Anti Money Laundering (AML)
Anti Money Laundering (AML)
The United Arab Emirates has taken strong measures to combat financial crime by implementing comprehensive Anti Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regulations. These laws, enforced under Federal Decree-Law No. (20) of 2018 and related Cabinet Decisions, are aligned with global compliance frameworks set by FATF and other international bodies. As a result, businesses operating in Dubai and across the UAE—particularly in sectors like real estate, trading, consulting, precious metals, legal services, and corporate structuring—must now adhere to robust Anti Money Laundering (AML) compliance standards.
At Almalia Consulting FZCO, we make Anti Money Laundering (AML) compliance straightforward and stress-free. Our team assists businesses in assessing their obligations, preparing the required documentation, implementing strong internal procedures, and submitting accurate filings to UAE authorities. Whether your company is registering with the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (goAML), maintaining records for regulatory inspections, or filing Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs), we guide you through the entire process with clarity and care.
What Documents Are Required for Anti Money Laundering Compliance?
Valid Trade License and MOA – Your trade license and Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA) prove your company’s legal standing in the UAE and form the foundation of your AML compliance profile.
Identification Documents – You must provide passport copies, Emirates IDs, and visa pages (for UAE residents) of all shareholders, directors, and appointed compliance officers to verify their roles and identities.
Organizational Chart – An up-to-date organizational chart is essential to show the internal structure of your business and highlight decision-makers involved in financial and operational oversight.
AML Policy and Procedures Manual – A company-specific Anti Money Laundering (AML) policy must be documented, detailing how your business prevents, detects, and reports suspicious activity.
Risk Assessment Report – This internal report analyzes your company’s exposure to money laundering risks based on industry, clientele, geography, and transaction types, and is key for demonstrating a proactive compliance stance.
KYC and Customer Due Diligence Records – Your business must maintain clear evidence of Know Your Customer (KYC) practices, verifying client identities and ensuring risk-based monitoring of transactions.
Transaction Monitoring and STR Logs – If applicable, you should keep internal logs of suspicious transaction investigations and any Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) submitted to authorities.
goAML Platform Registration – Registration on the UAE Central Bank’s goAML system is mandatory for designated businesses, enabling them to report suspicious activities directly to the Financial Intelligence Unit.
How We Help You Comply with Anti Money Laundering Regulations
Free AML Compliance Review
We begin with a detailed review of your business activities, customer base, and transaction patterns. This allows us to identify gaps and assess your obligations under the UAE’s Anti Money Laundering (AML) laws.
Tailored AML Policy Development
Next, we create customized AML/CFT policies and procedures that align with your business model. These cover everything from risk assessments and staff responsibilities to transaction monitoring and record-keeping requirements.
goAML Registration and Reporting Setup
To ensure full legal compliance, we handle your company’s registration on the Central Bank’s goAML platform. This enables you to report any suspicious activity as required under UAE regulations.
Training and Internal Controls
We conduct employee training sessions to ensure your team understands how to detect, respond to, and escalate suspicious transactions. Simultaneously, we establish effective internal controls and compliance protocols tailored to your operations.
Ongoing Monitoring and Advisory Support
Compliance does not stop at registration. Therefore, we assist you in maintaining your AML systems, updating policies as laws evolve, keeping records in order, and preparing for inspections or audits from regulatory authorities.
Why Partner with Almalia Consulting FZCO for Anti Money Laundering Compliance?
In-Depth Knowledge of AML Regulations in the UAE
Our team has successfully supported companies across a wide range of sectors—including real estate, trading, precious metals, consultancy, and legal services—in designing and implementing effective Anti Money Laundering (AML) programs.
Risk-Based, Tailored Solutions
Unlike one-size-fits-all templates, we create compliance frameworks based on your specific business activities, risk exposure, and operational scale. This ensures your AML system is both efficient and regulatory-compliant.
Full-Service Regulatory Support
We manage your complete compliance cycle—from initial assessment to goAML registration, policy creation, training, and reporting—while ensuring your business meets UAE Central Bank and Ministry of Economy standards.
Confidential and Professional Approach
We handle all corporate and client data with utmost confidentiality and integrity, in full alignment with UAE data protection laws. Your sensitive business information is treated with the care it deserves.
Long-Term Compliance Partnership
AML compliance is an ongoing process. That’s why we provide continuous support—updating your policies, preparing for regulatory audits, and maintaining compliance as laws evolve and your business grows.
Frequently Asked Question
Who must comply with UAE AML laws?
Businesses involved in finance, real estate, precious metals trading, consultancy, legal, auditing, and corporate services are required to implement AML and CFT measures.
What does AML compliance include?
AML compliance involves goAML registration, developing AML/CFT policies, conducting KYC, monitoring transactions, and reporting any suspicious activity.
What are the penalties for non-compliance?
Non-compliance may result in substantial administrative fines, suspension of your trade license, freezing of bank accounts, or legal action including criminal charges.
Is AML compliance a one-time requirement?
No. AML compliance requires continuous monitoring, regular risk assessments, staff training, and updating policies based on changes in your business or the law.
Can Almalia Consulting register us on goAML?
Absolutely. We manage the entire goAML registration process and ensure your business is properly set up to meet its reporting obligations.
How do we get started?
Simply contact Almalia Consulting FZCO. We’ll assess your current AML compliance status, develop a full strategy, register you with the authorities, and ensure your business is fully aligned with Anti Money Laundering (AML) laws in the UAE.