Your AML compliance obligations in the UAE — fully explained.
"AML Expert handled our goAML registration and full AML policy documentation within two weeks. Their team was professional, responsive and knew exactly what our real estate firm needed. Highly recommended!"
"As a precious metals dealer in Sharjah, AML compliance was overwhelming. AML Expert simplified the entire DPMSR reporting process and trained our staff brilliantly. We are now fully protected and compliant."
"Our fintech startup needed an AML framework from scratch. AML Expert delivered a comprehensive compliance program, goAML registration, and outsourced MLRO service that fully satisfied our VARA requirements."
The goAML system, developed by UNODC, is the UAE FIU's platform for collecting intelligence on suspicious financial transactions. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, all Financial Institutions, DNFBPs, and VASPs must register on goAML and submit regulatory reports.
Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) include Real Estate Agents, Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones, Auditors and Accountants, Lawyers and Notaries, Trust and Company Service Providers, and other high-value transaction businesses.
Entities that fail to register face financial penalties of AED 50,000 to AED 1,000,000. Repeated violations under the 2025 law can result in license suspension, asset freezes, and personal criminal liability for company officers.
Required: (1) Company authorization letter in favour of the applicant, (2) Passport copy, Resident Visa and Emirates ID, and (3) Commercial/Trade License copy. Our team prepares and verifies all documentation before submission.
With proper documentation, goAML registration typically takes 3–7 business days. Our team manages the two-step authentication setup, entity profile creation, and FIU onboarding to ensure swift activation of your goAML account.
No. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, all DNFBPs must comply regardless of size. Small accounting firms, individual brokers, and gold dealers all have the same AML obligations as large financial institutions.
An STR must be filed on goAML when your business identifies a transaction that raises reasonable grounds to suspect money laundering or terrorist financing. Failure to file an STR is a criminal offence under UAE law.
Yes. UAE AML regulations apply to all Free Zone businesses including DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, ADGM, IFZA, RAKEZ, and all others. The Federal AML law applies to every UAE-registered entity regardless of Free Zone jurisdiction.
Our Service CommitmentWe respond to all enquiries within 24 hours. Consultations are strictly confidential and without obligation.
