TOP 10 ACCOUNTING COURSES IN UAE

Accounting courses in UAE fees span AED 400 for a 10-hour Manual / Basic Accounting for Corporates workshop up to AED 17 000 for a 5-day Professional Skills for Finance and Accounting programme, with durations running from 10 hours through 6–8 months in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain and Umm Al Quwain. This variation is mainly due to differences in course duration, content complexity, and certification level.

1. Low-Cost, Short Duration Courses (AED 400–1,000; 10–24 hours)

These courses are ideal for beginners or those seeking quick entry-level skills. For example, the Manual / Basic Accounting for Corporates course (10 hours, AED 400) covers fundamental topics like double-entry bookkeeping, trial balances, and basic financial statements. These programs usually offer flexible timing and basic KHDA-approved certificates.

2. Mid-Range Courses (AED 1,000–5,000; up to 50 hours)

Designed for learners who want to build practical skills in areas like bookkeeping, auditing, or secretarial accounting. For instance, the Certified Bookkeeping and Audit Knowledge course (8 hours) focuses on compliance, auditing techniques, and technology use. These courses provide more in-depth knowledge and improve employability with recognized certifications.

3. High-End, Long Duration Programs (AED 10,000–17,000+; 5 days to 6–8 months)

These are advanced diplomas or professional skills courses for career growth. For example, the Professional Skills for Finance and Accounting course (5 days, AED 17,000) covers complex topics such as forecasting, mergers, and corporate finance. The OTHM Level 5 & 7 Diplomas (80+ hours) offer UK-accredited qualifications, preparing students for middle to senior management roles with global recognition.

Accounting courses in the UAE can be as short as 10 hours or extend up to 6–8 months. Short programs run a few days or weeks, whereas diplomas and advanced qualifications take several months.

There are numerous short courses, from introductory to specialized topics as listed in the Table below:

The best accounting course for the UAE job market is the CA (Chartered Accountancy) qualification. Based on an analysis of numerous recent LinkedIn job postings in the UAE accounting sector, the majority list Chartered Accountancy as a key requirement or preferred certification for accounting roles across various experience levels. Alongside CA, a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance is generally required. Complementary skills in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel also enhance job prospects. For beginners, shorter courses and diplomas such as OTHM Level 5 or Level 7 can provide foundational knowledge before pursuing CA.

Regarding compensation, the average salary for a Chartered Accountant in the UAE varies based on experience and location. Entry-level CAs can expect to earn between AED 6,000 and AED 12,000 per month, while those with over 8 years of experience can earn up to AED 25,000 per month. In Dubai, the average salary for a CA is approximately AED 10,000 per month, reflecting the city's status as a major financial hub.

Also, find out about 'The 5 Best Accounting Qualifications for a Successful Career in the UAE (With Salary Insights)'

Yes, many short professional courses can be completed in under 3 months. Look for intensive workshops or certificate programs covering core accounting principles.

To work as an accountant in the UAE, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Professional certifications like CA (Chartered Accountancy), ACCA, CPA, CMA, or OTHM diplomas are highly valued and improve job prospects.

Entry-level accountants typically earn between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000 per month. With experience, salaries rise to AED 9,000–12,000 or more monthly, depending on the employer and expertise. Accounting managers can earn from AED 7,000 up to AED 22,000 per month or higher in senior roles.

Entry-level Accounting Managers in the UAE typically earn between AED 7,000 and AED 12,500 per month. The median salary stands around AED 12,300 per month, which may include additional pay such as bonuses or profit sharing. With increased experience and depending on the industry and emirate, salaries can rise significantly, reaching up to AED 22,000 or more per month, particularly in Dubai and other key financial hubs.

No, it’s never too late—30 is absolutely fine to switch or start a career in accounting. Many find their diverse work background an advantage in this field.

Introductory programs like “Manual / Basic Accounting” or “Basic Accounting” are typically the easiest. They cover core concepts such as double-entry bookkeeping, trial balances, and simple financial statements.

Renowned credentials (ACCA, CPA) or recognized diplomas (like OTHM) are highly regarded. The choice should match your career goals, whether international recognition or a locally focused certification.

Junior or entry-level roles can earn around AED 3,000–4,000 monthly. This can quickly increase with experience, certifications, and employment at larger or multinational firms.

With a few years of experience, accountants in the UAE typically earn between AED 4,000 and AED 8,000 per month, with a median salary of around AED 5,000 monthly in Dubai. Additional pay, including bonuses and commissions, can add approximately AED 483 per month on average.

Senior accountants with significant experience and specialized skills can earn upwards of AED 9,000 to AED 12,000 monthly or more, depending on the employer, industry, and location.

Yes. Many providers offer KHDA or ACTVET-approved certifications for recognition across the UAE.

Most short and diploma courses provide completion certificates; some are accredited (KHDA, ACTVET) or globally recognized (OTHM).

Not necessarily. Many introductory courses welcome beginners without prior experience in accounting.

Most entry- and mid-level postings list:

• Advanced Excel (VLOOKUP, PivotTables) and MS Office proficiency
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Hands-on experience with general ledger and accounts receivable/payable modules
• Knowledge of IFRS/IAS and local VAT regulations

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Commerce, Finance, or an Advanced Diploma in Accounting

• Some roles accept ACCA/CMA/CPA affiliates or finalists for slightly senior roles

• Processing invoices (vendor/customer) and managing payables/receivables

• Data entry and maintaining accurate accounting records

• Supporting month-end and year-end closings, including journal entries and reconciliations

• Assisting audits and inventory coordination

Yes, some firms (especially regional or international consultancies) offer remote, hybrid, or part-time accounting roles focused on AR/AP and bookkeeping. These typically require 3–5 years’ experience and strong self-management skills

What salary range can I expect in entry-level vs. mid-level accounting roles in the UAE?

• Salary ranges vary significantly across companies; for example, multinational firms like Chalhoub Group offer accountants AED 9,000–11,000/month, while others may offer lower ranges.

• Median pay for accountants in Dubai hovers around AED 5,000 per month, but can exceed AED 10,000 in large corporations such as The Emirates Group.

• Bonuses, commissions, and profit sharing often add around AED 483 monthly on average to total compensation.

• Senior accountants and specialists typically earn higher salaries, ranging from AED 9,000 up to AED 12,000 or more monthly depending on expertise and employer.

• Attention to detail and accuracy in data handling

• Analytical problem-solving (variance analysis, discrepancy resolution)

• Communication and teamwork, especially when coordinating across departments or with auditors