AAT posts higher enrollees in Accounting Qualifications in 2016 to prepare for upcoming VAT imposition in Gulf

• Training proves a major success for GCC students

In the wake of the impending imposition of value-added tax (VAT) in the GCC, the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), a globally recognized player in the accounting and finance sector, has announced an uptake in the number of students taking its Accounting Qualifications in the region. Providing training for a huge range of accounting and finance roles, the Qualifications include comprehensive Indirect Tax, Personal Tax, and Business Tax elements.

Approximately 290 students enrolled in AAT’s Accounting Qualifications during 2016 to date, compared to 180 students in the whole of 2015. The climb was recorded as many regional businesses gear up for the upcoming introduction of a VAT rate in the GCC starting January 1, 2018. VAT imposition constitutes an important policy reform, aiming to help GCC governments achieve medium- to long-term social and economic policy goals as well as reduce their reliance on hydrocarbon revenues.

AAT’s wide-ranging Qualifications provide students with an in-depth understanding of relevant VAT regulations and documentations as required in the region. By taking the course, prospective enrollees will build and reinforce their knowledge of regional and global VAT registration requirements, and gain moderns skills for a successful overall career in the finance and accounting industry. Three training providers in the UAE currently offer AAT courses among 11 across the whole of the Middle East. The complete list is available at www.aat.org.uk/middleeast.

Rob Alder, Head of Business Development, AAT, said: “The tax element of the AAT Accounting Qualifications is proving popular with students, especially in the region where preparations for smooth VAT implementation are on full blast. As this is the first time that such a system is being introduced in the region, stakeholders need to gain clear understanding of this intricate and complex framework.”

“We aim to significantly contribute to the process through our Accounting Qualifications, which will equip our prospective students with modern skills, expertise, and competencies necessary to be successful in this field. The Accounting Qualifications improve the capabilities of any enterprise’s finance team, keeping its business one step ahead of its market competitor,” Alder added.

AAT offers various courses and certifications for individuals who want to become tax accountants or tax managers. With over 130,000 members in more than 90 countries, the association, which awards around 90 per cent of all vocational qualifications in accounting, provides practical workplace qualifications for finance staff across the world.

AAT’s universally respected and internationally recognized courses are highly supported by professional accounting bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. It supports and develops its members through more than 500-AAT approved training providers across the world.