Prominent UAE accounting and advisory firms unite to meet evolving business demands

In a landmark move to address the evolving needs of the UAE’s dynamic business landscape, leading accounting and advisory firms have formed a strategic alliance. This collaboration unites Ahmad Alagbari Chartered Accountants, two associated audit firms led by Syed Asif Zaman, and Firm Harbour Aegis, an alliance of three advisory firms headed by Salman Sajid.

The newly-formed entity positions itself as a key player in the mid-tier market, offering high-quality, cost-effective services across a broad spectrum of financial and advisory domains, including audit, assurance, corporate taxation, VAT compliance, and more.

A timely solution for a transforming industry

The alliance emerges at a pivotal moment for the UAE’s financial services sector, which is undergoing significant transformation due to the introduction of VAT, corporate taxation, and enhanced Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. These changes have created a clear gap between the premium-priced services of global firms and the demand for affordable, reliable solutions—a gap this alliance seeks to bridge.

“The UAE is the MENA region’s second-largest market for assurance and advisory services,” said Syed Asif Zaman, Managing Partner and CEO of Ahmad Alagbari Chartered Accountants and Middle East Council member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). “This alliance leverages collective expertise and resources to deliver innovative, tailored solutions that address critical market needs.”

Comprehensive capabilities and integrated services

The alliance consolidates a wide range of capabilities, including:

Auditing and assurance
Corporate taxation and VAT compliance
Business process outsourcing and IT-enabled services
Corporate advisory

Founding members also bring expertise in deal-making, governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), emerging technologies, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Future plans include integrating firms specializing in asset valuation and legal services, solidifying the alliance as a one-stop solution for businesses.

Commitment to regional growth

“This alliance demonstrates our commitment to empowering businesses with seamless, integrated solutions,” said Salman Sajid, Co-Founder and CEO of Firm Harbour Aegis. “With projected revenues exceeding USD 15 million by 2025, we are confident in making a lasting impact on the regional market.”

Supported by a team of 150 professionals, the alliance aims to expand its workforce by 10–15% over the coming years to meet growing demand. Plans are also in place to extend services internationally and collaborate with government entities, such as the Dubai Land Department, to enhance regional influence.

Ambitious growth and future vision

The integration of alliance members is expected to be completed by Q2 2025. With an ambitious goal to double or triple revenues within five years through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, the alliance is poised to reshape the UAE’s mid-tier financial services sector.