Emirati tax agent programme launches training for first cohort of 50 citizens
A new Emirati tax agent programme has begun training 50 UAE nationals in the first cohort, aiming to build a national cadre of certified tax agents to support the country’s evolving tax framework.
Federal Tax Authority and New Economy Academy launch training
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) and the New Economy Academy have inaugurated classroom and practical training for the first 50 participants in the Emirati tax agent programme. The initiative forms part of the national campaign positioning the UAE as a global entrepreneurship hub launched under the directives of UAE leadership. The programme is intended to develop specialised, locally based tax advisory capacity to support businesses complying with new tax regimes.
Target to license 500 Emirati tax agents within three years
Officials say the programme aims to license 500 Emirati tax agents over the next three years through intensive diploma tracks and practical assessments. The phased target addresses both immediate needs for registered tax representatives and a longer-term strategy to increase Emirati participation in the tax and finance professions. By expanding the number of accredited agents, authorities expect to reinforce voluntary compliance and reduce reliance on external advisory services.
Two specialised diplomas: VAT and corporate tax
The training is delivered through two specialised diplomas: a Value Added Tax (VAT) diploma and a Corporate Tax diploma, each enrolling 25 Emirati participants. The VAT diploma covers the legal and regulatory framework, registration procedures, filing requirements and the management of accounting records to ensure compliance. The Corporate Tax diploma focuses on the fundamentals of the UAE’s company tax system, registration and disclosure procedures, and calculations of accounting profit and the taxable base.
Curriculum combines law, practice and case studies
Both diploma streams blend theoretical modules with practical applications and case studies designed to simulate real-world tax compliance scenarios. Participants will undertake exercises in preparing returns, managing taxpayer records and applying disclosure rules under UAE legislation. The practical emphasis aims to ensure that graduates can transition quickly into roles providing direct support to taxpayers and businesses.
Officials highlight Emiratisation and governance goals
Abdulaziz Mohammed Al-Mulla, Director General of the Federal Tax Authority, described the start of practical training as a milestone in increasing reliance on Emirati talent within the tax ecosystem. He said the programme is aligned with broader plans to nurture a professional, transparent tax environment and to promote continuous learning among national cadres. Al-Mulla added that prioritising citizens for roles as authorised tax agents will help sustain high standards of governance while opening career pathways in a growing sector.
Academy stresses skills for a modern economy
Dr. Laila Fereydoun, Chief Executive of the New Economy Academy, said the Emirati tax agent programme reflects the academy’s commitment to equipping national talent with skills required by the modern economy. She emphasised that the course structure is designed to build a solid knowledge base and creative problem-solving skills for tax professionals. According to Dr. Fereydoun, the initiative supports national competitiveness by ensuring the private and public sectors have access to qualified Emirati specialists.
Support measures and professional pathways for graduates
The FTA has indicated it will provide facilitation and support designed to ease participants’ transition into the role of authorised tax agents, including access to further specialised training and accredited assessments. Graduates of the diplomas will be eligible to pursue professional licensing to act as tax agents on behalf of businesses, subject to regulatory approval and any required practical experience. The approach seeks to both expand the pool of domestic advisors and create new employment opportunities for UAE nationals in the finance and compliance sectors.
Implications for businesses and tax compliance
Businesses operating in the UAE can expect a growing supply of locally qualified tax agents able to assist with VAT filings, corporate tax returns and regulatory disclosures. The presence of Emirati agents may improve communication between taxpayers and regulators and support higher standards of documentation and reporting. For smaller firms in particular, access to local accredited advisers could reduce compliance costs and strengthen confidence in meeting tax obligations.
The initiative also ties into the national entrepreneurship campaign by reinforcing the ecosystem that supports start-ups and established companies alike. Developing domestic tax expertise is viewed as a strategic enabler for business growth, facilitating smoother tax administration and broader economic participation.
The first cohort’s progress will be closely monitored as programme managers refine course content and practical assessments. Lessons from the initial roll-out will inform expansion plans and inform the pathway for licensing additional Emirati tax agents over the coming years.
