Engagement letter template UAE: clauses to include

Each clause should be short and specific. Vague scope is the root of most fee disputes.

• Parties: firm and client legal names as on their trade licences
• Scope: services listed, with transaction bands and periods covered
• Out of scope: audit, legal advice, clean-up of past periods unless agreed
• Client responsibilities: documents, statements and answers by agreed dates
• Deadlines: the firm's turnaround after receiving complete information
• Fees, billing frequency, VAT and late payment terms
• Term, notice period and handover of records on exit

State plainly who files and who is responsible. A typical clause reads: "The firm will prepare the VAT return from the records provided and submit it for the client's approval. The client remains responsible for the accuracy of the information and the return filed." If your firm acts as registered tax agent, describe that appointment separately.

Set a cut-off: for example, records received after the 10th of the month after the tax period may not be processed in time for the 28th due date.

Name the platform, who pays for it and who owns the data. Sample wording: "The client's books are kept on HelloBooks. The client owns its accounting data and may request an export at any time." For firms on the White-Label License, describe the platform under your own brand name.

Explain how AI is used: "The firm uses AI tools to capture documents, propose categories and match bank transactions. All postings, adjustments and returns are reviewed by a member of the firm before they are finalised." This sets the right expectation and reassures clients who ask.

Here is how the key terms might read for a Dubai mainland retailer, in summary form.

• Services: monthly bookkeeping for two Emirates NBD accounts; quarterly VAT 201 preparation; annual corporate tax computation support
• Volume: up to 400 bank lines and 150 bills a month
• Client provides statements by the 5th and bills via the mobile app as incurred
• Firm delivers the management pack by the 15th
• Fees: fixed monthly, invoiced in advance, plus VAT; clean-up of 2025 quoted separately
• Notice: 60 days either side; data export provided on exit