The Professional Compliance Committee for Accounting and Auditing has revealed the outcomes of its activities from its inception in July 2024 until August 2025. During this period, the committee conducted 24 meetings, where it examined 23 referrals related to professional violations.
The committee issued 20 disciplinary decisions, ranging from warnings and fines to suspensions for several accounting offices and certified accountants authorized by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. Financial penalties totaled 2.5 million dirhams, and seven cases were suspended from practice.
As of the end of August 2025, the committee noted a significant increase in the number of licensed accountants in the country, reaching 1,103 compared to 871 in 2024, while the number of accounting firms rose to 396.
These results reflect the committee’s efforts to enhance oversight and professional governance in the accounting sector, aligning with global best practices aimed at promoting transparency and safeguarding the interests of investors and stakeholders. This initiative underscores the commitment of the state to establishing a reliable and competitive business environment.
The Professional Compliance Committee for Accounting and Auditing was formed following a decision by the Minister of Economy and Tourism, in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2023, which regulates the accounting and auditing profession.
The committee is chaired by Abdullah Saleh Al Hamadi, Director of the Audit Department at the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, and comprises representatives from the Ministry of Finance and the Dubai Economic Security Centre. Its primary responsibility is to investigate professional violations and impose disciplinary sanctions on offenders, which may include warnings, fines, suspensions, or even revocation of their licenses.
These efforts are part of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism’s plans to enhance the efficiency of the profession and improve its regulatory framework, ensuring conformity with international standards and bolstering the UAE’s position as a prominent regional and global economic and financial hub.
Abdullah Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, emphasized the UAE’s strong commitment to developing a robust framework for the accounting and auditing profession, in line with best practices.
He noted that the Professional Compliance Committee represents a vital regulatory tool established by Federal Decree-Law No. (41) of 2023, which governs the accounting and auditing profession.
The committee’s positive outcomes signify a renewed commitment to implementing governance and integrity standards in this profession, contributing to a growth-conducive environment which enhances the competitiveness of the national economy.
The committee identified several professional violations, including issuing reports without supporting documentation, conflict of interest, inadequate documentation, signing off on non-compliant statements, and failing to assess companies’ sustainability.
Other violations included failing to disclose material matters and falsifying information. These findings reflect the ministry’s responsiveness to reports and complaints it received, which were addressed in accordance with legal regulations, leading to systematic and transparent disciplinary decisions against violators.
Abdullah Saleh Al Hamadi explained the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency in carrying out tasks and avoiding misrepresentation by accountants regarding work they have not performed. Compliance with relevant economic legislation is essential as part of corporate governance within accounting offices.
The committee emphasizes that accountants should not accept or continue assignments with clients who violate established rules. It warns against actions that might distort the truth or misrepresent financial data, which could harm others or lead to unjust gains at the expense of others’ rights.