How to Become a SAP FICO Professional in Dubai?

Dubai has established itself as a global financial hub and one of the world's leading business centres. 

Khaleej Times reports that ‘Dubai ranked the best place in the world to live, work, invest and visit’. With the rapid digitisation of finance and accounting processes across industries, the demand for qualified SAP FICO professionals has seen tremendous growth in the Emirates.

SAP FICO, which stands for SAP FI (Financial Accounting) and SAP CO (Controlling), is amongst the most widely implemented ERP solutions globally with a central role in facilitating accounting, financial reporting and compliance. Professionals who are well-versed in SAP FICO modules are highly valued by banks, insurance companies, manufacturing firms, oil & gas establishments, and more for streamlining their financial operations. According to Glassdoor, The average salary of a Sap Fico Consultant is AED 15,500 per month in the Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

If you wish to join the ranks of distinguished SAP FICO consultants and seize the abundant career prospects in Dubai, here are the 7 essential steps to get started:

Steps to Achieve a Rewarding Career in SAP FICO 

Below are the steps that we can follow to have a rewarding career in the SAP FICO domain. Check it out: 

Step 1: Gain a Basic Understanding of Finance and Accounting

A solid foundation in financial and accounting concepts is crucial for anyone aspiring to be a successful SAP FICO Professional in Dubai. While not mandatory, gaining familiarity with basic bookkeeping principles such as debits/credits, charts of accounts, journal entries, trial balance, financial statements and so on will help set the right context before learning the specialised ERP modules.  

Obtaining a SAP FICO Certification is important for a career advancement in financial management. One can pursue this foundational knowledge through various resources - for example, enrolling in introductory accounting courses either online or in training institutes. Reading up on the fundamentals of accounting cycles, financial analysis, working capital management etc. through textbooks and e-learning resources is also an efficient self-study method. For working professionals, getting exposed to accounting functions in their current role can offer practical on-the-job exposure. 

With the UAE's increasing focus on digitally skilled finance professionals, candidates who complement their SAP FICO Course with a sturdy financial background will be at an advantage to capitalise on flourishing opportunities. 

Step 2: Learn SAP Basics and Modules

Before specializing in the FICO segment, orienting oneself with the overall SAP ecosystem, its enterprise-scale applications and underlying architecture helps set the stage for an enriched learning experience. Studying materials covering fundamental concepts such as ERP solutions, SAP history and modules, ABAP programming basics, system navigation, security features and more available publicly or through training partners lays the groundwork. 

Likewise, understanding the typical project lifecycle from design to development and support sheds light on professional roles. With Dubai emerging as a smart business hub, versatile SAP specialists are in demand; hence widening knowledge beyond FICO itself with modules like SAP MM, SAP SD, SAP HCM etc. during initial skilling enhances career mobility. Interactive online courses or Virtual SAP training are efficient options. The investment made at this stage pays off through enriched problem-solving abilities during the implementation stages. 

Read on: Top SAP Certification

Step 3: Pursue SAP FICO Certification

Accreditation serves as objective proof of competence, appealing greatly to employers. Clearing the examination after a formal SAP FICO Course demonstrates aptitude. Authorized training partners holding PBC Practitioner or higher status must be selected to ensure global recognition. 

Comprehensive, skills-focused programs covering all exam topics boost chances of success. Hands-on practice using live/mock systems sharpens technical proficiency. The importance of SAP certification is multifaceted, impacting both individuals and organizations. It serves as a powerful validation of expertise, propelling career growth, enhancing project success, and driving overall business efficiency.

Dubai houses international institutions with quality training infrastructure including virtual classrooms and on-demand e-learning, supporting working professionals to balance careers and certifications conveniently and fully leverage the market's job prospects.

Step 4: Gain Hands-on Experience

To establish oneself confidently as a job-ready SAP FICO Professional in Dubai, ERP courses including SAP and Oracle can provide industry-relevant skills, a better understanding of business processes, improved problem-solving skills, and increased career opportunities.  The UAE industry being technology-driven offers multiple avenues - internships during studies, associate roles post-training, volunteering with user groups, freelance projects etc. Even assisting in live projects delivers exposure beyond theory. 

FICO specialists get opportunities to understand enterprise financial procedures, client requirements gathering, system configurations, report developments and more - strengthening soft skills as well. Documenting experiences helps accredit abilities. By pursuing such experiential learning opportunities concurrently or after an in-depth SAP FICO Course, candidates gain a competitive edge over equally qualified counterparts without practical expertise.

Also check out: SAP MM Professional Job Role and Salary

Final Thoughts

With the UAE attaining global prominence as a digital hub, organizations are rapidly shifting to streamlined, technology-enabled methods of managing finances. This transforms the accounting landscape and spurs constant demand for knowledgeable SAP FICO professionals capable of architecting such transformation. Leveraging these steps will crystallize the roadmap to transforming into an in-demand SAP FICO specialist with impeccable skills, right position yourself for top opportunities in Dubai's finance-technology landscape. If you are thinking of getting started with it, then you can consider connecting with the experts at Edoxi. Reach out now!