Key Takeaways
- ADGM companies typically must file audited IFRS financial statements
- The auditor must be registered with ADGM
- FSRA-regulated firms face extra prudential and client-asset audit obligations
Abu Dhabi Global Market is the emirate's international financial centre, built on English common law with its own companies and financial-services regulations. Its audit regime is regulator-grade, closer to DIFC than to a standard commercial free zone.
Who must be audited in ADGM
Companies incorporated in ADGM are generally required to prepare audited financial statements under ADGM Companies Regulations. Entities regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) carry additional obligations, including prudential returns and, where they hold client assets or money, specialised audits.
ADGM-registered auditors
Audits of ADGM entities must be signed by a firm registered with ADGM. This registration is separate from the mainland Ministry of Economy list, so verify a firm's ADGM standing before engaging it — an otherwise reputable UAE auditor may not be eligible.
Standards, filing, and tax
ADGM financial statements are prepared under IFRS and audited under International Standards on Auditing, then filed within the deadlines set by the Registration Authority. As with all UAE entities, ADGM companies must also meet corporate tax obligations, and audited accounts provide the reliable basis the FTA expects.
