Saudi Arabia Job Interview Preparation
Tell me about yourself.
Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Rishvan KP, and I am a Certified
Management Accountant (CMA) with a Master's in Commerce. I recently worked at Sahal
Accounting Services in Saudi Arabia, where I handled the finance and accounting functions for
multiple UAE-based clients. My role covered financial reporting, budgeting, VAT compliance, and
auditing support. I managed the bookkeeping for five clients and prepared VAT reports for eight
clients monthly. I am proficient in accounting software like Zoho Books, QuickBooks, and Tally, and
I'm skilled in Excel. I am currently in Saudi Arabia and actively looking for a role where I can
continue contributing my skills while gaining further exposure.
Explain your experience with VAT in the UAE.
I was responsible for ensuring VAT compliance for eight clients on a monthly basis. I verified VAT
eligibility on transactions, classified them correctly, and submitted VAT returns to the Federal Tax
Authority (FTA) in accordance with UAE VAT laws. I also handled VAT registrations, amendments,
and deregistrations. Additionally, I managed import declarations and tracked GCC VAT payable
balances to ensure accurate reporting and timely payments.
What type of financial statements have you prepared?
I have prepared financial statements including the profit and loss account, balance sheet, and cash
flow records. I regularly performed six-month comparative analysis to support decision-making and
prepared sales reports to identify revenue trends and provide actionable insights to management.
What are your key responsibilities in bookkeeping?
I managed bookkeeping for five clients each month, ensuring accurate recording of purchase bills,
expenses, and payroll entries. I reconciled bank statements, verified invoices, handled accounts
receivable and payable, and maintained the general ledger to ensure reliable financial tracking. I
also oversaw petty cash and adjusted inventory records.
Tell me about your experience with budgeting and forecasting.
I was involved in preparing budgets and financial forecasts to assist management in strategic
planning. I supported variance analysis by comparing actual results against budgets, which helped
businesses control costs and plan effectively.
What software are you proficient in?
I am proficient in Zoho Books, QuickBooks, Tally, and Microsoft Excel. I also have working
knowledge of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Workday. I used these tools regularly for
bookkeeping, financial reporting, VAT submissions, and data analysis.
Can you explain the process of bank reconciliation?
Bank reconciliation involves comparing the company's internal financial records with the bank
statements to ensure both records match. I imported bank statements, identified discrepancies,
corrected timing differences or recording errors, and ensured the cash book balance was accurate
and up-to-date.
How did you support auditing processes?
I conducted internal reviews of financial records to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance. I
assisted businesses in preparing for external audits by organizing supporting documentation,
verifying internal controls, and improving audit outcomes by addressing potential issues in advance.
What challenges did you face in client management and how did you handle them?
Managing multiple clients required effective time management and prioritization. At times, conflicting
deadlines arose, but I handled these by carefully planning my schedule, maintaining constant
communication with clients, and using tracking tools to ensure timely submissions and accurate
work delivery.
Why do you want to work with us?
I am looking for a professional environment where I can continue to grow and apply my skills in
financial management, VAT compliance, and auditing. I am particularly interested in working with
your company because of your strong reputation for quality and growth opportunities, which align
with my career aspirations.
General Accounting Technical Questions
Questions and answers on accounting basics, journal entries, golden rules of accounting, and bank
reconciliation were provided in detail.
UAE VAT Technical Questions
Questions covered UAE VAT rates, zero-rated and exempt supplies, VAT filing process,
out-of-scope transactions, and VAT on imports.
Saudi Arabia Tax System Overview
Detailed explanation of Zakat, Corporate Income Tax, VAT, Withholding Tax, Excise Tax, and
Customs Duties applicable in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Tax Interview Questions
Covered questions and answers on Zakat, corporate income tax, VAT rate, reverse charge
mechanism, zero-rated vs exempt supplies, withholding tax, ZATCA's role, VAT filing requirements,
late filing penalties, and common tax compliance challenges.
