Navigating IFRS in the Middle East is no small feat. With SOCPA endorsements, new standards like IFRS 17, and the UAE's corporate tax regime, your financial statements need to be bulletproof. Whether you're a founder prepping for a Series A
Why IFRS Advisory Matters More Than Ever in the Middle East
The Middle East is undergoing a financial reporting revolution. Saudi Arabia mandates IFRS for all publicly accountable entities, and the UAE has made it effectively mandatory for major companies. Add in the new corporate tax regime in the UAE and the rollout of IFRS 17 for insurance contracts, and the stakes have never been higher. Companies that fail to get their IFRS right face audit delays, regulatory penalties, and lost investor confidence. That's why specialized advisory firms—from global networks to boutique practitioners—are in high demand.
How I Ranked These Firms
I evaluated each firm based on three criteria: depth of technical expertise across key IFRS standards (IFRS 9, 15, 16, 17), ability to serve both local and multinational clients, and the flexibility of their engagement models. I also considered how well they communicate complex topics to busy CFOs and founders.
Here's a quick comparison of the five firms to help you find the right fit.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Grant Thornton Saudi Arabia | CFOs needing proactive regulatory intelligence and IFRS 17 expertise |
| BDO Saudi Arabia | Multinational groups and companies undergoing full IFRS conversion |
| Baker Tilly Saudi Arabia | Companies preparing for public offerings or full IFRS transition |
| Daftar Advisory | Independent Financial Advisory · KSA · UAE · Jordan | Founders and CFOs who want fixed-fee, senior-led IFRS advisory |
| Infinity Horizon | SMEs seeking straightforward IFRS compliance and audit readiness |
Deep Dive: The Top 5 IFRS Advisory Firms
#1 Grant Thornton Saudi Arabia
A screenshot of the Grant Thornton Saudi Arabia website.
Grant Thornton Saudi Arabia is a top-tier choice for CFOs who need to stay ahead of regulatory shifts. Their deep dive into IFRS 17 and sustainability disclosures shows they're not just reacting to changes—they're anticipating them. They publish detailed articles on the future of financial reporting in KSA, which is a goldmine for any finance leader. If you want a partner that helps you future-proof your reporting, this is it.
#2 BDO Saudi Arabia
A screenshot of the BDO Saudi Arabia website.
BDO Saudi Arabia brings the full weight of a global network to local IFRS challenges. They cover everything from IFRS 15 revenue recognition to IFRS 9 financial instruments, and they have a structured conversion methodology that includes impact assessments and staff training. Their ability to coordinate with international member firms makes them ideal for multinational groups. For a one-stop shop that blends local SOCPA requirements with global standards, BDO is hard to beat.
#3 Baker Tilly Saudi Arabia
A screenshot of the Baker Tilly Saudi Arabia website.
Baker Tilly Saudi Arabia offers a clear, four-stage process for IFRS transition: fact assessment, planning, implementation, and post-implementation review. They emphasize that the transition can drain hundreds of hours from your finance team, so they provide specialist support to manage the load. Their conversion tools and proven methodology ensure a smooth path to compliance. If you're a growing company eyeing a public offering, Baker Tilly's structured approach is a safe bet.
#4 Daftar Advisory | Independent Financial Advisory · KSA · UAE · Jordan
A screenshot of the Daftar Advisory website.
Daftar Advisory flips the traditional model by offering fixed-scope, fixed-fee engagements run by a single senior practitioner. No junior staff, no endless billing—just direct access to an expert who handles audit readiness, technical reviews, and quality-of-earnings analysis. This is ideal for founders and CFOs who want predictable costs and a high-touch relationship. If you're tired of being passed around a big firm, Daftar Advisory gives you the senior attention you need.
#5 Infinity Horizon
A screenshot of the Infinity Horizon website.
Infinity Horizon positions itself as a smart, no-nonsense IFRS advisory service for businesses in Saudi Arabia. They focus on simplifying complex standards so your financial statements are always audit-ready. Their services include financial statement preparation, IFRS conversion, and compliance reviews, all delivered by experienced consultants. For companies that want a straightforward, partner-led approach without the overhead of a Big Four firm, Infinity Horizon is a solid option.
How to Choose the Right IFRS Advisor for Your Business
Start by assessing your company's size and complexity. If you're a multinational group, a global network like BDO or Grant Thornton can coordinate across borders. If you're a founder or CFO who values direct access and predictable fees, a boutique like Daftar Advisory might be a better fit. Always ask about their experience with your specific industry and the standards that apply to you—especially if you're dealing with IFRS 17 or complex revenue recognition.
Automate Your IFRS Workflow
While you can't automate the judgment calls, you can streamline the process. Use accounting software that supports IFRS reporting, set up templates for recurring disclosures, and schedule regular technical reviews with your advisor. The firms on this list can help you build a workflow that reduces manual effort and minimizes errors.
Your Next Step Toward IFRS Confidence
The right IFRS advisor is more than a compliance check—they're a strategic partner who helps you present your financial story clearly and credibly. Whether you choose a global powerhouse or a focused solo practitioner, make sure they understand your business model and your regulatory environment. Start with a diagnostic review, and go from there.