Associate 1 | External Audit | UAE Nationals

Grant Thornton UAE; Dubai; On-site; AED 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Grant Thornton UAE in Dubai seeks an Associate 1 to support External Audit engagements in Financial Services or Non-Financial Services. You will assist with audit testing, prepare clear working papers and learn Grant Thornton's audit methodology, building foundations in accounting and client service.

You will collaborate with experienced team members, gain exposure to IFRS, and pursue a professional qualification (ACA/ACCA/CPA). The role offers growth, mentorship, and UAE-focused client exposure.

Qualifications

• 0–1 year external audit experience; internship or relevant practical experience is an advantage
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
• Studying towards ACA, ACCA or CPA
• Basic understanding of accounting principles and IFRS

Responsibilities

• Assist with audit testing and prepare clear working papers
• Learn Grant Thornton's audit methodology and apply it on engagements
• Collaborate with senior team members and maintain client service standards
• Build understanding of IFRS and Financial Services regulations

Skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication

Teamwork

Analytical thinking

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

ACA/ACCA/CPA in progress

Tools

Audit software

Job description

About Us

Grant Thornton UAE is a leading professional services firm, providing audit and assurance, tax and advisory services across multiple industries. We have served public and private sector clients in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for almost 60 years and are committed to delivering quality and excellence driven by fresh thinking, diverse perspectives and a personalised approach. Grant Thornton UAE is part of a global network of independent firms with over 76,000 professionals across 150 markets.

We're driven by a purpose of shaping the world we live in, grounded in trust, integrity and the belief that dynamic businesses and thriving communities go hand in hand. By living our purpose and focusing on quality in everything we do, we strive to be the go-to firm for growth.

At Grant Thornton UAE, our people drive our impact. With over 50 nationalities represented across our teams, we’re proud to foster a culture that celebrates diversity, empowers individuals and delivers meaningful outcomes for our clients and communities. Our unique environment combines the opportunities of a major global organisation with the connection and collaboration of a close‑knit firm.

Here, you can widen your opportunities. Be inspired. Be challenged. Be yourself. Here, you can.

Service Line Overview

Providing a wide range of Audit and Assurance services to private, public and international companies across various sectors. We work closely with over 700 companies annually, ranging from SMEs to international listed companies. The client base is exciting and fast growing. Our people are committed to delivering best-in-class assurance services in locations where you are. We respond to the challenges of our clients with high quality, value for money technical solutions every time.

Role Overview

As an Associate 1, you will support External Audit engagements within Financial Services or Non Financial Services by assisting with audit testing, preparing clear working papers and learning Grant Thornton's audit methodology. You will work closely with experienced team members and build strong foundations in audit, accounting and client service.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting audit engagements across Financial Services or Non Financial Services clients under the guidance of senior team members
• Performing assigned audit procedures and documenting work clearly and accurately
• Assisting with the preparation of work papers and financial statement schedules
• Obtaining and organizing client information required for audit testing
• Using audit software, artificial intelligence and data analytics tools as directed
• Communicating progress, questions and issues promptly to the engagement team
• Building an understanding of IFRS, audit methodology and Financial Services regulations
• Completing professional development activities and working towards a relevant qualification

Success Criteria

• 0-1 year of External Audit experience; internship or relevant practical experience is an advantage
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline
• Studying towards a professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA or CPA
• Basic understanding of accounting principles and IFRS
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office and willing to learn audit software
• Strong attention to detail, organization and time management
• Clear communication skills and a collaborative approach
• Willingness to work additional hours and travel as needed

Our Values

• Collaboration – Ask for help, give help – we work well together
• Leadership – Have courage and inspire others – we challenge each other to be the best we can be
• Excellence – Find a better way every time – we never get complacent
• Agility – Think broadly, act quickly – we thrive in change
• Responsibility – Use influence wisely – we own our actions
• Respect – Listen and understand, be forthright – we create honest relationships

Our Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package, flexible work arrangements, professional development support, and a range of wellbeing and community initiatives—designed to help you thrive personally and professionally.