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Internal Audit In Retail Industry: A Smart Move For UAE Retailers Internal audit is among the most vital aspects of business expansion and efficiency. Internal audit is an essential tool to help retailers not only to increase compliance, but also to ensure precision in their processes and procedures. Internal audit assists in analyzing and auditing a range of operational and financial areas to help businesses maintain efficient measures that increase efficiency, prevent fraud, and develop risk mitigation strategies. Through the analysis of procedures, policies, and controls for inventory management and financial management, as well as receiving and supply chain procedures, internal audits have significantly enhanced the operational effectiveness and risk mitigation of retail companies. This blog explains how internal audits affect the different aspects of a company to increase efficiency and decrease risk. Understanding Internal Audits In Retail Internal audits are an independent and thorough examination of an organization’s internal controls, procedures, policies, and processes that govern every aspect of a company’s operations. It doesn’t matter if it’s related to IT, supply chains, finance, or risk management procedures; the audit provides a detailed analysis of all these aspects to discover gaps, suggest improvements, and recommendations to improve the efficiency of the business overall. Why Internal Audit Is Crucial For Retail 1.Operational efficiency Operational audits for retail stores are a significant factor in improving the efficiency of the retail store. When auditing processes are correctly implemented, an organization can boost efficiency by as much as 25%. 2. Improved inventory management Correct inventory records are essential for retail. Internal audits ensure that stock levels are reported correctly to prevent shrinkage and increase the efficiency of stock turnover. 3. Financial accuracy and VAT compliance In the wake of the unveiled VAT in the UAE, retailers must keep complete financial records. 4. Better decision making Audit reports can provide valuable insight into the performance of businesses as well as internal control. Retail owners and managers can make better informed data driven choices. 5. Building Stakeholder Trust If you’re dealing with partners, investors, and government departments, a practical internal audit framework displays transparency as well as accountability, along with professionalism. How To Improve Financial Control Through Internal Auditing 1. Ensuring accurate financial reporting One of the principal objectives for internal auditing would be to confirm the credibility of financial reports. Auditors determine whether financial statements, such as those of the balance sheet, the income statement and the cash flow reports accurately reflect the economic state of the company. Improvement Actions: Cross-check reports against the ledgers and transaction records. Verify that all financial entries are correct, correctly classified and accompanied by documents. Conciliate discrepancies to ensure fullness and exactness. Benefits: Financial statements that show the truth and fairness of More accurate decision-making information Improved trust among creditors, investors and regulators. 2. Assessing budgeting and financial planning Internal audits aid in improving the financial controls by looking at the process for budgeting in a company. They will identify the areas in which budgets may be exceeded or not being adhered to, and ensure that funds are appropriately allocated. Improvement actions Comparing the actual financial performance against budgeted projections. Examine areas of excessive expenditure Recommend changes in the upcoming budgeting cycles that better align with the financial goals. Benefits: Effective utilisation of financial resources Aligning spending to business objectives Better long-term financial planning 3. Improving cash flow management Internal audits play a vital part in ensuring that businesses are operating with proper money flow control processes that are in operation, which reduces the possibility of liquidity crisis. Improvement actions Examine the accounts receivable and payable procedures. Examine your cash handling processes  Benefits: Cash flow is more predictable Improved working capital management Lower risk of insolvency Best Practices For Retail Internal Audit 1. Leverage data analytics Utilize accurate data analysis and tools to spot problems, errors, or fraud. This will allow you to make more effective recommendations for improving the controls of your business. 2. Standardize audit procedures Make audit checklists that are uniform, as well as templates and reporting guidelines. These will guarantee that audits conducted internally are carried out thoroughly and cover all aspects of the company. 3. Ongoing training and development Make sure your audit staff has access to the latest technologies and legislation. Training helps the team adjust to changing laws and trends and deliver more effective results. Core Focus Areas Of Retail Internal Audits 1. Inventory management and shrinkage control Inventory is the foundation of every retail company. Internal audits look at how inventory is monitored and stored. They also examine how inventory is checked to ensure that shrinkage is not caused by theft, damage, or a mishap. 2. Cash handling and financial controls Internal audits examine the efficiency of cash reconciliation, point-of-sale systems, refund processes, and segregation of tasks. 3. Sales and revenue assurance Auditors verify that the transactions of sales are correctly recorded and reported. This involves conducting tests on the POS system, discount control, and loyalty programs, as well as e-commerce integrations. Our Internal Audit Services For Retail We offer comprehensive internal audit assistance specifically tailored to retail environments. 1. Inventory and stock audits We carry out physical counts of stock and evaluate the effectiveness of the tracking of inventory systems, and find out if there are discrepancies, in order to decrease shrinkage and increase precision. 2. Cash handling and POS controls We examine all cash registers you have, point of sale (POS) systems, as well as reconciliation procedures to protect you from errors and fraud. 3. Sales and revenue audits We ensure that sales are properly recorded as well as that discounts and returns are applied correctly, and that your revenue recognition practices are in line with accounting guidelines. 4. VAT and regulatory compliance We make sure that your business is compliant in accordance with UAE Tax laws (or other tax laws in your area), as well as labor laws and specific licensing requirements for the industry. Final Thoughts In Caviar Accounting, we are familiar with the specific challenges

UAE Corporate Tax Reform 2025: What You Need to Know The tax structure of the UAE’s corporations has undergone a dramatic change by 2025. Based on the federal tax rate of 9%, which was which was implemented in 2023. The change introduces a domestic minimum top up tax (DMTT) of 15 per cent for large multinational corporations starting January 1 2025. In the meantime, favourable levels and exemptions for free zones remain in place to help local SMEs and entrepreneurs. The UAE Corporate Tax Reform of 2025 represents an essential change in the fiscal environment of the country by introducing a standard corporate tax that will increase the transparency of taxation and align with international tax regulations. It is believed that the United Arab Emirates is the largest business hub in the globe and is a magnet for businesses from all over the world due to its tax friendly business environment. Starting in January 2025, the nation plans to introduce a minimum top up tax in its domestic market (DMTT) of 15% on multinational firms. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development(OECD) initiated this project to be a part of the world’s minimum tax framework in order to ensure an honest and transparent tax system and to prevent tax avoidance. Key Tax Changes 1. Corporate Tax Rates 0 per cent in profits of up to AED 375,000 9 % average rate of profit over AED 375,000 15% for in-scope multinational companies (MNEs), which have worldwide revenues greater than EUR750 million for at most two of the preceding four years. 2. Free Zone & SME Relief The Qualifying Free Zone People have the option of retaining zero tax if they satisfy standards of substance and trade. SMEs can get relief from thresholds of AED 375,000 threshold 3. OECD Pillar Two & DMTT 15% of DMTT is in line with UAE law to Pillar Two/GloBE of the OECD by imposing a minimal effective global rate on the largest MNEs Cabinet Decision No. 1422 (Feb 2025) will be operationalizing DMTT beginning January 1st of 2025. Implication of New Corporate Tax on Multinational Organizations With the introduction of the brand new domestic minimum top-up tax (DMTT), MNE must be able to overcome the challenges and also opportunities:• Compliance and Reporting UAE multinational corporations must make sure that their financial statements are in line with the latest tax policies. It is crucial to observe the strictest standards of UAE taxes for corporate entities. Operating Cost: A new corporate tax rate of 15% can result in an increase in operating expenses, such as taxes as well as tax compliance costs and the reporting process, all of which impact the budgets of multinational firms. Maintaining Global Competition: UAE is a thriving commercial hub with a strong strategic location and two taxation agreements despite the current tax law. Key Benefits of 15% Corporate Tax for the UAE Economy The introduction of a 15% corporation tax offers several advantages. It is a good idea to consider the following benefits. Global Alignment UAE, because it is a business hub, adheres to OECD world standards. Increased Revenue New 15% corporate tax will increase revenue and boost the UAE economy. Economic Diversification: Tax revenue is expected to contribute to public revenue generated from the non-oil industries, including construction, manufacturing and education, as well as technology as well as healthcare. A Strategic Approach: Preparing for New Tax Changes: To be successful in navigating the ever changing UAE corporate tax structure, businesses should adopt a shrewd and sensible approach The Tax Impact Assessment: Businesses need to consider how changes in tax rates, such as those with a 15% DMTT rate for MNEs, impact their financial structure and plans. Systems and Processes Upgrades: Companies must invest in reliable software for accounting, tax reporting tools, as well as staff instruction to guarantee the accuracy of timely and compliant tax filings. Professional Consulting: Engaging Tax advisors and experts can be crucial to understanding the complex rules, maximizing deductions and understanding appropriate incentives, exemptions, or other deductions. Future Ready Planning Companies must align their tax strategies with their business goals and take into consideration the R&D credits as well as exemption from tax, Free Zone access, as well as potential acquisitions and expansions to ensure that they remain efficient and compliant within the business environment of the UAE. Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Corporate Tax UAE in 2025 Assess Your Business’s Tax Liability Check if your firm’s earnings exceed AED 375,000, and then determine what percentage of the company tax will apply. For multinational companies. Examine whether your global earnings exceed the EUR750 million threshold that triggers the 15 per cent DMT. Register for Corporate Tax Businesses and natural persons need to sign up for corporate tax on or before March 31st 2025, to avoid being liable for administrative fines. Make sure that all organizations, including freelancers as well as free-zone businesses, understand the registration requirements. Review Free Zone Status and Exemptions Free-zone companies that qualify for HTML0 may get a 0% tax rate under certain conditions. But any profits not qualifying are taxed by the company. Examine your eligibility to ensure you comply with the free zone guidelines to maximize tax benefits. Update Accounting and Reporting Systems Create strong accounting frameworks for accurate calculation of tax-free income, allowable deductions as well as exceptions. Get ready for the brand new standards of compliance that include price documentation for switches as well as the participation exemption regulations that will be introduced in 2025. Understand and Leverage Tax Incentives Discover tax incentives related to the development of research (R&D) as well as high-cost work and allowances for funding. Talk to tax experts for all pertinent advantages as well as reduce taxes legally. Plan for the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax Big MNEs should look at their tax obligations worldwide to calculate the 15 per cent tax rate for DMTT. Align tax strategies by OECD guidelines to stay away from double taxation while maximizing the efficiency of taxation across the globe. Stay

Comprehensive Guide For Accounting In UAE The importance of accounting in UAE is evident since it plays a crucial part in ensuring clarity of financial transactions, compliance with regulations, attracting foreign investment, etc. It is the process of tracking the flow of money, expenses, assets and liabilities to give a precise view of the economic health of a business. Caviar offers skilled accounting services that assist businesses at all stages of expansion. We combine local expertise with the best international procedures to provide accounting solutions that will add value to your company. Why accounting is important for business 1.Financial Clarity Accounting can help business owners know how much cash is being made, used and placed into investments. This transparency helps in making better decisions as well as long-term plans. 2.Informed Decision-Making With accurate financial information, it can make informed choices regarding budgeting, investments, hiring, expansion, etc. 3.Tax Compliance Accounting is essential to ensure that the business complies with the legal requirements. It reduces penalties and ensures that all transactions are properly recorded. 4.Performance Monitoring Regular financial reports help firms evaluate their performance over time, spot patterns and trends, and assess their performance. Key Accounting Services in UAE Contact Us 1.Bookkeeping and Financial Reporting  A well-organized bookkeeping system ensures that your company has an advanced view of its financial standing and helps manage cash flow tax compliance and planning financials. Financial reporting takes it one step further by examining the information and presenting it in statements like the balance sheet, statements of income, cash flow statements, etc. 2.Corporate Tax Accounting Corporate Tax Accounting is the process of detailed calculation, reporting, and optimizing your business’s tax earnings while ensuring that you comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the UAE Corporate Tax Law. 3.Payroll Management Payroll management is crucial for every business to ensure that employees receive their wages accurately and on time while complying with legal and regulatory obligations. 4.Internal and External Auditing Internal auditing assesses risk management and operational efficacy. It assists management in improving procedures and avoiding fraud or mistakes. a. Our internal audit services provide: Internal control and risk assessment evaluation Review of financial and operational processes Strategies to detect and prevent fraud Recommendations to improve the process. b.Our external audit services include: Financial statement verification Reports on audits for companies in the free zones as well as mainland and offshore companies Assistance during FTA Support for stakeholder and investor reporting needs 5.Financial Statement Preparation Financial statement preparation is essential to any company’s economic health and reporting requirements. In the UAE, well prepared financial statements are vital for compliance with regulatory requirements, taxes, auditors, investor relations, strategic decisions, etc. Income statement: summarizing revenues, expenses, and profits. 6.Accounting Software Implementation and Support The Accountancy Software Support and Implementation solutions are designed to assist you in selecting, setting up, and efficiently using accounting solutions specially designed to meet the needs of your business. Software Selection Guide: We evaluate your business’s size and industry and will provide the best financial program (e.g., QuickBooks, Zoho Books, Xero, Tally, Sage, and other software). System Setup and Customization We can configure your software to ensure VAT compliance charts of accounts, invoices inventory, payroll, and financial reports. Data Transfer: Secure and easy transfer of data already in spreadsheets or older systems. Why Choose a Caviar as a professional accounting partner? As the business environment in the UAE becomes more controlled and competitive, handling your business’s finances is more than basic bookkeeping. 1.Expert Guidance Tailored to Your Business A trusted advisor can provide personalized assistance based on your sector size and objectives, whether you want to improve cash flow, tackle growth, or plan expansion. 2.Access to the Latest Tools and Practices The top firms operate modern accounting software and adhere to international standards such as IFRS.  3.Scalability and Support As your business expands, its accounting needs change. Professional partners can expand their services to help your business at all stages, from beginning to expansion. Accounting Standards in UAE The UAE has grown into an international trade, finance and development hub. Through initiatives such as VAT implementation, growing foreign investment and growing supervision by regulators, businesses must follow transparent and regulated financial procedures. IFRS Global consistency: IFRS is a standard in more than 140 nations, which makes it simpler for multinational companies and investors to comprehend financial statements. Credibility: Follow-up with IFRS improves a firm’s credibility and opens access to global markets and finance. Benefits of Using IFRS in UAE Aligns UAE firms to international economic practices. Improves comparability between global investors and other stakeholders. Improves reliability of statements on financials. Conclusion While the UAE continues to develop to become a major business hub, accounting has taken the center position in ensuring strategic growth. In the wake of tax regulations companies can no longer neglect the importance of good accounting procedures. Collaborating with the right accountants and keeping up-to-date on changes to the regulatory environment will allow you to make informed choices that will help you avoid penalties and boost sustainable growth. At Caviar, we recognize that efficient accounting is the foundation of any business’s success, particularly in a frequently changing and dynamic market such as the UAE. From VAT compliance to tax planning for corporations to accurate economic reporting and strategic research, our customized software for accounting is developed to help keep your business. Other articles Who benefits from vat UAE corporate tax reform 2025 Vat on construction services FAQ What function does accounting play in the development of a company? It assists you in tracking the amount of money you earn and spends and making educated decisions. Make sure you are in compliance with tax laws and prepare for growth in the future. Knowing the corporate tax in UAE is vital for businesses to ensure compliance and improve their financial strategy. Can accounting improve financial decision-making? Yes. With accurate financial information, business owners can make educated decisions regarding pricing, investment expansion, cost-cutting, and expansion strategies. Accounting transforms figures into practical data. What is

Understanding Who Benefits from VAT VAT is primarily intended to be a consumption-driven tax. That is, it is payable by the buyer. However, various stakeholders within the economic system are affected by VAT in multiple ways. Though VAT is usually considered a burden for consumers, it could provide specific benefits to government agencies, businesses, and the general economy. Let’s look at the people who benefit from VAT and the ways they help. What is VAT Value Added Tax ( VAT ) is an indirect tax based on consumption imposed on purchasing services and goods. It is among the most popular types of taxation all over the world. It is credited with its methodical approach to earning revenues for the government and not directly taxing earnings or income. The principle that underlies VAT is that it’s considered at all stages within the supply chain, from manufacturing to the point of sale. The consumer bears the final tax burden. VAT Also called Goods and Services Tax or General Consumption Tax  is a type of consumption tax assessed on the value added in each step of production and distribution. It is an indirect tax, and the cost ultimately falls on the buyer, even though the business pays it throughout the process. Certain items and services can be exempted from Corporate tax in several jurisdictions to minimize the effect on consumers. Caviar Accounting and Bookkeeping L.L.C is a Dubai-based business offering customized accounting and compliance services to companies across the corporate tax in UAE. Employing a group of highly experienced experts, Caviar offers a comprehensive set of solutions that assist businesses of any size to manage their finances efficiently. KEY TAKEAWAYS Value-added tax can be added to the item at any time in the supply chain once its value increases. Taxpayers claim that VAT raises revenue for the government without penalizing wealthy people by imposing higher income taxes. According to some critics of VAT, the tax puts an unnecessary financial burden on lower-income taxpayers. Understanding Value-Added Taxes (VATs) In the current global economic system, taxes are crucial in helping governments finance public services, build infrastructure, and stabilize the economy. VAT is charged at various levels of production. The essence of VAT is the tax based on the value added to services and goods throughout their process, from creation to consumer. Every business within the supply chain, whether an industrial manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, distributor, or service provider — adds a certain amount of value to their item or service. When they sell the product to the next company that is part of their chain, they must collect VAT from the price of sale and distribution.In contrast to direct taxes, such as income tax, that are directly sent to the government by businesses or individuals, VAT is collected and refunded from firms for the government and ultimately paid by the buyer. History of Value-Added Taxes It is believed that the Value-Added Tax (VAT), now an integral part of the modern taxation systems worldwide, was first introduced in the 20th and early 20th centuries. It was created as an alternative to indirect taxation. It was designed to eliminate the efficiencies and disadvantages of conventional taxation of turnover and sales. The VAT system operates across more than 160 countries, contributing substantially to the government’s revenue and providing an open tax system. To understand the current function, it’s essential to study the history of VAT. Industrialized nations, including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), are VAT compliant.  Based on the findings of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) study, any country that adopts VAT is initially afflicted by the adverse effects of lower tax revenue. Over time, the study found that the adoption of VAT, in most instances, increased revenue for the government and was to be effective. VAT can be viewed with a negative meaning across the globe and even hurts its advocates politically. In the Philippines, for instance, Filipino lawmaker Ralph Recto (a main proponent for VAT during the first decade of the 2000s) was removed from his post by voters when the time came to run for reelection. Recto was later reelected and became a supporter of the expansion of VAT. Advantages and Disadvantages of VATs Advantages Broad-based tax VAT is charged at various levels of production and distribution. This makes it a broad-based and steady source of income. Lowers the risk of tax evasion Through its invoice-based model, each participant within the supply chain needs to keep precise records.  Promotes Compliance Therefore, companies can get tax credits for inputs and are incentivized to maintain proper records and file tax returns correctly. Disadvantages Broad-based tax VAT is imposed at different stages of production as well as distribution. This makes it a broad-based and steady source of income. Lowers the risk of tax evasion Through its invoice-based model, each participant within the supply chain needs to keep precise records.  Promotes Compliance Therefore, companies can get tax credits for inputs and are incentivized to maintain proper records and file tax returns correctly. How do you apply for VAT registration in the UAE In the United Arab Emirates, businesses that have an annual turnover exceeding DH375,000 are required to submit an application for VAT registration by the Federal Tax Authority in submitting the VAT registration application. To assist businesses with registration, the tax authority has approved authorized tax professionals to assist companies. The registration deadlines are set through the FTA, and the procedure has been completed before the timeframes. Although companies need to be aware of all obligations related to the registration process for FTA, it is also crucial to know the implications of VAT for their operations and businesses. The following information must be given to the tax authorities during the process of applying for tax credits: Name of the company (applicant) Banking details Contact details Relations with business The declaration of supplies that are tax deductible annually Be aware: The Federal Tax Authority can solicit additional company information when registering. It is suggested that you

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has issued a reminder to Resident Juridical Persons with licences issued in August and September, urging them to complete their Corporate Tax registration by October 31, 2024, to avoid administrative penalties. The FTA’s call is part of its ongoing effort to ensure compliance with the Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on Corporate Tax, which came into effect on March 1, 2024. FTA Decision No. 3 of 2024 specifies timelines for Corporate Tax registration, and failure to comply within these timelines will lead to penalties as per Cabinet Decision No. 75 of 2023. According to the FTA, the deadline for registration depends on the issuance month of the licence, regardless of the year of issuance. For entities with multiple licences, the deadline is determined by the licence with the earliest issuance date. Even in cases where a licence expired before March 1, 2024, the registration deadline remains the same. To simplify the registration process, the FTA has made it accessible through the Emara Tax digital platform, which is available 24/7. The registration involves four main steps and takes approximately 30 minutes. Those already registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) or Excise Tax can complete their Corporate Tax registration through the same platform. Taxable Persons can also register through government service centres or authorised Tax Agents listed on the FTA website.