Baker Tilly International announces a new member firm in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), strengthening the global network’s presence in this high growth, strategically important market through the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). 

The firm, headquartered in Dubai and operating under an audit licence issued by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the independent regulator of financial services conducted in or from Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), brings extensive specialisation in financial services and reinforces Baker Tilly’s commitment to the region. Leveraging its world-class infrastructure, independent regulatory environment, and position as a leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), DIFC offers the ideal platform for Baker Tilly to expand its reach and serve clients with complex, cross-border needs. Clients will benefit from a combination of deep local knowledge along with access to international best practices and specialist expertise tailored to their specific business challenges.

Saad Maniar, CEO of Baker Tilly in the UAE, said: “Joining Baker Tilly International is a significant milestone for our firm. In an era of rapid change and heightened client expectations, establishing our presence in DIFC and aligning ourselves with a world class regulatory environment and strong global network will enable us to deliver even greater value to our clients. We are excited about the opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration and innovation that being part of DIFC’s vibrant ecosystem will bring.”

Francesca Lagerberg, CEO of Baker Tilly International, said: “MEA is an important region for the future growth of the Baker Tilly network globally. The expertise and reputation for quality demonstrated by our UAE firm aligns perfectly with our core values. The strategic location within DIFC not only strengthens our capabilities in the region but also enhances our ability to support clients with cross-border needs through seamless, fully integrated solutions, leveraging DIFC’s global connectivity.”

Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, commented: “We are pleased to welcome Baker Tilly to DIFC’s growing ecosystem of international professional services firms. As a global top ten professional services provider, their presence reflects the continued confidence leading global networks have in DIFC’s mature regulatory environment and deep client base. We look forward to supporting Baker Tilly as they grow their regional and international footprint from the region’s leading financial centre.”

Last year, Chakib Zaari, founder of Baker Tilly in Morocco, was named Regional Chair for MEA and Gagik Gyulbudaghyan was appointed Regional Director, highlighting the importance of the region for the network. Together they work with member firms to drive international business growth and develop the network’s services and capabilities across the region.