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Internal Audit Services in UAE
An internal audit gives management and the board an independent view of whether controls are working, risks are managed and procedures are actually followed. Done well, it finds problems early, before they turn into losses, fraud or failed external audits.
At Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountants, we provide outsourced and co-sourced internal audit services for companies in Sharjah and across the UAE. We plan the work around your key risks, test the controls that matter and report findings in plain language with practical, agreed actions.
Internal audit at a glance
- Purpose: independent assurance on governance, risk management and internal controls.
- Who it reports to: the board, the audit committee or the owners, not to the managers being audited.
- Standards we follow: the Institute of Internal Auditors’ Global Internal Audit Standards, effective from 9 January 2025.
- Listed companies: UAE public joint stock companies follow the SCA Governance Guide (Chairman’s Decision No. 3/R.M of 2020, as amended), which expects an internal control framework and an internal audit function.
- Different from external audit: an external audit gives an opinion on the financial statements; internal audit looks at processes, controls and risks throughout the year.
How can we help you?
Get in touch with Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountants for expert auditing, accounting, tax, and advisory services in the UAE.
- +971 50 3636231
Our Internal Audit Services
Outsourced internal audit
A full internal audit function without hiring an in-house team, from annual plan to board reporting.
Co-sourced internal audit
Specialist support for your existing internal audit team on specific areas, peaks or skills gaps.
Risk assessment and audit planning
A risk-based internal audit plan that focuses effort on the areas that matter most to your business.
Internal control review
Testing the design and operation of controls over sales, purchases, payroll, inventory, cash and IT.
Process and compliance audits
Checking that policies, SOPs and UAE regulatory requirements are followed in practice. See our SOP services.
Follow-up reviews
Confirming that agreed actions have been implemented and that issues are closed.
Areas We Commonly Review
- Revenue, billing and collections
- Procurement, purchasing and payables
- Payroll and HR processes
- Inventory and fixed assets
- Treasury, cash and bank controls
- VAT and Corporate Tax processes (VAT, Corporate Tax)
- IT general controls and access rights
- Related-party transactions and approvals
- AML/CFT compliance procedures (AML/CFT)
Who Needs Internal Audit?
- Listed companies and their subsidiaries that must meet governance requirements
- Family businesses and groups that want independent oversight as they grow
- Companies preparing for investment, financing, a sale or an IPO
- Businesses with multiple branches, entities or free zone companies
- Organisations that have had fraud, control failures or audit findings
Our Internal Audit Process
- Understand: we meet management, review your structure and processes, and agree the scope.
- Assess risk: we rank risks and build a practical, risk-based internal audit plan.
- Test: we review documents, test samples and walk through processes with your team.
- Report: we share clear findings, risk ratings and agreed actions with owners and dates.
- Follow up: we check progress on actions and report back to management or the board.
Benefits of Internal Audit Services
At Hussain Al Shemsi Chartered Accountants, our internal audit services help businesses enhance operations, reduce risk and ensure compliance. Here are the key benefits:
Compliance Assurance
Ensure operations align with UAE laws and industry standards, avoiding penalties and reputational risks.
Clear Benchmarks
Identify and update performance standards to improve operational efficiency and align with core business goals.
Expert Insight
Our certified auditors bring external expertise to uncover hidden risks and offer effective solutions.
Independent Evaluation
An unbiased view helps improve internal controls, reduce risk, and strengthen governance.
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular audits give real-time feedback—allowing timely corrections without waiting for year-end.
Staff Accountability
Audits boost performance, reduce fraud, and improve morale among dedicated employees.
Better Role Clarity
Internal audits support structured workflows and clearer responsibilities across departments.
Resource Optimization
Identify underutilized assets and cut unnecessary costs to boost profitability.
Why Choose Hussain Al Shemsi
- Chartered Accountants with audit, tax and advisory experience under one roof. Meet our team.
- Risk-based, not checklist-based: we focus on what could actually hurt your business.
- Practical recommendations that fit the size of your business, not textbook controls.
- Based in Sharjah, supporting businesses across all seven emirates and free zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between internal audit and external audit?
An external audit gives an independent opinion on your annual financial statements. Internal audit reviews processes, controls and risks during the year and reports to management or the board.
Is internal audit mandatory in the UAE?
For most private companies it is not required by law, but it is good practice. UAE listed public joint stock companies follow the SCA Governance Guide, which expects an internal control framework and an internal audit function, and many regulated sectors have their own requirements.
Can we outsource our internal audit function?
Yes. Many SMEs and groups outsource internal audit to an external firm, which gives them experienced auditors without the cost of a full in-house team.
How often should internal audits be done?
It depends on your risks. Most businesses follow an annual risk-based plan, with higher-risk areas reviewed more often.
What standards do you follow?
We follow the Institute of Internal Auditors’ Global Internal Audit Standards, which took effect on 9 January 2025.
Can the same firm do our internal and external audit?
To protect independence, a firm should not audit work it has carried out for you. We will discuss any conflict with you before taking on both roles.
What will we receive at the end of the audit?
A clear report with findings, risk ratings, recommended actions, owners and target dates, plus a summary for the board.
Strengthen Your Internal Controls
Talk to our team about an internal audit plan that fits your business and risks.
Official guidance: IIA Global Internal Audit Standards.
