How to Get an Accounting, Auditing and Tax Services Business License in Dubai

Dubai's position as a global financial hub, combined with the UAE's landmark corporate tax rollout and mandatory audit requirements, has created surging demand for qualified accounting, auditing, and tax consultancy firms. This guide explains exactly how to obtain an Accounting, Auditing and Tax Services Business License (Activity Code 6920) at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, covering what the licence includes, who it suits, setup costs, and the compliance steps involved.

Key Stats at a Glance

• Activity Code: 6920 (Accounting, Auditing and Tax Services)

• Licence Type: Business Licence | Category: Professional

• UAE Corporate Tax Rate: 9% (effective June 2023)

• Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted in Dubai South Free Zone

• Typical Setup Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks

• Minimum Share Capital: None required for most professional structures

• Free Zones in UAE: Over 40, generating a large recurring client base

Why Dubai Is a Strong Base for Accounting and Tax Services

The introduction of UAE corporate tax at 9% from June 2023 has fundamentally changed the compliance landscape for businesses operating across the Emirates. Companies of all sizes now require professional guidance on registration, filing obligations, and tax planning, creating a sustained and growing market for qualified tax consultants and accountants.

With over 40 free zones and a rapidly expanding SME sector, Dubai offers a large, recurring client base for professional services firms. Dubai South's strategic location adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport further enhances its appeal, enabling firms to serve regional and international clients with ease.

For overseas professionals, the free zone model is particularly attractive. One hundred per cent foreign ownership is permitted within Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, removing the need for a local partner and making market entry straightforward. The regulatory environment remains stable, governed by the UAE Federal Tax Authority and the Ministry of Economy, giving businesses and their clients confidence in the legal framework underpinning financial services.

What the Licence Covers and Who It Suits

Activity Code 6920, as defined under the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) system, covers accounting, bookkeeping, auditing, and tax consultancy services. The licence category is Professional, reflecting the skill-based nature of these activities. Permitted activities span the preparation of financial statements, statutory audits, payroll processing, VAT filing, and corporate tax advisory.

This licence is ideally suited to certified accountants, audit firms, tax advisers, and financial consultants seeking a UAE base from which to operate. It accommodates both solo practitioners and multi-partner professional firms looking to serve UAE-registered businesses across all sectors.

Accounting and Bookkeeping Activities

Under this licence, firms may carry out the recording of financial transactions, ledger maintenance, trial balance preparation, and the production of management accounts. These services form the operational backbone of any compliant business and are in constant demand across the UAE's diverse commercial landscape.

Auditing and Tax Consultancy Activities

The licence also covers statutory and internal audit engagements, VAT return preparation, corporate tax registration, and advisory services relating to UAE tax compliance obligations. As regulatory requirements continue to evolve, businesses increasingly rely on specialist firms to navigate their obligations accurately and on time.

Setup Costs and Licensing Requirements

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers competitive package pricing for professional licence categories, making it an accessible entry point for qualified professionals establishing a UAE presence. There is no minimum share capital requirement for most professional structures, which significantly reduces the initial financial barrier.

Key Cost Components

The primary expenditure items include the licence fee, establishment card, e-channel registration, and visa costs. The total investment varies depending on the visa quota selected and the package chosen. Applicants are encouraged to contact Dubai South directly for a tailored cost estimate based on their specific requirements.

Professional indemnity insurance is strongly recommended and may be a mandatory requirement for firms undertaking audit activities. Applicants must also hold relevant professional qualifications, such as ACCA, CPA, CA, or an equivalent credential recognised by the relevant regulatory bodies. No physical office is mandatory for flexi-desk packages, though a registered address at Dubai South is required for all licence holders.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Your Licence

The process of obtaining an Accounting, Auditing and Tax Services Business License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is structured and transparent. Following each step carefully ensures a smooth and timely application.

• Step 1: Confirm that Activity Code 6920 applies to your intended services and select the relevant activities from the permitted list.

• Step 2: Choose your company structure. A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) suits sole practitioners, while a Free Zone Company (FZC) is appropriate for partnerships or multi-shareholder arrangements.

• Step 3: Submit your application through Dubai South's online portal, including passport copies, a curriculum vitae, and copies of your professional qualification certificates.

• Step 4: Receive initial approval, sign the licence agreement, and pay the applicable fees.

• Step 5: Collect your business licence and establishment card, then proceed with a UAE residence visa application if required.

The timeline from application to licence issuance is typically two to four weeks, subject to the completeness of submitted documents. Firms intending to offer VAT or corporate tax agent services should note that additional approvals from the UAE Federal Tax Authority may be required before those activities can commence.

Compliance Obligations After Licensing

Holding a business licence is an ongoing commitment. Annual renewal is mandatory, and failure to renew on time results in financial penalties and risks licence cancellation. Firms acting as registered tax agents must also enrol with the Federal Tax Authority and satisfy its fit-and-proper criteria before representing clients in tax matters.

Accounting and audit firms operating in the UAE are classified as Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) under UAE Anti-Money Laundering regulations. This classification carries specific obligations, including customer due diligence, record-keeping, and suspicious transaction reporting.

Maintaining client confidentiality and adhering to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is expected for all audit engagements. Additionally, Economic Substance Regulations may apply depending on the nature of services provided to related parties, and licence holders should seek appropriate legal advice to assess their obligations in this area.

Conclusion

Obtaining an Accounting, Auditing and Tax Services Business License at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone under Activity Code 6920 gives qualified professionals a compliant, cost-effective platform to serve the UAE's growing demand for financial and tax expertise. With 100% foreign ownership, no minimum share capital for professional structures, and a streamlined setup process, Dubai South represents a compelling destination for accounting and tax professionals looking to establish or expand their UAE operations.

Contact the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone team today to receive a tailored cost estimate and begin your licence application.

Frequently Asked Questions

References and Citations

• UAE Federal Tax Authority - Official Portal

• UAE Ministry of Economy

• Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

• International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS Foundation)

• UNODC - Anti-Money Laundering Overview

• UAE Corporate Tax - Federal Tax Authority