Acca playbook highlights accountants’ role in accelerating sme digital transformation across the uae and gcc

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Acca playbook highlights accountants’ role in accelerating sme digital transformation across the uae and gcc

A new global study by ACCA reveals that accountants are emerging as key drivers of digital transformation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as digital adoption accelerates across the UAE and wider GCC region. The findings are detailed in ACCA’s latest publication, Digital Pathways Playbook: Accountants as Leaders in Digital Adoption for SMEs.

The report arrives at a crucial time for the UAE’s SME sector, which now comprises more than 557,000 businesses, according to the Ministry of Economy. With SMEs forming a central pillar of the nation’s economic diversification strategy, demand is rising for finance professionals equipped with strong digital and AI capabilities. ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2025 further reflects this shift, showing that over half of finance professionals globally view accountancy as a stepping stone to entrepreneurship, with digital readiness and AI skills seen as essential for future success.

Based on insights from 1,026 finance professionals across 100 markets, the playbook outlines six stages of digital maturity—from paper-driven processes to fully AI-enabled operations. It provides practical pathways SMEs can follow to adopt technology sustainably and boost efficiency.

The findings highlight ambitious expectations within the profession: although only 4% of organisations today operate at advanced automation levels, 41% believe they will reach this stage within three years. However, challenges persist, with cost (62%), skills gaps (46%) and time constraints (32%) emerging as the most common barriers to transformation.

ACCA notes that SMEs which actively engage in digital adoption often see concerns about cost and complexity diminish as their internal capabilities strengthen. The playbook includes case studies from Malaysia, Africa, the UK and the UAE, showcasing how accountants and SME leaders are implementing AI-driven tools, integrating systems and using technology to support growth and resilience.

“Accountants sit at the heart of business data and decision-making,” said Aleksandra Zaronina-Kirillova, head of SME in ACCA’s policy and insights team. “Their understanding of process integrity, financial impact and governance makes them uniquely placed to guide SMEs through digital transformation with confidence and care.”

Developed through extensive global feedback and professional expertise, the playbook provides actionable guidance for accountants looking to serve as digital navigators for SMEs. It also features a Support Mechanisms Directory, offering an overview of funding options, training programmes and advisory resources available worldwide to help SMEs accelerate digital adoption securely and effectively.