Dubai Finance and PwC Academy Forge Strategic Partnership to Launch New Tax Professional Certification
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: Dubai Finance (DOF) and PwC Academy, the talent and skills development arm of PwC Middle East, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce a new certification aimed at tax professionals working within Dubai government entities. This partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing tax knowledge and expertise within the UAE.
The MoU was signed by Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, DOF’s Director-General, and Samar Sayegh, PwC Partner and PwC Academy Middle East Leader, in a move that aligns with the UAE’s growing focus on creating a robust and efficient tax system. The new Tax Professional Certificate is designed for individuals involved in tax-related roles in Dubai government departments and will equip them with essential expertise in UAE taxation, particularly in Value Added Tax (VAT) and Corporate Tax.
The certification will be awarded to individuals enrolled in a specialized training programme that covers key modules on UAE VAT and Corporate Tax. The courses will be available in both Arabic and English to ensure accessibility for a wide range of participants. Additionally, participants will receive two tax diplomas from the UK’s Association of Tax Technicians (ATT-UK), further enhancing the programme’s credibility and international standards.
Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh expressed, “The tax system in the UAE is based on the best international practices and foundations, considering the country’s unique financial and business sectors. DOF plays a pivotal role in fostering and developing this ecosystem, ensuring a balance between public interest and private sector needs. This balance is critical to ensuring the growth and prosperity of both sectors.”
Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla, Commissioner for Tax Affairs in the Government of Dubai, highlighted the importance of tax revenues in developing the country’s economic sectors. He stated, “DOF has introduced this tax certificate in line with the government’s training needs, encompassing all relevant tax knowledge related to VAT and corporate tax in the UAE. Delivered by PwC Academy, the programme aims to enhance work efficiency and improve outcomes within the UAE’s advanced tax system.”
Samar Sayegh, PwC Partner and PwC Academy Middle East Leader, emphasized the collaboration’s significance in empowering UAE nationals with the skills required to navigate the evolving regulatory environment. “This programme will equip professionals with a deep understanding of global standards and regional regulations, fostering advanced knowledge and practical skills that will contribute to the UAE’s economic transformation and support its vision for sustainable growth,” she said.
Amna Salem Al Jabri, Director of the Financial Studies Division at DOF, added that the certification programme is a pioneering initiative, not only in the UAE but in the Arab world. She noted, “Achieving this professional tax certificate requires passing a comprehensive final exam administered by the PwC Academy, ensuring that Dubai government employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in tax affairs.”
The training programme spans 18 days, totaling 108 hours, and is designed to provide comprehensive, practical training to professionals in Dubai’s public sector. The collaboration between Dubai Finance and PwC Academy marks a key milestone in the UAE’s efforts to build a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s continued economic growth and development.
