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Premier banking names, tax-free expatriate lifestyles, year-round sunshine and high demand for qualified accountants. What’s not to like about working in the Gulf?

With Dubai already a major financial centre, Bahrain building a massive waterfront financial ‘city’ and Qatar’s strengthening links with global financial markets, the Middle East is proving a happy hunting ground for the ‘culturally curious’ City accountant.

“The region is rushing to catch up with global investment, real estate and tourism,” says Tracy Sinclair, director of recruiter Witan Jardine’s qualified division. “Investment management, retail banking and commercial banking are all thriving, while the Big 4 are all there, providing audit and compliance services.”

If you have financial services or blue chip exposure, opportunities include financial control, analysis and reporting, as well as audit, corporate finance and treasury: “It’s a highly competitive market, with people of City bank calibre attracted to the lifestyle and work exposure,” says Sinclair.

Salaries – tax-free for foreign nationals – compare favourably with the UK, says Kevin O’Donnell of Think Global Recruitment: “Living costs are generally less expensive, although accommodation is rising. But the overall package should allow you to enjoy a high standard of living.”

Benefits look good too: “Recently qualified accountants can expect to earn £55-75k,” says Sinclair. “Packages typically include accommodation, travel and car allowances.”

And don’t be overly concerned about security: “Proximity to Iraq is an issue for some – but the UAE is extremely safe, with low crime rates,” says O’Donnell. “People are usually pleasantly surprised by what they find there.”