UAE businesses, especially those in regulated sectors, must comply with UAE AML (Anti-Money Laundering) requirements. Here is the complete 2025 guide.
UAE AML Legal Framework
The UAE AML framework comprises: Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 (the AML Law), Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2019 (implementing regulations), and UAE Central Bank, SCA, and CBUAE sector-specific guidance. The UAE is a member of FATF (Financial Action Task Force), the international AML standard-setter. UAE came off the FATF grey list in February 2024 — a significant improvement reflecting the UAE’s substantial AML reforms since 2022.
Who Must Comply with UAE AML?
All UAE companies are subject to some level of AML obligation. However, full AML programme requirements apply specifically to: financial institutions (banks, exchange houses, payment providers), DNFBPs (Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions): real estate agents, accounting and auditing firms, legal advisors handling client funds, company formation agents, dealers in precious metals and stones, and trust and company service providers. If your business is a DNFBP: you must register with UAE goAML portal, implement a formal AML compliance programme, conduct Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), appoint an AML Compliance Officer, file Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), and maintain transaction records for 5+ years. Non-DNFBP businesses: must comply with general obligations (KYC of customers and suppliers, no dealings with sanctioned parties, no cash transactions above AED 55,000).