Examination of Accounts and Certification of Their Accuracy Business Licence in Dubai: Cost and Requirements

As Dubai cements its position as a regional financial hub, demand for professional account examination and certification services is rising sharply across free zones and mainland entities alike. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining an Examination of Accounts and Certification of Their Accuracy licence (Activity Code 6920.03) at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including costs, requirements, and setup steps.

Key Stats at a Glance

• Activity Code: 6920.03

• Licence Type: Business Licence

• Category: Professional

• Foreign Ownership: 100 per cent permitted

• Corporate Tax Rate: 0 per cent for qualifying free zone entities

• Typical Processing Time: 3 to 5 working days

• Location: Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, near Al Maktoum International Airport

• ISIC Sector: Accounting, Bookkeeping, and Auditing Activities

Dubai Market Context and Why This Activity Is in Demand

The UAE's regulatory environment has evolved considerably in recent years, with tighter compliance obligations for businesses operating across mainland and free zone jurisdictions. This evolution has created sustained demand for qualified professionals who can independently examine financial accounts and certify their accuracy to the required standard.

Dubai South's strategic location adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport positions it at the heart of a fast-growing commercial corridor. As foreign direct investment into the UAE continues to rise, multinational subsidiaries and locally incorporated entities alike require independently verified financial statements to satisfy investor, regulatory, and banking requirements.

Activity Code 6920.03 sits within the ISIC-classified sector of accounting, bookkeeping, and auditing activities, a category that encompasses the formal review, attestation, and certification of financial records. With the UAE's broader push towards financial transparency and governance, professionals operating in this space are well placed to capture growing demand.

What the Licence Covers and Who It Suits

The Examination of Accounts and Certification of Their Accuracy licence permits the holder to examine financial accounts on behalf of clients and issue formal certifications confirming the accuracy of those records. This covers professional review, verification, and attestation of financial statements, ledgers, and supporting documentation.

The licence is particularly suited to certified accountants, practising auditors, and financial consultants who wish to establish an independent professional base within a free zone environment. It is equally relevant for professionals serving SMEs, multinational subsidiaries, and other free zone entities that require a qualified, independent party to sign off on their financial records for regulatory, audit, or commercial purposes.

Business Licence Category: Professional

This activity is classified under the Professional licence category at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone. Unlike a commercial or industrial licence, a Professional licence recognises that the service being delivered is skill-based and knowledge-driven. As a result, applicants are expected to demonstrate relevant professional qualifications and credentials at the point of application, ensuring that those practising under this licence meet the standards expected of the activity.

Licensing Requirements and Compliance Obligations

To apply for this licence at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, applicants must submit the following documentation:

• Valid passport copies for all shareholders and directors

• Proof of professional qualifications relevant to account examination and certification

• A business plan outlining the intended scope of services

• A no-objection certificate if the applicant is currently employed in the UAE under a separate visa

One of the most commercially significant features of Dubai South's free zone framework is that 100 per cent foreign ownership is permitted, removing the requirement for a local partner or sponsor. Licence holders must renew their licence annually and remain compliant with UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies. Compliance with the UAE Cabinet Resolution on Ultimate Beneficial Owner registration is also required, ensuring that the true ownership of the entity is properly disclosed and recorded.

Setup Costs and Step-by-Step Process

Costs for establishing a licence at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone depend on the office package selected and the number of visas required under the entity. Typical components of the overall setup cost include:

The step-by-step setup process is as follows:

• Step one: Submit your completed application form and supporting documents to Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

• Step two: Receive initial approval from the free zone authority

• Step three: Pay the applicable fees and sign the licence agreement

• Step four: Obtain your issued licence and activate your entity

Estimated Timeline

Standard processing is typically completed within three to five working days following the submission of all required documentation. In cases where additional regulatory approvals are required from external bodies, the overall timeline may be extended accordingly. Engaging with the free zone's business setup team early in the process can help identify any such requirements in advance.

Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone Is Well-Positioned for This Trade

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a compelling environment for professionals in the account examination and certification space. Its proximity to Expo City Dubai and Al Maktoum International Airport means it sits within one of the UAE's most active zones for global business activity, attracting logistics firms, multinational tenants, and SMEs that all require professional financial services support.

From a financial perspective, qualifying free zone entities benefit from a zero per cent corporate and personal income tax environment, which enhances the margins available to professional service providers. Full profit repatriation and the absence of currency restrictions further strengthen the commercial case for basing operations here.

The broader regulatory framework at Dubai South is aligned with the UAE's Vision 2031 economic diversification agenda, which places financial services and professional activities at the centre of long-term growth planning. For qualified professionals in account examination and certification, this creates a stable, well-regulated, and commercially rewarding operating environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an Examination of Accounts and Certification of Their Accuracy licence cost at Dubai South?

The total cost depends on the office package selected and the number of visas required. It typically includes a licence fee, registration fee, and workspace charges. Contact Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone directly for a tailored cost breakdown specific to your requirements.

Can a foreign national own 100 per cent of the licence?

Yes. Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone permits 100 per cent foreign ownership, meaning no local sponsor or partner is required.

Are any external regulatory approvals required for this activity?

In most cases, the free zone authority processes the application internally. However, depending on the scope of services and the professional qualifications involved, additional approvals from relevant UAE regulatory bodies may be required, which can extend the processing timeline.

How long does it take to obtain the licence?

Standard processing is typically completed within three to five working days once all documentation has been submitted. More complex cases involving external approvals may take longer.

What professional margins can be expected from this activity in the UAE?

The zero per cent corporate tax environment for qualifying free zone entities, combined with full profit repatriation rights, means that professional service margins are not eroded by local taxation. Specific margins depend on pricing strategy, client base, and operational costs.

Can the entity re-export services to clients outside the UAE?

Yes. Free zone entities in Dubai South can provide services to clients both within the UAE and internationally, subject to the terms of their licence and applicable cross-border regulations.

What facility requirements apply to this licence?

A registered address within Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is required. Flexi-desk arrangements are available for professionals who do not require a dedicated private office, making this an accessible option for sole practitioners and small teams.

Is annual renewal required?

Yes. The licence must be renewed annually. Renewal involves payment of the applicable fees and confirmation that all compliance obligations, including Ultimate Beneficial Owner registration, remain up to date.

Conclusion

An Examination of Accounts and Certification of Their Accuracy licence at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers qualified professionals a tax-efficient, strategically located base to serve the UAE's expanding demand for independent financial verification services. With 100 per cent foreign ownership, a streamlined setup process, and a supportive regulatory environment, the opportunity is well-suited to certified accountants, auditors, and financial consultants looking to grow in one of the world's most dynamic business destinations.

Contact Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone today to receive a tailored cost breakdown and begin your licence application for Activity Code 6920.03.

References and Citations

• Dubai South Free Zone Official Website

• UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies, UAE Government Portal

• UAE Ministry of Finance: Corporate Tax Information

• UAE Financial Intelligence Unit: Ultimate Beneficial Owner Regulations

• UAE Vision 2031 Economic Agenda

• United Nations International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC), Revision 4