- CPA holders or ACCA/CMA/CA-qualified individuals
- Firms that offer corporate finance, compliance, and taxation services
If you’re an individual, you’ll need to show proof of qualifications. For firms, at least one partner must be certified in accounting or tax-related fields.
Services You Can Offer With an Accounting License in Dubai
The Accounting & Tax Consultants License in Dubai allows you to provide a wide range of services, including:
- Financial accounting and bookkeeping
- Corporate tax planning and advisory
- VAT registration, filing, and compliance
- Internal audits and forensic accounting
- Payroll processing and employee tax advisory
- Budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis
- CFO outsourcing and strategic financial planning
You may also consult on financial restructuring, mergers, and business valuations depending on your expertise and client needs.
Mainland vs Free Zone License for Accounting and Tax Firms
Before starting your license application, you need to choose between mainland or Free Zone registration. Both have their pros and cons.
Mainland Accounting License
A mainland license, issued by the Dubai DED, lets you serve clients across the UAE without limitations. It’s perfect if you want to:
- Open your office in the city
- Sign contracts with local companies or government clients
- Hire staff without quota restrictions
- Have direct dealings with mainland businesses
This structure gives you more flexibility and growth potential. However, setup costs are slightly higher than Free Zone options.
Free Zone Accounting License
A Free Zone license is ideal if you want:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Faster setup and simplified regulation
- Tax exemptions on imports and profits
- Access to office packages like flexi-desks
It’s great for freelancers or firms working online or remotely. But, to serve mainland clients, you’ll need a local distributor or service agent.
Some Free Zones offering this license include:
- IFZA
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Accounting & Tax Consultants License
Setting up your accounting or tax firm in Dubai involves a few clear steps. The process is simple, especially when handled by professionals.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Depending on whether you’re setting up solo or as a firm, choose from:
- Sole Establishment (for individuals)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) (for firms with partners)
- Free Zone Company (for 100% foreign-owned entities)
Each structure has different document and setup requirements.
Step 2: Select Your Business Activities
While applying for your license, you’ll need to mention the specific services you’ll offer. For example:
- Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Tax Advisory
- VAT Consultancy
- Financial Consulting
Only the services approved under your license will be legally allowed. You can also add multiple activities related to financial consultancy.
Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name
Pick a business name that reflects your services. It must follow UAE guidelines:
- No use of religious or political terms
- Must not match any registered business
- Should reflect your consultancy nature (e.g., “XYZ Tax & Accounting”)
Once approved, you’ll receive a trade name reservation certificate.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval
Submit your documents to get the initial approval from the DED or Free Zone. This approval is not the license itself but gives you the green light to proceed with setting up your office and completing the rest of the process.
Step 5: Secure an Office or Workspace
To get your final license, you must show proof of a physical office space. For mainland licenses, this means a tenancy contract and Ejari registration. Free Zones offer flexible desk packages, shared offices, and small units ideal for consultants and startups.
Step 6: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
With your office ready, submit all documents, including:
- Passport copy and visa page
- Trade name reservation
- Initial approval letter
- Qualification certificates
- Office lease agreement
Once verified, your Accounting & Tax Consultants License in Dubai will be issued.
Cost of Accounting & Tax Consultancy License in Dubai
The cost of setting up an accounting firm in Dubai varies based on your location, office size, visa needs, and additional services.
Here’s a rough estimate:
- Mainland license: AED 15,000 to AED 30,000
- Free Zone license: AED 12,000 to AED 20,000
- Office rent (Ejari): AED 10,000 to AED 25,000
- Employee visas (per visa): AED 3,500 to AED 5,000
- Branding, logo, website: AED 5,000 to AED 10,000
The total setup can range from AED 25,000 to AED 60,000+ depending on scale.
Legal Requirements and Certifications
While you don’t need to be a UAE national to apply, you must meet minimum professional requirements:
- A recognized degree in accounting or finance
- Optional certifications like ACCA, CMA, CPA, or CA
- Work experience in accounting or taxation
Some Free Zones may request proof of qualification or a CV to issue a professional license.
Can You Offer Corporate Tax Advisory in Dubai?
Yes. With a valid accounting and tax license, you can assist businesses with:
- Corporate tax registration
- Tax planning and documentation
- Compliance with Federal Tax Authority (FTA) rules
However, it’s important to stay updated with new tax regulations and submit accurate filings for clients.
Benefits of Opening an Accounting Firm in Dubai
Starting your accounting or tax consultancy business in Dubai comes with major advantages:
- Stable and recurring client base
- High demand from SMEs, startups, and multinationals
- Zero personal income tax
- Opportunity to expand into CFO services, ESR reporting, or M&A advisory
- Flexibility to work with local and global clients
With the right positioning, your firm can build long-term relationships with companies looking to remain compliant in a fast-changing business environment.
Renewing Your License and Compliance
Your license needs to be renewed every year. You’ll also need to keep the following up to date:
- Employee visas and insurance
- Financial audit reports (if required)
- Tax filing schedules
- Office lease and Ejari registration
Renewals are smooth if all documents are maintained properly.
Conclusion
Launching your own accounting and tax consultancy in Dubai is more than just a business—it’s a long-term opportunity to serve one of the most dynamic markets in the world. As businesses strive to stay compliant with evolving tax laws, there’s a constant demand for qualified tax consultants and experienced accountants.
Getting your Accounting & Tax Consultants License in Dubai, UAE is the key to starting this journey legally and successfully. Whether you’re a seasoned CPA or a startup consultancy firm, the licensing process is clear, efficient, and supportive of your growth.
To make the setup process even smoother, consider working with experts who specialize in Business Setup in Dubai, UAE. They’ll guide you from choosing the right structure to getting approvals and launching your services with full legal backing.
FAQs
What type of license is needed to offer accounting services in Dubai?
You’ll need a professional services license under the activity of Accounting and Bookkeeping Services or Tax Consultancy.
Can a foreigner open an accounting firm in Dubai?
Yes, expats can open 100% owned firms in both Free Zones and through LLC structures in the mainland.
Is it mandatory to have a degree or certification?
Yes. You must have a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Recognized certifications like CPA, CA, CMA, or ACCA are recommended.
What is the cost of starting an accounting firm in Dubai?
Setup costs can range between AED 25,000 to AED 60,000, including license fees, office rent, and initial branding.
Can I provide corporate tax advisory with this license?
Yes, once licensed, you can help businesses with corporate tax registration, tax filing, and FTA compliance.
Do I need a physical office to apply for a license?
Yes. Mainland firms require an Ejari office, while Free Zones offer virtual and co-working spaces suitable for consultants.
