How to Get an Audit License in the UAE – complete guide 2025

The growing demand for credible financial oversight has made audit licensing a crucial step for professionals and firms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Suppose you want to work legally and develop confidence with your clients. In that case, you need to know how to get audit license in the UAE, whether you're an independent auditor or a professional accounting firm.

This complete guide tells you everything you need to know, from who may get a license and what paperwork is needed to the cost of a Dubai license, the many types of licenses available, and how to renew your license. 

What is an audit license in the UAE?

An audit license is a type of professional business license that allows individuals or firms to conduct financial audits, assurance services, and statutory reviews. Only those who meet specific qualifications and regulatory standards are permitted to obtain this license in the UAE.

If your firm also offers advisory services related to financial structuring, you may find our guide on Tax Planning and structuring helpful.

Who Needs an Audit License?

You need an audit license in the UAE if you are:

• A Chartered Accountant (CA)

• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

• A registered auditing or assurance firm

• Offering professional financial audit services

Types of Audit Licenses in UAE

You can choose from the following business license structures based on your goals and preferred location:

• Mainland License: Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED)

• Free Zone License: Offered in zones like DMCC, IFZA, SHAMS, etc.

• Offshore License: Ideal for international operations with limited onshore access.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Audit License in UAE

If you want to get an audit license in the UAE, here’s a simple step-by-step process:

1. _{Check Eligibility}

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

• Professional certification (CA, CPA, or ACCA)

• 2–3 years of relevant experience.

2. Gather Required Documents

• Passport copy

• Educational and professional certificates

• Updated CV

• Tenancy contract or Ejari (Dubai-specific)

• No Objection Certificate (if employed)

• Business plan.

3. Submit Application

• Select your jurisdiction: Mainland or Free Zone.

• Reserve a trade name.

• Obtain initial approval

• Lease an office or secure a flexi-desk.

• Submit all documents

• Pay fees and receive your business license.

Licensing Authorities in UAE

Different jurisdictions issue the audit license depending on where you plan to operate:

• DED (Dubai Economic Department)

• DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)

• IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)

• SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)

Dubai License Cost for Audit Firms

The cost of obtaining a license for audit firms in Dubai varies depending on setup preferences. Here's a general estimate:

Government Fees:

• Trade name registration: AED 600–1,200

• Initial approval: AED 200–500

• License issuance: AED 10,000–15,000

• Ministry of Economy registration (if required): AED 3,000–5,000

Other Costs:

• Office rent: AED 12,000–30,000 annually

• Sponsor fees (if required): AED 5,000+

• Visa and immigration: AED 3,000–7,000

• Translation and documentation: AED 1,000

💼 Tip: RAS Corporate Advisors offers business license packages starting at AED 18,999, which include legal paperwork, office space, and government approvals.

License Renewal for Audit Firms

Your audit license requires annual license renewal. It’s important to renew on time to avoid fines or disruptions.

Renewal Timeline

• Must be done annually

• Begin at least 30 days before the expiry date.

Renewal Costs

• License renewal fees: AED 10,000–14,000

• Office rent and visa renewal may add to the cost.

Penalties for Late Renewal

• Fines starting at AED 500

• License suspension or cancellation

• Visa freezes for employees.

Renewal Checklist

• Valid Ejari/tenancy contract

• Emirates ID and visa copy

• Cleared any outstanding fines

• Paid all license renewal fees.

Conclusion: Set up your audit firm with confidence.

Understanding how to get an audit license in the UAE involves more than just paperwork—it requires the right qualifications, local compliance knowledge, and a seamless process for both application and renewal.

At RAS Corporate Advisors, we handle everything for you—from selecting the ideal jurisdiction to managing the Dubai license cost and submitting all required documentation.

Book your FREE consultation today and let our experts guide you through every step.

📞 Contact us now to launch your audit firm in the UAE with confidence and speed.

FAQs – How to Get Audit License in UAE

• How often is license renewal required for an audit firm?
  License renewal is mandatory annually for all auditing firms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Late license renewal can lead to fines, suspensions, or visa issues.

 

• Is a degree required to get an audit license in UAE?
  Yes, a relevant degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is mandatory if you want to know how to get audit license in UAE and qualify for a professional business license.

 

• What is the Dubai license cost for an audit firm?
  The cost for setting up an audit firm typically ranges between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000, excluding office and visa expenses. Knowing the full Dubai license cost helps you plan your investment.

 

• How long does it take to get an audit license in UAE?
  If you're wondering how to get audit license in UAE quickly, the process usually takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the jurisdiction and completeness of your documents.

 

• How to get audit license in UAE as an expat?
  Yes, expats can apply. Many UAE free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, making it easy for qualified expats to understand how to get an audit license in the UAE without needing a local partner.

 

• How often is license renewal required for an audit firm?
  License renewal is mandatory annually for all auditing firms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Late license renewal can lead to fines, suspensions, or visa issues.

 

• What's the difference between a general business license and an audit license in UAE?
  An audit license is a specialized business license that requires professional certifications, such as a Certified Accountant (CA) or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), unlike a general business license, which may have broader, less stringent requirements.

 

• Can I reduce the Dubai license cost through RASS Corporate Advisors?
  Yes, RAS Corporate Advisors offers affordable packages that cover government fees, office setup, and legal paperwork — helping you reduce your overall Dubai license cost while obtaining your audit license.

 

• What happens if I miss my license renewal deadline?
  Missing your license renewal can result in penalties starting from AED 500, possible suspension of your business license, and issues with employee visas.