Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Services in the UAE

Anti Money Laundering (AML) compliance is no longer optional for businesses in the UAE. With the introduction of Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, the regulatory environment has become more stringent than ever. UAE companies must have proper AML systems in place to avoid penalties, business disruptions, and reputational damage.

At Shuraa Tax, we provide end-to-end AML compliance services in the UAE designed to safeguard your organisation from the risks of money laundering, terrorist financing, and the newly legislated proliferation financing. As a leading anti-money laundering consultant in the UAE, we ensure your business meets the highest international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

What is Anti Money Laundering (AML) Compliance?

AML compliance is the process of implementing internal controls that help businesses identify and prevent suspicious financial activities. It includes:

• Identifying and verifying customers through KYC procedures
• Monitoring transactions and business relationships
• Conducting risk assessments
• Reporting suspicious activities when required
• Maintaining proper AML documentation and records

Effective AML compliance is not a one-time task; it is an ongoing obligation that requires regular updates, training, and monitoring.

AML Regulatory Framework in the UAE

The UAE has introduced a strong legal framework to combat financial crimes. AML compliance is primarily governed by:

• Federal Decree-Law No. (10) of 2025: The newest law replacing the 2018 decree, introducing "Proliferation Financing" as a standalone offence.
• Cabinet Resolution No. (10) of 2019: Providing implementing regulations for AML and CFT.
• The National Strategy (2024–2027): A roadmap aimed at strengthening the UAE's financial transparency and removing the nation from international scrutiny lists.
• The goAML Portal: A unified reporting platform developed by the UNODC, mandatory for all DNFBPs and Financial Institutions.

Who Needs AML Compliance Services in the UAE?

AML compliance is mandatory for businesses classified as Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) and regulated entities, including:

1. Real Estate Developers & Agents: Especially those involved in high-value cash transactions.
2. Dealers in Precious Metals & Stones: Including the gold and diamond trade.
3. Independent Accountants & Auditors: Ensuring all financial reporting is transparent.
4. Legal Professionals & Notaries: Handling client funds or property transfers.
5. Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs): Entities dealing with cryptocurrency and digital tokens.

Without a dedicated anti-money laundering consultant in the UAE, businesses risk unintentional involvement in illicit activities. Compliance ensures you maintain access to the banking system, protect your brand reputation, and contribute to the UAE’s standing as a global financial hub.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance Services at Shuraa Tax

Shuraa Tax offers end-to-end anti-money laundering compliance services in the UAE, tailored to your industry, risk level, and regulatory obligations. Our services include:

AML & EOCN Registration Assistance:

Our team handles your AML and EOCN registrations with the relevant authorities, ensuring accurate submissions and timely approvals without compliance delays.

KYC Onboarding & Customer Due Diligence:

We set up structured KYC procedures to verify customer identities, assess risk levels, and maintain proper records as required under AML regulations.

Sanctions & Adverse Media Screening:

We conduct thorough screening against global sanctions lists and adverse media to help identify high-risk individuals or entities early.

AML Training & Staff Awareness Programs:

We provide practical AML training sessions to ensure your team understands compliance responsibilities, red flags, and reporting requirements.

AML Software Support & Guidance:

Our experts guide you in selecting, setting up, and using AML software to streamline monitoring, screening, and compliance reporting.

Regulatory Inspection & Audit Assistance:

We prepare your business for AML inspections by reviewing records, addressing gaps, and supporting you during regulatory audits.

Ongoing AML Advisory & Compliance Support:

AML compliance is continuous. We offer ongoing advisory support to help you stay updated with regulatory changes and maintain long-term compliance.

AML Policy Drafting & Implementation:

We create a customised AML policy based on your business activity and risk profile, ensuring it fully aligns with UAE AML laws and regulatory expectations.

Shuraa Tax – AML Compliance Packages

To meet different compliance needs, Shuraa Tax offers structured AML packages designed for businesses at various stages.

Documents Required for AML Compliance in the UAE

The documents required may vary depending on your business activity but typically include:

• Valid trade license
• Shareholder and management passport copies
• Emirates ID (if applicable)
• Company ownership structure
• Business activity and operational details
• Customer KYC documentation
• AML policy and risk assessment reports
• Transaction records and compliance logs

Penalties for AML Non-Compliance in the UAE

The UAE authorities have significantly increased the cost of negligence. Under the new 2025 framework, penalties include:

• Financial Fines: Ranging from AED 50,000 to AED millions for legal entities.
• Personal Liability: Managers can now face personal criminal liability and imprisonment for up to 10 years if they were aware of illicit activities.
• Administrative Actions: Public "naming and shaming," suspension of trade licenses, and restriction of business activities.
• Asset Freezing: The FIU now has the power to freeze funds for up to 30 days without prior notice.

Importance of AML Compliance for UAE Businesses

1. Avoid Heavy Fines and Regulatory Penalties

Proper AML compliance helps businesses meet all legal requirements, reducing the risk of costly fines, penalties, or enforcement actions by UAE regulators.

2. Protect Business Licenses and Operational Continuity

Non-compliance can lead to license suspension or cancellation. Strong AML systems help ensure uninterrupted operations and long-term business stability.

3. Build Trust with Banks, Investors, and Authorities

Banks and financial institutions prefer working with AML-compliant businesses. A strong compliance framework improves credibility and supports smoother banking relationships.

4. Prevent Reputational Damage

Being linked to financial crimes (even unintentionally) can harm your brand. AML compliance protects your business reputation and public trust.

5. Strengthen Internal Governance and Risk Management

AML controls improve internal processes, enhance transparency, and help businesses identify and manage financial and operational risks more effectively.

Why Businesses Trust Shuraa for AML Compliance in the UAE

When it comes to AML compliance, having the right expert by your side makes all the difference. Here’s why businesses across the UAE trust Shuraa Tax.

Experienced AML & Compliance Specialists:

Our team has hands-on experience handling AML requirements across multiple industries, ensuring accurate and regulation-ready compliance.

Strong Understanding of UAE AML Regulations:

We stay updated with UAE AML laws, regulatory changes, and authority guidelines, helping your business remain compliant at all times.

Industry-Specific AML Solutions:

Every business faces different AML risks. We tailor our compliance approach based on your activity, size, and risk exposure.

End-to-End Compliance Support:

From AML registration and policy drafting to training and inspections, we manage the entire compliance process under one roof.

Transparent Pricing with No Hidden Charges:

Our AML compliance packages are clearly structured, so you always know what you’re paying for, no surprises later.

Ongoing Advisory & Updates:

AML compliance is continuous. We support you even after setup, keeping you informed of regulatory updates.

Shuraa Tax – Other Taxation & Financial Services in the UAE

Beyond anti-money laundering compliance services in the UAE, Shuraa Tax offers a full suite of taxation, accounting, and other compliance services, making us a one-stop financial partner for businesses of all sizes and sectors.

• VAT Registration Services
• VAT Return Filing Services
• Corporate Tax Registration
• Corporate Tax Return Filing
• Corporate Tax Advisory & Planning
• Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) Assistance
• Excise Tax Registration & Filing
• Accounting & Bookkeeping Services
• MIS Reporting
• Payroll Services & WPS Compliance
• Internal Audit Services

Need Help with AML Compliance in the UAE?

AML regulations can be complex, but staying compliant doesn’t have to be. With Shuraa Tax, you get expert support, clear guidance, and reliable compliance solutions tailored to your business.

Commonly Asked Questions