In Dubai, businesses are subject to specific legal obligations regarding accounting practices. These obligations are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with financial regulations. While the specifics can vary depending on the nature of the business, its size, and whether it operates in a free zone or mainland, here is a general overview of the legal obligations for accounting in Dubai:

Maintenance of Accurate Financial Records: Businesses are legally required to maintain accurate, detailed, and comprehensive records of all financial transactions. This includes but is not limited to sales, purchases, receipts, expenses, and payroll transactions. The records must be kept in a manner that enables them to be readily available for inspection and auditing purposes.

Preparation of Financial Statements: Companies must prepare annual financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. These documents provide insights into the financial health of the business and are crucial for stakeholders, including shareholders, creditors, and regulatory bodies.

Compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS): Financial statements must be prepared in accordance with the IFRS, which are globally recognized accounting standards. IFRS provides guidelines on how to report financial events and conditions in financial statements, ensuring transparency, accountability, and comparability of financial information across different jurisdictions.

Annual Audits: Most businesses, especially those in free zones and public companies, are required to have their financial accounts audited annually by an approved auditor. The auditor examines the financial records and statements to verify their accuracy and compliance with relevant laws and accounting standards. The audited financial statements must be submitted to the respective regulatory authorities, such as the specific freezone authority. 

VAT Accounting and Filing: For businesses subject to VAT, accurate accounting for VAT on sales and purchases is mandatory. This includes issuing tax invoices, maintaining VAT records, and filing tax returns periodically (usually quarterly). Proper VAT accounting ensures compliance with the Federal Tax Authority’s regulations and facilitates the accurate calculation and payment of VAT.

Record Retention: The UAE Commercial Companies Law and tax regulations require businesses to retain their financial records for a specific period, typically five years. This period may vary depending on specific regulations applicable to certain industries or activities.

Budgeting and Financial Planning: While not strictly a legal obligation, effective budgeting and financial planning are essential for the strategic management of a business. This includes forecasting revenue, planning expenses, and assessing financial risks and opportunities.