Bookkeeping in Dubai

When you need an accountant in Dubai

Bookkeeping in the UAE used to be a formality — not anymore. With the introduction of corporate tax, proper accounting has become mandatory. You need an accountant for: 9% corporate tax, 5% VAT, maintaining records for licence renewal, and structuring within a free zone.

Price reference: bookkeeping for a small business — AED 1,000–3,000/mo, one-off consultation — AED 500–1,500. Initial consultation with SVOY accountants — free.

What matters specifically for Russian speakers from the CIS

• Income from clients in Russia/CIS. The UAE is well-suited for receiving international payments; an accountant will set up invoices and bookkeeping in line with the new corporate tax rules.
• How to bring money in. USDT and third countries are the norm; international transfers are used to legitimize incoming funds.
• Zero income tax, but with nuances. There is no personal income tax, but if you remain a tax resident of another country, obligations may apply there; an accountant can help you obtain UAE tax residency (TRC certificate).
• CIS documents. For a license or visa — legalization and translation of documents, remotely.

UAE taxes: what has changed

• no personal income tax — the UAE’s key advantage;
• since June 2023 — a 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 (below the threshold — 0%);
• free zone: 0% on qualifying income when conditions are met (substance, audit);
• VAT 5% — registration is mandatory once turnover exceeds AED 375,000 (voluntary from 187,500).

Accounting, audit, and reporting

• bookkeeping and document retention are now mandatory (Federal Tax Authority requirement);
• many free zones require an annual audit to renew the license;
• Economic Substance (ESR) and the UBO beneficial-ownership register — mandatory reporting obligations;
• registering for corporate tax in the EmaraTax system.

Free zone or mainland

• free zone — 0% if qualifying, but with substance requirements and an audit;
• mainland — access to the local market, but 9% on profits above the threshold;
• an accountant will calculate which option is more advantageous for your business model.

How to choose an accountant

• hire a specialist who is up to date on the new corporate tax and free zone rules;
• check audit requirements for your zone;
• a Russian-speaking accountant will set up bookkeeping, VAT, and reporting more precisely.

Looking for an accountant in Dubai? Describe your situation — we’ll answer your questions for free, and a specialist will personally review your case.