Why is the role of CFOs changing in UAE?

The role is shifting from compliance-focused to strategy-driven, helping businesses adapt to market changes and drive growth.

How do CFOs support CEOs today?

CFOs act as strategic partners, providing data-driven insights, setting goals, and guiding corporate strategies.

What tools do CFOs use for decision-making?

They use dashboards, analytics, planning processes, and performance targets to align operations with strategy.

Can SMEs in UAE benefit from CFO services?

Yes, SMEs gain financial discipline, accurate reporting, and improved growth strategies from CFO services.

Why consult Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing for CFO services?

They provide expert CFO services that ensure compliance, improve financial management, and support strategic decision-making.

Changing Role of CFOs UAE 🥇 | MAK Auditing

Introduction to CFO Role in UAE

The changing role of Chief Financial Officers in UAE is transforming businesses. Today, CFOs are more than just finance heads—they’re strategy leaders. With a holistic view of the organization, modern CFOs help create value, manage risks, and drive long-term success.

Traditionally, CFOs only focused on compliance and reporting. Now, they’re responsible for guiding corporate vision, influencing growth decisions, and supporting CEOs as strategic partners. Companies in UAE often turn to Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing for expert CFO services that align finance with future goals.

CFOs as Strategic Partners to CEOs

CFOs now serve as trusted advisors to CEOs. Their role includes:

Setting corporate goals and aligning financial strategies.
Providing accurate data to shape decisions.
Leading in negotiations with suppliers and stakeholders.
Managing investor relations and building market trust.

As members of the board, CFOs help design financial policies, strengthen governance, and ensure transparency across the company.

Key Duties of a CFO

The core responsibilities of CFOs in UAE include:

Managing company cash flow and ensuring liquidity.
Overseeing accounting and financial reporting.
Analyzing strengths and weaknesses in finances.
Proposing corrective measures to overcome risks.
Designing investment and capital structure plans.

In short, a CFO acts as both custodian of numbers and architect of future growth.

Tools Used by Modern CFOs

To succeed in their roles, CFOs use advanced tools and processes:

Dashboards for real-time financial data.
Performance targets to guide departments.
Planning processes to align operations with strategy.
Review calendars to monitor execution.
Stakeholder engagement to build credibility.

These tools allow CFOs to stay ahead of market shifts and guide sustainable business growth.

Shifting CFO Responsibilities

The responsibilities of CFOs are expanding rapidly in UAE. Their changing role includes:

Acting as strategic partners across the business.
Closing books quickly and reporting accurate data.
Delivering analytics to support executive decisions.
Standardizing financial processes across functions.
Enforcing discipline in operations and back-office units.
Ensuring compliance with UAE financial regulations.
Adapting finance systems during mergers or divestitures.
Building financial literacy among non-financial managers.

Importance of CFO in UAE Business Landscape

CFOs play an important role in shaping strategy, managing risk, and enabling value creation. Their contributions help:

Drive investor confidence.
Support digital transformation in finance.
Manage growth opportunities in competitive sectors.
Strengthen compliance with UAE laws and IFRS standards.

By aligning vision with numbers, CFOs guide companies towards long-term resilience.

Why Choose Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing?

For UAE companies seeking strong CFO services, Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing provides unmatched expertise. Their services include:

CFO services for startups and corporates.
Auditing & assurance tailored to UAE laws.
VAT & corporate tax consultancy.
Accounting & bookkeeping for SMEs.
Due diligence and financial advisory.

Their experienced professionals have worked across multiple industries, offering strategic insights that help clients achieve business success.

🥇 What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing

CFOs in UAE are no longer just number keepers; they’re strategy builders. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing offers CFO services that provide accurate data, valuable insights, and strong compliance. Remember, the early bird catches the worm—taking proactive steps today ensures financial success tomorrow.

For more information visit our office:

📍 Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
📞 Contact/WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132

FAQs Changing Role of CFOs UAE MAK Auditing

Do individuals pay corporate tax on salary?

No. Salary stays outside CT. A person pays CT only on business income when the person runs a licensed business and crosses the turnover threshold.

Can a free zone company sell to the mainland and keep 0%?

It depends on the activity, the role in the supply chain, and the de-minimis rules. Non-qualifying mainland income generally faces 9%.

Do small firms need audited accounts?

Some firms may use IFRS for SMEs, but certain categories, including many free zone persons seeking QFZP status or entities above revenue thresholds, need audited statements.

What records must a taxpayer keep?

Keep ledgers, invoices, contracts, bank statements, TP files, and working papers for the statutory period. Keep scans and hard copies when needed.

When is the CT return due?

The return and payment are due within nine months after the end of the tax period. Add the date to your calendar with early reminders.