How to Get an Accounting and Bookkeeping License
To get an accounting and bookkeeping license in Dubai, UAE, follow these steps: 1) Choose a trade name and register it with the Dubai Economy (DED) or a free zone like IFZA or DMCC. 2) Select business activities (e.g., accounting, bookkeeping, auditing) for your professional services license. 3) Submit documents like passport copy, professional CV, and accounting degree or CPA certification. 4) Secure an office space (physical or virtual office). 5) Pay license fees (starting at AED 14,900 in free zones or AED 15,000 in mainland). 6) Obtain initial approval and finalize the business license. Costs range from AED 14,900 to AED 25,000, depending on visa quota and office rental. Expatriates can apply with 100% ownership in free zones or mainland, and CPA holders are recognized. Always consult business setup consultants in Dubai for compliance with Dubai business regulations.

How to Get an Accounting and Bookkeeping License in Dubai, UAE

The rapid growth of Dubai as an international business centre is largely attributed to its favourable policies, which tempt entrepreneurs to set up an accounting business in Dubai or a bookkeeping business in Dubai. There is an increasing demand for economic scrutiny and transparency due to the corporate tax and VAT laws in place, which makes acquiring an accounting and bookkeeping license worthwhile for accountants, auditors, and tax consultants. If you’re a CPA or even an expatriate, you’ll find Dubai’s business regulations very accommodating if you wish to open an accounting, auditing, or bookkeeping company in the UAE. This guide for 2025 gives you all the necessary information-related details like license prerequisites, costs, procedures, and advice for operating from the mainland or a free zone like DMCC or IFZA. So, let’s go ahead and learn how one may begin their company formation in Dubai.  

Why Start an Accounting and Bookkeeping Business in Dubai? 

Dubai is a leading business hotspot in the UAE due to its strategic location, taxes, and 100% ownership policies. The need to set up an accounting business in Dubai or a bookkeeping business in Dubai is growing because managing finances has become increasingly important across the markets.

Benefits of an Accounting Business in Dubai

• Tax Benefits: Maintain 0% personal tax alongside a low 9% corporate tax (on profits over AED 375,000), facilitating hassle-free profit repatriation.
• Varied Clientele: Cater to entrepreneurial expats and startups at Sheikh Zayed Road or Business Bay Malls, to multinational corporations.
• International Reach: Provide accounting services from Dubai to clients around the world.
• Marketing and Networking Solutions: Interact with businesses based at International City or DMCC, increasing your business transactions.
• Regulatory Backing: Enjoy the convenience of Dubai business policies that are friendlier and less bureaucratic than other countries.

Demand for Accounting, Auditing, and Bookkeeping Services 

There are more than 30,000 startups in the UAE every year, which means there is no shortage of demand for accounting, auditing, and bookkeeping firms. There is an increased requirement for:

• Preparing financial statements to comply with newly imposed corporate taxation and 5% VAT.
• Performing statutory audits to assist consulting firms with business management.
• Multi-level tax return filing and registration of corporate tax.
• Revenue management and cash flow bookkeeping.
• Providing financial guidance amid strict Anti-Money Laundering and ESG regulations.

What Is an Accounting and Bookkeeping License in Dubai? 

An accounting and bookkeeping license is a type of professional services license granted by the Dubai Economy (DED) or freezone authorities such as IFZA, DMCC, or SRTIP. It permits you to legally practice your profession as a financial service provider in the Dubai region and the whole UAE.

Professional Services License Explained

This type of business license is meant for professionals such as chartered accountants, tax consultants, and auditors. It provides legal governance on the enforcement of UAE Commercial Companies Law and IFRS compliance requirements. Unlike a general trading license, it concentrates on financial knowledge and skills. 

Activities Covered by the License

Your accounting business license in Dubai is inclusive of the following:

• Accounting: Involves the preparation of financial statements and the creation of accounting systems.
• Bookkeeping: Refers to dealing with day to day accounting documents and tax returns.
• Auditing: Includes statutory audits or audit procedures.
• Tax Consulting: Involves VAT, corporate tax and tax exemption advising.
• Financial Consultancy: Invoicing for investment policies or trade finance advice.

Pro Tip: What activities can an accounting license cover? The license supports cost accounting, stock trading analysis, and financial planning, ensuring financial health for clients.

Requirements for an Accounting and Bookkeeping License in Dubai 

Opening a bookkeeping, audit, and accounting firm necessitates satisfying either the DED or free zone conditions. These prerequisites verify your capability to deliver financial services.

Educational and Professional Qualifications 

• Degree: Usually, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.  
• Certifications: Holding a CPA license, CA, ACCA, or equivalent increases reputation significantly and might be necessary for some free zones.  
• Experience: A recommended 3 to 5 years of experience in accounting or tax consulting.  
• Professional CV: Provide a work profile that illustrates your financial qualifications.

 Document Checklist for License Application 

• All shareholders’ passport copies and a digital photo of the passport.  
• Emirates ID or entry permit (for those already in UAE).  
• Professional CV showcasing accounting credentials.  
• MOA and AOA (Memorandum and Articles of Association) of the company.  
• Tenancy contract or Ejari for office (optional in some Free Zones).  
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) if obligatory from free zone authority.

Pro Tip: Use e-signatures for faster document submission to speed up license approval.

Steps to Get an Accounting and Bookkeeping License in Dubai

Here’s a clear step-by-step approach to securing your accounting and bookkeeping license in Dubai, UAE.

Step 1: Choose a Trade Name 

Pick a trade name that reflects your accounting business. It must follow UAE Registry Office rules:

• No offensive or religious references.
• Include your full name if used (e.g., “Sarah’s Accounting Services”).
• Check availability with DED or free zone like DMCC.

Step 2: Select Business Activities 

Choose business activities like accounting, bookkeeping, auditing, or tax consulting from the DED or free zone activity list. Missing activities can lead to penalties, so consult business setup consultants in Dubai.

Step 3: Decide on a Mainland or Free Zone 

Decide between a mainland company setup or a business setup in freezone:

• Mainland: Trade anywhere in the UAE with 100% ownership (no local sponsor needed since 2021).
• Free Zone: Offers low taxes, virtual office options, and visa packages in zones like IFZA or SRTIP.

Step 4: Submit License Application 

Submit your license application to the Dubai Economy or free zone authority:

• Include shareholder documents (e.g., passport copy).
• Provide a business plan outlining your financial consultancy goals.
• Obtain initial approval from the authority.

Step 5: Secure Office Space 

• Mainland: Rent a business centre, shared office, or co-working space in areas like Business Bay.
• Free Zone: Opt for a virtual office (starting at AED 5,000/year) or office rental (e.g., furnished offices in DMCC).

Step 6: Pay Fees and Get a License

Pay license fees and receive your professional business license. Open a corporate bank account and apply for a UAE residence visa under your company formation in Dubai.

Pro Tip: How long does it take to get an accounting license? Typically, license issuance takes 1-3 weeks, depending on document verification.

Costs of an Accounting and Bookkeeping License in Dubai 

Costs vary based on business jurisdiction, visa quota, and office space. Here’s a breakdown:

Mainland License Costs 

• License Fee: AED 15,000 for a virtual license (renewable annually).
• Visa Costs: AED 4,000-6,000 per visa.
• Office Rental: AED 20,000-50,000/year for shared offices in Sheikh Zayed Road.
• Total: AED 39,000-71,000 for a basic setup.

Free Zone License Costs 

• License Fee: Starts at AED 14,900 (e.g., DSO-IFZA with 1 visa and virtual office).
• Visa Costs: AED 3,500-5,000 per visa.
• Office Space: AED 5,000 (virtual) to AED 30,000 (furnished office).
• Total: AED 14,900-35,000 for a basic setup.

Mainland vs Free Zone: Which Is Better for Your Accounting Firm? 

Choosing between the mainland and the free zone depends on your business goals and client base.

Mainland Advantages

• Trade Freedom: Operate across the UAE without restrictions.
• Proximity to Clients: Set up in business centres like Internet City for networking opportunities.
• Scalability: Easily hire staff and open branches with 100% expatriate ownership.

Free Zone Advantages 

• Cost Savings: Lower license fees and virtual office options reduce business setup costs.
• 100% Ownership: No need for a local sponsor.
• Visa Packages: Get UAE residence visas for you and your employees.
• Tax Benefits: Capital repatriation and low taxes boost profits.

Comparison Table:

Can a CPA or Expat Get an Accounting License in Dubai? 

Dubai welcomes Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and expatriates to start accounting firms.

CPA Recognition in Dubai {#cpa-recognition}

A CPA license is widely recognized in the UAE, especially in free zones like DMCC or DIFC. It meets professional qualifications requirements and enhances your financial credibility. CA and ACCA certifications are also accepted.

Pro Tip: Highlight your CPA designation on your business website to attract clients needing IFRS compliance or statutory audits.

Expat and Non-Resident Eligibility 

• Expatriates: Can apply with 100% ownership in mainland or free zones.
• Non-Residents: Eligible for free zone licenses with remote setup options, no Emirates ID required.
• Visa: Obtain a business visa Dubai (2-3 years) under your company formation.

Pro Tips: Can non-residents get an accounting license in Dubai? Yes, non-residents can use business setup consultants in Dubai to manage license consultation remotely.

Pro Tips for Starting an Accounting and Bookkeeping Firm in Dubai 

• Conduct Market Research: Analyze market dynamics to target startups or multinational corporations needing trade finance or stock trading services.
• Leverage Technology: Use data visualization tools for financial statements to impress clients.
• Build a Network: Attend industry meet-ups in DMCC or Business Bay to grow your client network.
• Stay Compliant: Monitor AML regulations and Economic Substance Regulation to avoid penalties.

Promote Expertise: Create a website showcasing your financial advisory services and tax exemptions knowledge.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them 

• Challenge: Choosing the right business jurisdiction.
  Solution: Consult experts to compare mainland company setup vs. business setup in freezone.
• Challenge: High office rental costs in mainland.
  Solution: Opt for shared offices or virtual licenses in free zones.
• Challenge: Navigating UAE financial regulations.
  Solution: Partner with business advisors for license consultation.
• Challenge: Building a client base.
  Solution: Offer financial planning or estate planning to attract diverse clients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q1: What qualifications are needed for an accounting license in Dubai?

You need an accounting degree, 3-5 years of experience, and certifications like CPA, CA, or ACCA. A professional CV is also required.

Q2: How much does an accounting license cost in Dubai in 2025?

Costs range from AED 14,900 (free zone) to AED 25,000 (mainland), including license fees, visa costs, and office rental.

Q3: Can expats get a bookkeeping license in Dubai?

Yes, expatriates enjoy 100% ownership in mainland or free zones and can apply for a UAE residence visa.

Q4: How long does it take to get a bookkeeping license?

The process takes 1-3 weeks, depending on document verification and initial approval.

Q5: How does an accounting license differ from an audit license?

An accounting license covers bookkeeping and financial reporting, while an audit license focuses on statutory audits and requires Ministry of Economy approval.

Conclusion 

Starting an accounting and bookkeeping business in Dubai is a golden opportunity in 2025, thanks to Dubai’s financial landscape and business-friendly environment. By securing an accounting business license in Dubai, you can offer accounting services, bookkeeping, auditing, or tax consulting to a diverse client base. Follow the steps: choose a trade name, select business activities, decide on mainland or free zone, submit your license application, secure an office space, and pay fees. Costs range from AED 14,900 to AED 25,000, with free zones like IFZA offering virtual office savings. CPAs and expatriates can thrive with 100% ownership and low taxes. Partner with business setup consultants in Dubai to navigate Dubai business regulations and launch your company formation in Dubai seamlessly. Ready to become a financial expert in the UAE? Start today!