Running a business in the UAE means keeping up with tax laws and keeping your records in order.
The Federal Tax Authority expects companies to use systems that support proper VAT reporting to avoid errors and penalties.
Choosing the right FTA approved accounting software in UAE makes compliance easier and gives you confidence in your books.
Read on to discover which software is right for your business and how to stay compliant.
What Is FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
FTA approved accounting software in UAE is software that meets the Federal Tax Authority’s standards for recording, calculating, and reporting VAT correctly.
The FTA maintains a public page for Accredited Tax Accounting Software Vendors that you can check when evaluating tools.
EmaraTax is the FTA’s digital platform for registration, returns, and payments, and you access it through the FTA e-services portal.
Why FTA Approval Matters for Your Business
Choosing software that aligns with FTA rules reduces compliance risk and makes audits smoother. It also saves time that would otherwise be spent fixing manual errors.
- ✅ Lower chance of late fees and return issues
- ✅ Faster VAT preparation in the right format
- ✅ Better audit readiness with consistent records and audit trails
📚 Also read: Tax Compliance: Why It Matters for Businesses in the UAE
Requirements for FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
Knowing the core requirements helps you shortlist tools that are practical and compliant.
VAT Compliance Features You Must Have
- ✅ Automatic VAT calculation and VAT-compliant invoices
- ✅ VAT return reports that follow the VAT201 structure used in the UAE
- ✅ Emirate-wise reporting required for VAT returns
- ✅ Ability to produce an FTA Audit File (FAF) when requested during audits
Data Security, Reporting, and Integration Standards
- ✅ Secure data storage and role-based access
- ✅ Clear audit trails of edits and postings
- ✅ Integrations with banking, CRM, and inventory where needed
- ✅ Cloud or on-premise deployment based on your company policy
Popular FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
Pick based on your size, workflows, and budget. Where accreditation or special filing flows exist, they are noted.
✨ QuickBooks in the UAE — VAT Ready
QuickBooks supports VAT tracking and calculation and can be set with UAE VAT rates. It generates VAT reports you can review, then you file the return manually through EmaraTax.
Key benefits
- ✅ VAT-compliant invoicing and reports
- ✅ Bank feeds and third-party integrations
- ✅ Plans that scale with your business
✨ TallyPrime in Dubai
TallyPrime is widely used by SMEs in the region and supports UAE VAT, returns, and the audit file that authorities may request during reviews.
Key benefits
- ✅ Cost-effective for small and midsize firms
- ✅ Familiar workflows for accountants
- ✅ Reliable VAT reporting and invoice controls
✨ Zoho Books — FTA Accredited With Direct EmaraTax Filing
Zoho Books is officially FTA accredited and is recognized as a Digital Tax Integrator. This means you can file VAT returns directly to EmaraTax from within Zoho Books, cutting out extra steps.
Key benefits
- ✅ Direct VAT filing to EmaraTax and voluntary disclosures
- ✅ Real-time reports and reminders
- ✅ Smooth integrations across sales, CRM, and payments
Low-key tip: OPAB often implements Zoho Books and QuickBooks for real estate firms, sports academies, and service businesses in Dubai to keep compliance clean and decision-making simple.
📚 Also read: Odoo vs Zoho: Which Is the Better Choice for Your Business?
✨ Odoo ERP — Flexible and Customizable
Odoo Middle East DMCC appears on the FTA’s accredited vendor list for Odoo version 17, with validity shown till June 2025. Always verify the current status on the FTA site if you’re considering Odoo.
Key benefits
- ✅ Modular apps for accounting, CRM, inventory, and more
- ✅ Customizable VAT flows for complex operations
- ✅ Scales from midsize to enterprise-grade
✨ SAP — Enterprise VAT and FAF Reporting
SAP provides UAE-specific reports, including VAT201 and the FTA Audit File (FAF) used during audits. It’s a fit when you need multi-entity control and deep reporting.
Key benefits
- ✅ Advanced analytics and controls
- ✅ Role-based access for large teams
- ✅ Strong audit and compliance features
Comparing the Best FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
Match your pick to your stage and structure.
For Small Businesses and Startups
- ✅ Cloud tools like Zoho Books or QuickBooks are practical
- ✅ Easy setup and clear VAT workflows
- ✅ Minimal IT overhead and useful support resources
For Medium to Large Enterprises
- ✅ ERP systems like Odoo or SAP fit cross-department processes
- ✅ Custom approvals and document flows
- ✅ Consolidated reporting across locations and units
Most Popular Choices in the UAE Market
- ✅ QuickBooks, TallyPrime, and Zoho Books are widely used among SMEs
- ✅ Odoo and SAP often serve larger or rapidly scaling firms
- ✅ Local partners can support onboarding and training
📚 Also read: Dubai Debt Reduction and the 9% Corporate Tax
Benefits of Using FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
You get compliance and efficiency benefits at the same time.
- ✅ Accurate VAT submissions and fewer manual errors
- ✅ Standardized reports that match FTA formats
- ✅ Faster month-end and audit readiness
- ✅ Clear role permissions and activity logs
- ✅ Smoother EmaraTax workflows, especially with direct integrators like Zoho Books
OPAB can set up and optimize your chosen software so you get clean compliance and clear dashboards for better decisions.
How to Choose the Right FTA Approved Software for Your Business
Review what you need now and where you plan to be in one to two years.
Key Factors to Consider
- ✅ Budget: Balance price with VAT features and user seats
- ✅ Industry: Retail, services, and real estate may need specialized modules
- ✅ Access: Decide on cloud for mobility or on-premise for local control
- ✅ Team: Check multi-user access, approvals, and audit trails
- ✅ Filing flow: Confirm if your software supports direct EmaraTax filing (like Zoho Books) or manual filing
📚 Also read: FTA VAT Registration: A Complete Guide
UAE VAT Essentials You Should Not Miss
- ✅ Registration thresholds: Mandatory at AED 375,000 and voluntary at AED 187,500, based on past 12 months or the next 30 days forecast
- ✅ Return deadline: Submit returns and payments within 28 days after the tax period ends. If the due date falls on a weekend or holiday, it moves to the next working day
- ✅ Portal: Use EmaraTax to register, file, and pay
Conclusion
Finding the right FTA approved accounting software in the UAE helps you stay compliant and keeps your books audit ready.
Whether you choose an SME-friendly cloud tool or a full ERP, focus on VAT reports that match EmaraTax, clean audit trails, and reliable support.
If you need help setting up your system or ensuring full compliance, Outsource Prime Accountants and Bookkeepers (OPAB) can support you.
OPAB works with businesses across Dubai and the UAE to implement and optimize tools like Zoho Books and QuickBooks, ensuring clarity and compliance.
Reach out to OPAB for expert advice tailored to your needs.
FAQs About FTA Approved Accounting Software in UAE
Which accounting software is best for small businesses?
Choose one that is simple, affordable, and VAT compliant. Cloud options are easiest to set up and maintain. Make sure it generates VAT reports suitable for EmaraTax.
Which ERP is mostly used in UAE?
Large companies often use scalable ERP systems such as SAP or Odoo. These systems integrate accounting, HR, and operations. Their reporting and access controls make them a good fit for UAE VAT compliance.
How much is QuickBooks in UAE?
Pricing varies by plan and number of users. Smaller plans are designed for startups, while higher tiers support more users and advanced features. Always check the UAE pricing page for updated rates.
What is SAP accounting software?
SAP accounting is part of a larger ERP suite used by big enterprises. It supports UAE VAT compliance and can generate audit files when requested. It is best for businesses with complex structures and multiple departments.
