Performing Agreed-Upon Procedures in the UAE
When auditors are hired for a specific test or review, they agree on the engagements to be performed. Agreed-upon procedures are often conducted during special situations such as acquisitions, lender requests for financial reviews, or landlord-tenant financial assessments. AARMAK offers the best agreed-upon procedure services in Dubai to handle various business needs efficiently.
Scope of an Agreed-Upon Procedure Engagement
In an AUP engagement, auditors may perform procedures similar to an audit but on a limited scope. These procedures focus on identifying specific issues requiring immediate attention or addressing specific actions agreed upon in the engagement. Unlike a full audit, the auditor does not issue an opinion but acts as a fact-finder.
The auditor prepares a report detailing the procedures performed and the findings. It is up to the report’s users to draw their conclusions from the findings. Agreed-upon procedures can target areas such as financial data, internal controls, compliance, or specific financial statements.
Examples of Agreed-Upon Procedure Services
Agreed-upon procedures cover both financial and non-financial information. Common examples include:
- Due diligence for mergers and acquisitions
- Verification of cash balances
- Security balance checks
- Tax provision reviews
- Accounts receivable/payable process reviews
- Special loan portfolio reviews
- Internal control management system evaluations
- Royalty agreement compliance
- Employer compliance/payroll audits
- Purchasing department compliance checks
What’s Involved in an Agreed-Upon Procedure?
During an AUP engagement, the auditor provides a factual report without expressing assurance. The findings are left for the users to interpret. The AUP process often includes:
- Verifying the trial balance of accounts payable against the general ledger
- Comparing lists of top suppliers and amounts owed to corresponding figures in the trial balance
- Reviewing supplier statements or confirming balances with suppliers and comparing them to the trial balance. If discrepancies are found, the auditor examines reconciliations from the entity.
Advantages of Agreed-Upon Procedures
Agreed-upon procedures offer businesses several advantages in the UAE. These procedures can be performed at any time during the year and provide reliable information for third parties. Businesses also have the flexibility to select procedures that suit their needs, making the process cost-effective.
Agreed-upon procedure engagements are particularly beneficial in the following circumstances:
- Due diligence for mergers and acquisitions
- Investigating potential misrepresentation of financial results
- Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
- Lenders or franchisors seeking clarity on financials or internal controls
- Assessing the progress of a company’s turnaround plan
Why Choose AARMAK for Agreed-Upon Procedure Services in Dubai, UAE?
Agreed-upon procedure services are invaluable for businesses of all sizes, including large entities and SMEs. Even companies not required to undergo a full audit can benefit from AUPs for various purposes, such as meeting bank or vendor requirements.
AARMAK offers expert Agreed-Upon Procedure services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses in Dubai and the UAE. Our team of highly qualified audit professionals provides specialized financial reporting and factual findings to help companies evaluate their financial records effectively. With AARMAK, you can be confident in receiving accurate and reliable audit-related services that support your business goals.