UAE Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance Reference 2026 — Free Zone Company Obligations
UAE free zone companies have anti-money laundering obligations. Here is the 2026 AML compliance reference guide.
In this guide:
UAE AML Legal Framework
- Federal AML Law: UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 on Anti-Money Laundering (and Counter Terrorism Financing)
- FATF: UAE is a FATF member; 2022-2024 period saw UAE exit FATF grey list after significant AML reforms
- Regulators: CBUAE for financial institutions; Ministry of Economy for DNFBPs
Who Are DNFBPs (Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions)?
- Real estate agents: Buying/selling real estate on behalf of clients
- Precious metals dealers: Gold, diamonds, and other precious metals trading
- Lawyers and accountants: When handling client money or certain transactions
- Trust and company service providers: Forming companies, providing registered offices
AML Obligations for Free Zone Companies
- Know Your Customer (KYC): Verify identity of customers and counterparties
- Suspicious Transaction Reporting: Report suspicious transactions to UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)
- Record keeping: Maintain AML records for 5 years
- DNFBP registration: DNFBPs must register with Ministry of Economy AML portal
Which Free Zone Companies Have Lower AML Burden
- Standard service companies (consulting, IT, marketing): Lower AML obligation; standard KYC of suppliers and clients is sufficient
- Financial services and regulated activities: Full AML program required; consult compliance specialist