Audit Requirements in Free Zones vs. Mainland

Audit requirements in the UAE differ between free zones and the mainland. For mainland companies, it is mandatory to conduct a financial audit at the end of each fiscal year. However, in free zones, the audit requirements vary depending on the specific regulations of each free zone. Some free zones have mandatory audit requirements, while others do not require them. Companies registered in free zones and holding a free zone trade license are generally required to submit audited annual financial statements at the time of license renewal. The audit is typically conducted by an approved auditor or audit firm by the Free Zone authority. Failure to comply with the audit requirements can result in penalties, fines, or even the suspension or cancellation of the company’s trade license. Therefore, companies need to understand the specific audit requirements of the free zone in which they are operating to ensure compliance and avoid any potential outcomes.

Audit Requirements in Free Zones UAE

An audit in a free zone in the UAE is a review and examination of a company’s financial statements and records. The audit is typically conducted by an approved auditor or audit firm by the Free Zone authority under its regulations and ensures compliance. Companies in the free zone can choose their financial year as per their requirement. But that chosen financial year should commence from the date of incorporation and must not be less than 12 months.

It is mandatory for all the businesses registered under free zones to conduct an annual audit and submit the audited financial statements within the stipulated time frame. Failure to comply with the audit requirements can result in penalties or fines imposed by the Free Zone authority and even the suspension or cancellation of the company’s trade license.

Audit Process for Companies in Free Zones

The audit process for companies in free zones involves the following steps:

• Engage an approved auditor or audit firm by the Free Zone authority.
• The auditor will review and examine the company’s financial records and statements.
• The auditor will prepare an audit report and submit it to the Free Zone authority.
• The company must upload the auditor’s signed and stamped Audited Financial Statements Summary Sheet to the Free Zone authority.
• Upon acceptance of the audit report and financial statements, the Free Zone authority issues a certificate of compliance to the company.

Penalty for Failure to Submit Audit in UAE Free Zones

In some free zones in the UAE, companies that fail to submit audited financial reports may be subject to a penalty. The penalty for not submitting audit statements in UAE Free Zones can vary depending on the specific free zone authority and the extent of non-compliance. The Free Zone fines in the UAE may vary from 2500 AED to 5000 AED based on the specific free zone. Additionally, failure to submit an audit report may lead to a registered business being penalized with a heavy fine. Companies need to comply with the audit requirements to avoid these fines and penalties, as well as the potential suspension or cancellation of the company’s trade license. 

Audit Requirements in Mainland in UAE

In the UAE, the audit requirements for companies in the mainland are primarily influenced by their legal structure, size, and business activities. While not all companies are required to be audited, specific regulations and criteria determine whether an audit is mandatory. 

According to the Commercial Companies Federal Law, No.32 of 2021, all companies operating in the mainland UAE are obligated to undergo a comprehensive audit of their financial accounts. The law reinforces the commitment to financial transparency and accountability for businesses in the UAE. The mandatory auditing requirements for mainland companies, coupled with the retention of financial records, set a standard for financial integrity. However, for companies in the free zone, the requirement for audit may vary, and companies need to maintain their accounting reports and documents to ensure compliance with the applicable regulation. 

Submission of Audited Financial Statements

Mainland companies in the UAE are mandated to submit audited financial statements within the stipulated time frame to comply with the legal requirements. Failure to comply with the audit requirements can result in penalties or fines imposed by the authorities. Companies need to ensure compliance with the audit requirements to avoid any potential penalties or fines.

BRISK Assistance in Audits

BRISK offers comprehensive assistance in audits within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and provides a range of services, including:

• Financial Audits
• Internal Audits
• Tax Audits
• Compliance Audits
• Operational Audits
• Information Technology (IT) Audits
• Statutory Audits