Gulf countries are great for Indian accounting professionals because of their strong economies, social security benefits, and closeness to India. This means Indians usually don’t need extra courses to work there. However, candidates must have gulf accounting jobs skills to get a better job.
Essential Skills for Gulf Accounting Jobs
Big companies care more about what you can do than where you’re from. They like it when you have good:
- Communication skills,
- Computer skills, and
- Fit well with their way of doing things.
Computers are used for many things, like buying and selling things and doing taxes. Being good with computers can make a big difference in your job.
Smaller companies often use simple programs like Microsoft Excel because they’re cheaper. Being good with Excel, like knowing how to use formulas, connect sheets, and make things look nice, can help you a lot in your career.
Knowing how to use advanced software is essential at higher levels. Different companies use different software, but knowing popular ones can significantly help.
Software like Tally, QuickBooks Pro, ERP systems, and Sage are commonly used in Gulf countries. While knowing the basics of Gulf accounting jobs skills might be okay for some jobs, having practical experience with these systems can make you stand out. These software programs enhance your chances of getting hired by top companies. Also, having knowledge of Microsoft PowerPoint for creating presentations and Microsoft Word for writing reports can be helpful in your work.
People often wonder when they should start learning these Gulf Accounting Jobs skills—during university, after post-graduation, or while working. The answer is simple: These skills take time, so the best start is now. Developing your skills, especially soft skills, is essential for planning your career path.
Qualifications Needed
Many Indians like working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, candidates need to meet specific criteria for Gulf accounting job qualifications.
Accounting
Having qualifications such as a diploma in business-related fields like Economics and Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, Finance, or Business Management is important to become an accountant. These are the basic qualifications needed.
After finishing university, get some work experience. Other than these, having some certifications also helps you to get a good impression among the recruiters. Employers often prefer candidates with certifications like CPA, CFA, or ACCA. One of these qualifications can improve your chances of getting a good job.
You must pass the Uniform CPA exam to work as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and represent the UAE public. Many companies ask for this when hiring. People take this exam because it boosts their job chances in the Gulf and worldwide. Being a CPA is well-known and gets you better-paying jobs.
The requirements for getting a CPA license can vary depending on the state. After getting licensed, CPAs need to take professional education courses every year to keep their license valid.
With these qualifications and some Gulf accounting job skills, finding a job should be easy. But it’s important to research to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
Auditing
To become an auditor in the UAE, one should have an audit license or any other accounting qualification. Experience in finance or auditing is also necessary.
To become an internal auditor, you must pass the CIA exam. While you can still work as an external auditor without it, having the certification offers more job options and better pay. It’s also recognized worldwide so that you can work abroad, too.
To take the CIA exam, you need at least an associate degree. If you don’t have this, you can still apply if you have seven years of experience in internal auditing or a similar field. You also need a good reputation confirmed by a supervisor. Then, you have three years to pass all three parts of the CIA exam.
After that, you must keep up with Continuing Professional Education (CPE) and meet the experience requirement, which varies based on your education level.
Tips for Getting Jobs
Gain Experience
Start at a local audit firm with branches abroad to land a good job. After gaining some experience there, you can work overseas for a while. Talk to experienced colleagues for advice, and do your research to make sure it’s the right move for you.
When you’re ready to ask for an overseas assignment, highlight your skills and experience. If the company needs someone for a job abroad, you or a senior colleague can suggest your name.
But you’ll need to find your way if there’s no opportunity at your current job. Many people from India go to Gulf countries on a visit visa to look for work. If you find a job you like, you can turn your visit visa into a long-term one. However, getting started in a new country can be challenging. Most entry-level jobs there are in accounting.
Strategies for Job Search
After settling into an initial job, people start looking for better ones. The best place to find them is often on the company’s website. Both big and small firms sometimes post job openings on LinkedIn, too. It’s a good idea to keep updating your profile and CV. So you’re ready to apply whenever a job opens up at a major firm.
Jobs at audit firms are usually short-term, like for 3 to 6 months. They might get extended if you’re doing well. With the pandemic, there’s a unique chance to work from home. This could be a great time to find a job. It gives you experience and lets you adjust to the culture of your new country.
Enrolling in Courses
Joining a Gulf accounting course can help you achieve your career goal and learn more about how to get the highest-paying jobs in the Gulf countries. At Finprov, we’re dedicated to empowering graduates and professionals in accounting and finance with top-notch education and career prospects. Our Gulf accounting course provides comprehensive training on various VAT concepts, ensuring you gain practical knowledge.
Our Gulf accounting course covers Practical accounting, Tally Prime, UAE VAT, Corporate tax, etc. By enrolling in our accounting professional course, you’ll develop the skills to excel in the accounting industry or grow your business. We also offer placement assistance to help you reach your career goals.
