38 External Audit jobs in the United Arab Emirates

Manager - External Audit (Financial Services)

Job description

As an External Audit Manager, your responsibilities will include supporting senior colleagues, organising & reviewing work, overseeing and providing training/guidance to a team of Senior Associates & Associates and being a key client contact.

As an External Audit Manager some of your responsibilities will include:

• Working strategically with the leadership team
• Taking responsibility for staff planning, reviewing work and overseeing the team
• Taking the lead on dealing with large, technically complex clients
• Supporting the Audit Partner in the running of the team
• Negotiating client fees per engagement as appropriate
• Involved in the interview process for new hires joining the team

These are the key skills which we're hoping you can tick:

• 2+ years of External Audit Manager experience in a top international firm in the UAE
• 6+ years of External Audit experience in a top international firm (preferably in the UAE)
• Professionally qualified (ACA, CPA, ACCA)
• Strong experience auditing Financial Services institutions, particularly Asset Managers and Brokerage Firms
• Confident in IFRS, internal controls, and consolidation of financial statements
• Experience working on complex audits and delegating workloads accordingly
• Comfortable using audit software and Microsoft packages
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
• Strong communication, leadership, analytical skills required
• Willingness to work additional hours as needed

The ideal candidate must already be based here in the UAE and should be currently working as a Manager in an Auditing Firm.

Join to apply for the Director - External Audit role at Grant Thornton - UAE

Grant Thornton UAE is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd, one of the world’s leading organizations of independent assurance, tax, and advisory firms.

With over 76,000 professionals in more than 150 countries, we combine global scale with local expertise to help dynamic organizations unlock their potential for growth.

Our collaborative approach, deep industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence ensure that we deliver tailored solutions to meet our clients' unique needs.

As a Director, your responsibilities will include supporting senior colleagues in preparing audit strategy, managing a portfolio, organizing & reviewing work, overseeing a team of Managers & Associates, and being a key client contact. You will also showcase eagerness to delve into Business Development, lead with expertise, drive strategic initiatives, and foster innovation to exceed client expectations and elevate industry standards.

About the Audit & Assurance at Grant Thornton UAE

Where precision meets passion! Our Audit and Assurance services cater to a diverse range of companies, ensuring financial clarity and confidence at every turn. Our clientele spans diverse industries and all sizes from SMEs to International Groups and listed companies. We are proud to be market leaders in areas such as Financial Services and PCAOB engagements, and have led the first Middle East unicorn listing on NASDAQ.

Key responsibilities for a Director include:

• Working strategically with the leadership team to drive business growth
• Developing a high-profile market presence within the Public Sector and promoting Grant Thornton’s brand
• Working towards RI status and signing off on audits
• Managing the day-to-day operations of the team and portfolio on behalf of the Partner
• Developing a strong internal and external network to support business development
• Managing a key client portfolio and maintaining good relationships with colleagues and clients
• Leading dealings with Public Sector Clients
• Negotiating client fees per engagement as appropriate

Think you've got what it takes to be a Director? Here are some qualifications and qualities we’re looking for:

• 11+ years of External Audit experience in a top international firm
• Professional qualification (ACA, CPA, ACCA)
• Extensive post-qualification audit experience with a diverse range of businesses
• Confidence in IFRS, internal controls, and financial statement consolidation
• A strong network of Public Sector clients in the UAE
• A passion for business development and strategic team development
• Significant leadership experience in audit practice
• Experience in large audits, complex groups, and technical matters
• Strong knowledge of compliance and regulation
• Proven ability to inspire and develop team members

Additional details:

Seniority level: Not Applicable

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Accounting / Auditing and Finance

Industries: Accounting

When you work for us, you commit to a career at one of the largest and most prestigious professional services firms in the world. We have received numerous awards over the last few years, including Best Employer in the Middle East, Best Consulting Firm, and the Middle East Training & Development Excellence Award.

Deloitte makes an impact that matters. Every day we challenge ourselves to do what matters most—for clients, for our people, and for society. We serve clients distinctively, bringing innovative insights, solving complex challenges, and unlocking sustainable growth. We inspire our talented professionals to deliver outstanding value to clients, providing an exceptional career experience and an inclusive and collaborative culture. We contribute to society, building confidence and trust in the markets, upholding the integrity of organizations, and supporting our communities.

• Lead the way.
• Serve with integrity.
• Take care of each other.
• Foster inclusion.
• Collaborate for measurable impact.

During your tenure as an Audit Manager in Audit & Assurance, you will demonstrate and develop your capabilities in the following areas:

• Takes responsibility for understanding key statistics and industry matters about the entity before engagement begins, for example, by asking other team members and reading the prior year financial statements (including the enhanced audit report) or audit documentation.
• Understands allocation of responsibilities between the engagement team and experts or specialists, including timescales and how the work of experts and specialists will contribute to the objectives of the audit.
• Coordinates with management and experts/specialists for the key engagement or project deliverables and due dates. Tracks findings of work performed and follows up the impact of work to be performed by other members of the engagement team.
• Applies guidance material in relevant guides, practice aids, and tools so that an appropriate level of professional skepticism is reflected in procedures performed, evidence obtained, and conclusions reached.
• Signs off appropriately on work performed and reviewed. Takes responsibility for meaningful completion of all necessary checklists, procedures, and tailoring and concluding questions prior to signing off. Proactively checks whether others have signed off appropriately and follows up where necessary.
• Contributes to the development of a comprehensive project plan, using prior year knowledge to help identify audit priorities that can be performed earlier in the audit cycle. Seeks awareness of contingency plans if the entity's management team fails to meet their deadlines.
• Prepares and reviews documentation by anticipating questions that reviewers may ask, including not just the conclusion but the relevant facts, analysis, reference to authoritative literature, and professional judgments made in reaching it.
• Encourages the wider team to adopt an attitude of professional skepticism, to have a questioning mindset and to further investigate as and when appropriate. Can identify the key questions to be answered.
• Documents objectivity, independence, and continuance decisions, checking that sufficient enquiries have been made and that all information has been captured.
• Checks that staff on the engagement have adequate technical knowledge, including industry knowledge, for the areas in which they are working. Provides briefings as required.

• Builds own understanding of our purpose and values; explores opportunities for impact.
• Demonstrates strong commitment to personal learning and development; acts as a brand ambassador to help attract top talent.
• Understands expectations and demonstrates personal accountability for keeping performance on track.
• Actively focuses on developing effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Understands how their daily work contributes to the priorities of the team and the business.

• 6+ years of experience in auditing, with leading professional services firms or large multinational organizations and systems.
• Degree in Business, Accounting, or related field.
• Experience in handling real estate client portfolio.
• Successful record of engagement management.
• Fluent in English (reading, speaking, and writing). Arabic is a plus.
• CPA, CA, or equivalent.

Join to apply for the Manager - External Audit (All industries) role at Grant Thornton - UAE.

Grant Thornton UAE is a member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd, a leading organization of independent assurance, tax, and advisory firms worldwide.

With over 76,000 professionals across more than 150 countries, we combine global expertise with local knowledge to help organizations unlock their growth potential.

As a Manager, your responsibilities will include supporting senior colleagues in preparing audit strategies, managing portfolios, organizing and reviewing work, overseeing a team of Senior Associates & Associates, and serving as a key client contact. You will also have opportunities to lead business development, drive strategic initiatives, and foster innovation to surpass client expectations and raise industry standards.

Imagine being part of a team that values collaboration, flexibility, and authenticity. Whether leading client discussions or scaling heights like the Burj Khalifa or Jebel Jais, bring your true self to work. Join us in shaping a world based on trust and integrity, where businesses and communities thrive.

Join us to expand your horizons, face challenges, and be yourself.

Our services ensure financial clarity across diverse industries and company sizes, from SMEs to international groups. We are market leaders in Financial Services and PCAOB engagements and led the first Middle East unicorn listing on NASDAQ.

• Leading audit reviews, setting timetables, briefing teams, and monitoring budgets.
• Ensuring work is completed profitably, timely, and to professional standards.
• Managing, motivating, and coaching team members with regular feedback.
• Managing a diverse client portfolio across industries and markets.
• Assisting in establishing audit objectives and scope with the Audit Partner.
• Planning and coordinating all audit planning aspects, including resourcing.
• Reviewing audit work papers and ensuring timely completion of files.
• Finalizing draft reports for management.

• Seniority level: Not Applicable
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
• Industries: Accounting

When you work for us, you commit to a career at one of the largest and most prestigious professional services firms in the world. We have received numerous awards over the last few years, including Best Employer in the Middle East, Best Consulting Firm, and the Middle East Training & Development Excellence Award.

Deloitte makes an impact that matters. Every day we challenge ourselves to do what matters most—for clients, for our people, and for society. We serve clients distinctively, bringing innovative insights, solving complex challenges, and unlocking sustainable growth. We inspire our talented professionals to deliver outstanding value to clients, providing an exceptional career experience and an inclusive and collaborative culture. We contribute to society, building confidence and trust in the markets, upholding the integrity of organizations, and supporting our communities.

Our shared values guide the way we behave to make a positive, enduring impact:

• Lead the way
• Serve with integrity
• Take care of each other
• Foster inclusion

During your tenure as an Assistant Manager in Audit & Assurance, you will demonstrate and develop your capabilities in the following areas:

• Takes responsibility for understanding key statistics and industry matters about the entity before engagement begins, for example, by asking other team members and reading the prior year financial statements (including the enhanced audit report) or audit documentation.
• Understands allocation of responsibilities between the engagement team and experts or specialists, including timescales and how the work of experts and specialists will contribute to the objectives of the audit.
• Coordinates with management and experts/specialists for the key engagement or project deliverables and due dates. Tracks findings of work performed and follows up the impact of work to be performed by other members of the engagement team.
• Applies guidance material in relevant guides, practice aids, and tools so that an appropriate level of professional skepticism is reflected in procedures performed, evidence obtained, and conclusions reached.
• Signs off appropriately on work performed and reviewed. Takes responsibility for meaningful completion of all necessary checklists, procedures, and tailoring and concluding questions prior to signing off. Proactively checks whether others have signed off appropriately and follows up where necessary.
• Contributes to the development of a comprehensive project plan, using prior year knowledge to help identify audit priorities that can be performed earlier in the audit cycle. Seeks awareness of contingency plans if the entity's management team fails to meet their deadlines.
• Prepares and reviews documentation by anticipating questions that reviewers may ask, including not just the conclusion but the relevant facts, analysis, reference to authoritative literature, and professional judgments made in reaching it.
• Encourages the wider team to adopt an attitude of professional skepticism, to have a questioning mindset and to further investigate as and when appropriate. Is able to identify the key questions to be answered.
• Documents objectivity, independence, and continuance decisions, checking that sufficient enquiries have been made and that all information has been captured.
• Checks that staff on the engagement have adequate technical knowledge, including industry knowledge, for the areas in which they are working. Provides briefings as required.

• Builds own understanding of our purpose and values; explores opportunities for impact.
• Demonstrates strong commitment to personal learning and development; acts as a brand ambassador to help attract top talent.
• Understands expectations and demonstrates personal accountability for keeping performance on track.
• Actively focuses on developing effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Understands how their daily work contributes to the priorities of the team and the business.

• 6+ years of experience in auditing, with leading professional services firms or large multinational organizations and systems.
• Degree in Business, Accounting, or related field.
• Successful record of engagement management.
• Fluent in English (reading, speaking, and writing). Arabic is a plus.
• CPA, CA, or equivalent.

The job profile for this position is Financial Audit Analyst, which is a Band 2 Senior Contributor Career Track Role.

Excited to grow your career?

We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Our people make all the difference in our success.

Job Title: Senior Internal Auditor/Financial Audit Analyst

Reports To: Head of Internal Audit, Middle East & Africa
Location: UAE
Function: Internal Audit

Overview

This is a unique opportunity to be part of Cigna’s Internal Audit team in the Middle East & Africa—supporting a business that is expanding rapidly while navigating a complex and regulated environment. Working alongside a highly experienced team, the Senior Auditor will gain cross-functional exposure, engage with senior stakeholders, and play a critical role in ensuring a strong internal control and risk management environment across the region.

Role Purpose

The Senior Internal Auditor will support the delivery of high-quality audits by performing audit fieldwork, analyzing key processes, providing assurance over the effectiveness of controls, and identifying control gaps, as applicable. This role is ideal for professionals looking to deepen their understanding of risk and governance within a leading global insurer while ensuring strong control frameworks in a high-growth region.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute audits across various functions and geographies in line with the approved audit plan.
• Conduct process walkthroughs, test internal controls, and evaluate operational efficiency and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Prepare clear, well-documented workpapers and assist in drafting audit reports with practical, risk-based recommendations.
• Support Audit Leads and Managers in risk assessments, audit planning, and reporting to stakeholders.
• Maintain an understanding of regional business models, emerging risks, and regulatory expectations.
• Track remediation of audit issues and perform follow-up testing as needed.
• Collaborate with colleagues globally to share insights, data, and leading practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional certification (e.g., CIA, CPA, CA, ACCA) is required.
• 3–5 years of audit or risk management experience, preferably within the insurance or financial services sector.
• Familiarity with UAE regulations, control frameworks, and financial reporting standards.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication in English; Arabic proficiency is a plus.
• Team-oriented with a proactive and collaborative mindset.
• Integrity, professionalism, and the ability to manage sensitive information.
• Ability to travel up to 25% within the MEA region.

Please note that you must meet our posting guidelines to be eligible for consideration. Policy can be reviewed at this link .

The job profile for this position is Financial Audit Analyst, which is a Band 2 Senior Contributor Career Track Role.

Excited to grow your career?

We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Our people make all the difference in our success.

Job Title: Senior Internal Auditor/Financial Audit Analyst

Reports To:Head of Internal Audit, Middle East & Africa
Location:UAE
Function:Internal Audit

Overview

This is a unique opportunity to be part of Cigna’s Internal Audit team in the Middle East & Africa—supporting a business that is expanding rapidly while navigating a complex and regulated environment. Working alongside a highly experienced team, the Senior Auditor will gain cross-functional exposure, engage with senior stakeholders, and play a critical role in ensuring a strong internal control and risk management environment across the region.

Role Purpose

The Senior Internal Auditor will support the delivery of high-quality audits by performing audit fieldwork, analyzing key processes, providing assurance over the effectiveness of controls, and identifying control gaps, as applicable. This role is ideal for professionals looking to deepen their understanding of risk and governance within a leading global insurer while ensuring strong control frameworks in a high-growth region.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute audits across various functions and geographies in line with the approved audit plan.
• Conduct process walkthroughs, test internal controls, and evaluate operational efficiency and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Prepare clear, well-documented workpapers and assist in drafting audit reports with practical, risk-based recommendations.
• Support Audit Leads and Managers in risk assessments, audit planning, and reporting to stakeholders.
• Maintain an understanding of regional business models, emerging risks, and regulatory expectations.
• Track remediation of audit issues and perform follow-up testing as needed.
• Collaborate with colleagues globally to share insights, data, and leading practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional certification (e.g., CIA, CPA, CA, ACCA) is required.
• 3–5 years of audit or risk management experience, preferably within the insurance or financial services sector.
• Familiarity with UAE regulations, control frameworks, and financial reporting standards.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication in English; Arabic proficiency is a plus.
• Team-oriented with a proactive and collaborative mindset.
• Integrity, professionalism, and the ability to manage sensitive information.
• Ability to travel up to 25% within the MEA region.

Please note that you must meet our posting guidelines to be eligible for consideration. Policy can be reviewed at this link.

Financial Audit Specialist

We are seeking a skilled Financial Audit Specialist to perform specific audit tasks in line with the audit methodology and guidelines provided by the audit supervisor. Tasks include analyzing data, reviewing the current state, generating draft reports, conducting research, and collecting information. Develop professional expertise through on-the-job assignments and formal training.

• Develop an understanding of financial statement audits, systems, processes, and procedures to ensure readiness for audit activities according to international standards.
• Contribute to the execution of the financial statement audit plan by performing audit activities within own expertise, timely and with quality.
• Participate in projects related to own area of responsibility, assigned by more experienced role holders.
• Provide assistance and support during audits as needed.

A bachelor's degree in finance, business, or accounting is required. Additionally, relevant experience of 0-2 years is preferred.

• Job Category: Audit
• Education Level: Bachelor
• Nationality: UAE Only
• Schedule: Full-time