Industry Experience
Ask for examples of similar clients in your sector — trading, services, real estate and holding structures each raise different audit issues.
BUYER'S GUIDE
Choosing an Audit Firm in Dubai: What to Ask Before You Engage
Practical questions to ask before appointing an audit firm in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, so you choose a firm that fits your industry, free zone and reporting needs.
INFORMATION FIRSTThe right questions matter more than the lowest quote.START HERE
Confirm the Basics First
Is the firm registered to practise audit in the UAE, and is your specific free zone (e.g. DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, ADGM) on its approved auditor list where one applies?Who will actually lead the engagement, and what is their experience with businesses your size and industry?What is the expected timeline from fieldwork to signed financial statements, and does it fit your licence renewal or filing deadline?
SCOPE & FIT
Questions About Your Specific Engagement
Free Zone Familiarity
Confirm the firm understands your free zone's specific filing deadlines, audit format requirements and renewal process.
Scope of Services
Clarify whether the engagement covers only the statutory audit, or also VAT/Corporate Tax review, advisory input and management letter recommendations.
Fee Structure
Ask for a written fee proposal tied to defined scope, and what triggers additional fees (e.g. incomplete records, late document delivery).
RED FLAGS
Signs to Be Cautious About
A quote given without any discussion of your business, transaction volume or industryNo named engagement partner or manager you can speak with directlyReluctance to explain how independence and conflicts of interest are managedPromises about audit outcomes before any fieldwork has taken place
MAKING THE DECISION
Choose Fit, Not Just Price
The lowest quote is rarely the best long-term choice if it comes with limited availability, generic industry knowledge, or unclear scope. A good audit relationship saves time every year once the firm understands your business, your free zone's rules and your systems.
BEGIN WITH KNOWLEDGE AND CLARITY