External Audit Services in UAE
External Audit : As a premier auditing firm in the UAE, SGA World provides comprehensive external audit services specifically designed to address the financial reporting, compliance, and regulatory requirements of businesses throughout Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the broader UAE.
Our audit processes strictly follow International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and International Standards on Auditing (ISA), guaranteeing complete transparency and instilling confidence among stakeholders, regulators, and investors.
Understanding External Audit Services in the UAE
An external audit involves an independent evaluation of a company's financial statements conducted by certified professionals. The primary objective is to offer an impartial opinion on the accuracy of financial records and their adherence to relevant accounting standards and regulations in the UAE. At SGA World, our auditors thoroughly scrutinize your accounting records, internal controls, and operational processes to produce objective and reliable audit reports that bolster your company’s financial integrity.
- Ensure compliance with UAE financial regulations and international accounting standards
- Enhance transparency and trust with investors, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
- Identify areas for improvement in internal controls and risk management systems
Why External Audits Matter for Your Business
External audits are essential for businesses in the UAE to maintain financial transparency, legal compliance, and investor confidence.
At Saif Chartered Accountants, our team of certified public accountants and public accountants follows internationally
accepted audit proceduresand standards to deliver reliable assurance services across industries.
How to Prepare for an External Audit?
SGA World facilitates a seamless audit preparation process by encouraging early planning, ensuring a smoother and more efficient audit experience.
- Reviewing and reconciling financial statements
- Ensuring all transactions are accurately documented
- Verifying tax compliance (VAT, Corporate Tax, Excise)
- roviding pre-audit checklists and guidance
External Audit
Services in UAE
Independent audits aligned with IFRS and UAE regulations. We serve Free Zones like DMCC, DAFZA, JAFZA, and mainland companies to ensure full financial transparency and compliance.
VAT Audit
& Return Filing
Expert VAT support for timely FTA filing, audit preparation, and penalty avoidance. We help UAE businesses maintain accurate records and meet all VAT compliance requirements.
Accounting
& Bookkeeping Services
Professional bookkeeping and accounting for small to large businesses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Stay compliant with real-time financial records and monthly reports.
Corporate Tax
Advisory UAE
Ensure corporate tax readiness with expert registration, assessment, and ongoing compliance support under the UAE Corporate Tax Law. Ideal for Free Zones and mainland entities.
How to Choose the Right
External Auditor in the UAE
When selecting an external auditor for your business, consider these key factors to ensure accuracy, compliance, and reliability:
Industry Expertise: Choose auditors experienced in your specific sector to understand unique financial and regulatory challenges.
Accreditation and Licensing: Verify the auditor’s professional certifications and licenses recognized by UAE authorities.
Approval by UAE Free Zones: Ensure the audit firm is approved by relevant Free Zones such as DMCC, DAFZA, JAFZA, and other regulatory bodies.
Transparent Methodology and Reporting: Opt for auditors who follow clear, internationally accepted auditing standards and provide detailed, easy-to-understand reports.
SGA World is a trusted external audit firm with official registration and approval across multiple UAE Free Zones and mainland jurisdictions, offering expert audit services tailored to your business needs.
External Audit Process
Planning & Risk Assessment
Fieldwork & Testing
Review & Reporting
Ongoing Support
Why Choose SGA World LLC?
At SGA World, we deliver reliable and compliant external audit services tailored for UAE companies, including bank-listed entities,
Free Zone businesses, and mainland organizations. Our certified auditors bring extensive experience helping you navigate complex regulations
while ensuring financial transparency and stakeholder confidence.
wide range of financial services in collaboration with other member firms throughout the world.
External Audit vs Internal Audit
What’s the Difference?
For companies in the UAE, understanding the difference between external and internal audits is essential for maintaining financial transparency, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. These audits serve unique but equally important roles in building business credibility and long-term sustainability.
An external audit involves an independent review of a company’s financial statements by a certified audit firm in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE. It ensures that your records are accurate and comply with international accounting standards such as IFRS—often a legal requirement in Free Zones and mainland entities. In contrast, an internal audit focuses on evaluating internal processes, risk controls, and overall operational performance. While not mandatory, internal audit services help businesses identify inefficiencies and improve governance from within.
Who Conducts the Audit?
External audits are performed by independent third-party firms like SGA World, ensuring unbiased financial reviews. Internal audits are done by in-house teams or outsourced specialists focusing on internal controls.
Audit Frequency
External audits are usually annual and required by UAE authorities, including DMCC and the FTA. Internal audits happen periodically—monthly, quarterly, or as needed based on business risks.
Is It Mandatory?
External audits are legally required for most UAE Free Zone and mainland companies. Internal audits are not mandatory but recommended to improve controls and reduce risks.
FAQ's - External Audit Services in the UAE
An external audit is an independent review of a company’s financial statements to ensure accuracy and compliance with international accounting standards like IFRS. In the UAE, it’s crucial for maintaining transparency, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder trust.
Yes, external audits are mandatory for most mainland companies and those registered in Free Zones like DMCC, DAFZA, and JAFZA. They are also required for license renewals and compliance with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
In the UAE, external audits are typically conducted annually and submitted to the respective licensing authority or Free Zone authority as part of regulatory compliance.
Look for audit firms that are registered with UAE Free Zones and government bodies, have industry-specific experience, and follow international standards. SGA World is approved across multiple zones and specializes in both SME and enterprise-level audits.
You’ll typically need your financial statements, bank statements, general ledger, invoices, VAT filings, and supporting documents for income and expenses. SGA World offers a checklist to streamline your audit preparation.
Depending on the size and complexity of your business, an external audit can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks. Early preparation ensures a faster, smoother audit process.