What is AML and why is it important in the UAE?

AML refers to laws preventing criminals from legitimizing illicit funds. It's essential in the UAE to protect financial systems and comply with global standards.

Who must comply with AML laws in the UAE?

All financial institutions and DNFBPs, including real estate brokers, auditors, and dealers in precious metals.

What are the key UAE AML regulations I should be aware of?

Federal Decree-Law No. (20) of 2018 and Cabinet Decision No. (10) of 2019 are the main AML laws.

What is the role of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)?

The FIU analyzes suspicious activity reports (SARs) and forwards critical cases to relevant authorities.

What is goAML and how does it work?

goAML is the UAE’s FIU reporting platform used to submit suspicious transaction reports (STRs).

Why are real estate companies required to comply with AML?

They are considered DNFBPs due to high exposure to money laundering through property transactions.

How do I register my company with goAML?

Register via the SACM portal and complete goAML setup with business documents.

What documents are needed for goAML registration?

Trade license, Emirates ID, passport copy, authorization letter, and valid email.

What are the consequences of non-compliance?

Penalties from AED 50,000 to AED 1,000,000 depending on the violation.

How often should we update our AML policy?

Review your AML policy annually or when regulations/business processes change.

What is Customer Due Diligence (CDD)?

CDD means verifying a client’s identity and assessing their risk profile.

When is Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) required?

For high-risk clients like PEPs or those from high-risk countries.

What documents are required for verifying clients?

ID, proof of address, trade license, and ownership info for entities.

How do we identify Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs)?

By analyzing the ownership structure and requesting UBO declarations.

What is risk-based customer categorization?

Assigning risk levels (low/medium/high) based on client activity and profile.

What qualifies as a Suspicious Transaction?

Transactions inconsistent with a customer’s known profile or with no clear purpose.

What is a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR)?

A SAR reports suspicious behavior or transactions to the UAE FIU.

How do I file a SAR via goAML?

Log in to goAML, complete the SAR form, and submit it securely.

What is the deadline for submitting a report?

Submit SARs promptly upon identification of suspicious activity.

What happens after a SAR is submitted?

The FIU reviews it and may take further investigative or legal action.

What must an AML policy include?

Risk assessment, CDD, transaction monitoring, reporting, training, and audit processes.

Who should be designated as the Compliance Officer?

A senior employee with authority and AML knowledge to oversee implementation.

How often should we conduct AML training?

At least once a year and when there are regulatory or process changes.

What is an internal AML audit?

A structured review to check AML policy effectiveness and compliance gaps.

How do I create an AML risk assessment?

Identify, assess, and mitigate AML risks across clients, transactions, and processes.

What are sanctions lists and how do I screen against them?

They include names of restricted persons/entities. Screen clients against updated lists.

What is a Politically Exposed Person (PEP)?

Someone in a prominent public role, posing higher AML risk.

Do I have to report all PEP matches?

Not all, but apply EDD. Report if behavior appears suspicious.

How often should I update my screening database?

At least monthly or whenever there are updates to official sanctions/PEP lists.

Can screening be automated?

Yes. AML systems can automate name matching, reducing manual effort and false positives.

Trusted by Leading Companies in the UAE

Leading DNFBPs across the UAE use InfoAML to meet GoAML regulations with ease, reduce risk, and save time.

Betterhomes Real Estate

Trusted by Leading Companies in the UAE

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Commercial Real Estate

Linda's Real Estate

Citicasa Real Estate

Enesco Real Estate

Day to Day Properties

Prime Crown Properties

Al Shatha Real Estate

Aemetria Real Estate

Trust Forever Real Estate

Ace Elite Properties

Smart Neuk Real Estate

Spaces & Beyond Real Estate

Sham Atu Real Estate

Poseidon Real Estate

Bramwell & Partners Real Estate

Recom Real Estate

Neev Realty

Jacob's Real Estate

Araak Real Estate

Crestfield Real Estate

Global Bridge

Peak Trust Global Real Estate

Zazen Property Development

Chalk Real Estate

Al Zaeem Real Estate

9 Properties

Barnes International Realty

CIG Business Services

Go360 Properties

Agora Analitica Real Estate

Atherna Real Estate

Al Zaeem Real Estate