Salaries for Tax Professionals in Dubai & Abu Dhabi: What to Expect in 2025

In the UAE's booming economy, the demand for tax professionals is growing. As corporate tax is introduced and more focus is placed on VAT compliance, companies wish to employ seasoned tax professionals. Whether you are just starting your career or have worked for decades, information regarding salary trends can impact your future career choice.

If you want tax jobs in UAE, knowing how much can be made in 2025 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi cities will help you make a well-informed career decision.

Growing Demand for Tax Professionals in the UAE

The UAE has witnessed considerable tax reform in the recent past. Right from the implementation of VAT to implementing corporate tax, businesses now require tax professionals to plan and comply better. This has opened new pathways in finance, real estate, retail, and tech industries.

With companies scrambling to keep up with evolving regulations, demand for tax, audit, and finance experts is greater than ever. It is therefore the ideal time to consider tax consultancy Middle East, particularly within hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

What Can You Earn in 2025?

Salaries for UAE tax professionals vary depending on experience, qualification, and company size. Here is a rundown of average monthly salaries to expect in 2025:

Junior Tax Associate (1-3 years' experience): AED 10,000 to AED 16,000

Tax Accountant: AED 14,000 to AED 22,000

Tax Manager: AED 25,000 to AED 38,000

Senior Tax Manager / Head of Tax: AED 40,000 to AED 60,000 or more

These pay rates may vary based on where you live—Dubai will usually compensate you a little higher due to the cost of living. Abu Dhabi may also give you benefits such as housing or travel allowances, though.

Major Factors That Determine Salary

Certain factors determine the salary you would get in a tax career:

Qualifications: Having qualifications with something such as ACCA, CPA, or CTA can fetch you more.

Experience: The higher the experience in tax compliance, reporting, or planning, the higher the opportunity of getting a better-paying job.

Industry: Oil & gas, multinationals, and banking industries offer greater pay for tax roles.

Company size: International corporations or big companies offer greater pay packages compared to small businesses or start-ups.

If you are moving to the UAE or switching careers in the nation, it will be advisable to take these into consideration when making decisions on salary offers.

Career Opportunities Outside Tax

There are also professionals who are working in the tax arena, looking for accounting jobs Dubai as part of their career shift. Auditing, accounting, and financial reporting jobs share some similarities with tax work. Being proficient in both can increase your chances of being a sought-after employee by employers. 

This experience can be transferred to senior roles such as Finance Manager, Head of Compliance, or CFO—if you also acquire regional experience and become familiar with local tax law.

Maximize Your Salary

The following are simple steps to negotiate a higher salary as a tax professional:

Stay current: Short courses in UAE tax law or corporate tax compliance will cost you in the long term.

Gain local experience: Familiarity with local business culture and taxation gives you an edge.

Network aggressively: Attend tax or finance seminars in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to network with recruiters and interviewers. 

Associate with a specialist recruiter: They can provide guidance on salary assumptions and negotiate improved offers for you.

If you're eager to move to the next level in your tax or accounting career, then Alchemy Search is at your service. We recruit top finance and tax professionals across the UAE and wider Middle East. We are familiar with the top firms and what they seek.

Whatever your level - from your initial UAE role to a head of tax position - we can assist you in securing the perfect match.

Call Alchemy Search today, and we will help guide you to your next career success within the Middle East jobs market.