The Center of Excellence for Applied Research and Training (CERT), the commercial arm of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) will collaborate with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to develop specialized corporate tax content for taxation agents, when the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Under the agreement, the parties will also provide professional training to taxation agents, operating in the corporate tax field, while also enhancing taxation knowledge in the UAE.

The agreement was signed by H.E. Khalid Al Bustani, FTA Director-General, and Dr. Mohamed Baka, CEO of CERT, in the presence of Dr. Faisal Al Ayyan, HCT President & CEO, and a number of officials representing both entities.

H.E. Khalid Al Bustani, said that the MOU strengthens joint cooperation frameworks to enhance tax awareness and promote continuous learning, in line with FTA's plans to maintain a conducive tax environment that guarantees compliance, in accordance with the highest standards of governance and transparency.

He noted this partnership would open up new avenues for cooperation between the parties to develop the competencies of taxation professionals, through the creation of specialized corporate income tax training and a professional certification program.

His Excellency emphasized FTA’s keenness to strengthen its strategic partnerships with government, private sectors, and educational institutions, highlighting the vital role they all play in the successful implementation of the taxation system. He pointed out the MOU will enable sharing of best practices and experiences, with the aim of fostering growth and contributing to UAE's vision towards greater reliance on the knowledge economy. It will also provide access to effective tools for talent assessment and development and career advancement, through a comprehensive approach that includes learning and development initiatives.

The FTA Director-General added that the partnership reflects the commitment of the FTA and CERT to the Government’s 50-year plan to harness the talent and creativity of the nation’s youth and work to build a brighter future for the next generation.

Dr. Mohamed Baka, CEO of CERT, said this cooperation comes in line with tax developments and training needs, especially after the introduction of a soon-to-be implemented federal tax for companies and businesses.

He added the joint cooperation would support the provision of specialized training programs for taxation officials, such as tax declaration requirements and the calculation of corporate and business taxes. The training would help companies and businesses achieve optimal efficiency in the implementation of tax regulations, Dr. Baka noted.

Dr. Baka said that CERT, with its considerable experience in the field of training and qualifying national cadres, is proud to be working alongside the FTA, empowering those working in the field to embrace their new roles, while helping companies to adjust to the new financial regulations.

In addition, he said the partnership aims to meet the training and development goals of institutions and employers, by keeping abreast of new developments, building effective partnerships and creating specialized, bespoke training programs, meeting the institutions’ needs and development objectives. Professionals who successfully complete the program will obtain an accredited certificate in corporate tax.

Dr. Baka noted that the tax field today is one of the country’s vital areas that will contribute to enhancing the UAE's position as a leading center for business and investment, as well as accelerating development processes and achieving strategic objectives.

The training program, including knowledge, skills, and training requirements, is currently being compiled by CERT and the FTA, and upon finalization a call for enrollment by interested parties will be made.