AML Compliance
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Overview
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) contributes to global anti money laundering efforts and combating financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), and strives to fully implement the standards set by the International Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Money laundering is defined as any financial or banking transaction aimed at concealing or changing the identity of illegally obtained funds by passing them through the financial and banking system in order to make them appear as originating from legitimate sources, and then re-pumping and investing them in a legal manner contrary to their real nature.
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Legislation, Rules and Regulations
The Law
Federal Decree by Law No. (20) of 2018 on Anti Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organizations
Executive Regulation
Cabinet Decision No. (10) of 2019 Concerning the implementing regulation of decree law no. (20) of 2018 on anti- money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism and illegal organizations
Decisions
Cabinet Resolution No. 109 of 2023 Regarding the Regulation of Procedures for the Ultimate Beneficiary
Decisions
Cabinet Resolution No 53 of 2021 Concerning the Administration Penalties
DNFBPs Guidance
Guidance available for the Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (Auditors, Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones, Real Estate, Trust and Company Service Providers) on Ministry of Economy portal
Decisions
Cabinet Resolution No (74) of 2020 regarding the Terrorism Lists Regulation and Implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions on the Suppression and Combatting of Terrorism, Terrorist Financing, Countering the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and its Financing, and Relevant Resolutions.
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SRTI Park Accredited Audit Firms
As part of our ongoing commitment to compliance with the directives established by the Ministry of Economy and the UAE National Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting Financing of Terrorism and Financing of Illegal Organizations Committee, the Compliance Department has implemented stringent measures to adhere to regulatory guidelines and standards strictly.
As part of this initiative, compliance has authorized specific companies to submit their audit reports for renewal and compliance.
Only the following firms have been granted authorization, and SRTI Park only accepts their audit reports for the renewal of the companies registered at SRTI Park, starting from 15 January 2024.
JR ACCOUNTING & TAX CONSULTANCY FZC | info@jrconsultants.ae | +971567863226
MSI ALNOMAN & RAVI | solutions@msiauditors.com | +971556460108
Al Suwaidi Auditing LLC | info@alsuwaidiaudit.ae | +971553721156 | +9715055742641
MSI ALNOMAN & RAVI | solutions@msiauditors.com | +971556460108
HKMS Auditing of Accounts LLC | sagar@hkmsgroup.com | +971547786787
Saji George Yohannan Chartered Accountants | sajigeorge@sgyca.com | +971557397058
Al Shuruq Auditing and Accounting | thomas@alshuruqauditing.com | +971505992310
MBK Auditing LLC | rajeev@mbkauditing.com | +971505599427
Abdullah Al Marzooqi Chartered Accountants L.L.C | info@amca.ae | +97142408784 | +971524378292
HJS Auditing of accounts L.L.C | info@hjsaudit.com| +971507413857
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FAQ
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What is AML and why is it important for businesses in the UAE?
+ -AML (Anti-Money Laundering) refers to a set of laws and regulations designed to prevent the illegal generation and movement of money. In the UAE, complying with AML is mandatory to ensure transparency and alignment with international financial standards.
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Who needs to comply with AML regulations?
+ -All businesses operating under the jurisdiction of the UAE — including those in Free Zones like SRTI Park — must comply with AML requirements, especially Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) such as auditors, real estate agents, and corporate service providers.
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What are the key AML laws and regulations in the UAE?
+ -The primary regulations include:
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Federal Decree Law No. (20) of 2018 on AML and CFT
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Cabinet Decision No. (10) of 2019 (Executive Regulation)
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Cabinet Resolution No. (74) of 2020 on UN Sanctions Implementation
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Additional AML-related circulars issued by the Ministry of Economy
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What is GoAML and why must I register?
+ -GoAML is the official platform launched by the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) for reporting suspicious financial activities. All obligated entities must register to ensure proper reporting and monitoring.
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What is the role of SRTI Park in AML compliance?
+ -SRTI Park supports its community by aligning with national compliance efforts. Only approved auditing firms may submit AML reports for license renewals of companies registered at the Park.
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How do I know if I am a DNFBP and subject to special AML rules?
+ -If your business is involved in sectors like auditing, real estate, legal services, or trade in precious metals and stones, you are likely classified as a DNFBP and must follow additional compliance steps.
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What happens if a company fails to comply with AML obligations?
+ -Non-compliance can lead to administrative penalties, including fines, suspension of licenses, or referral to law enforcement agencies.
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Do I need to appoint a compliance officer for AML?
+ -Yes, entities must designate an AML compliance officer responsible for overseeing implementation, training, and communication with regulators.
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Where can I find support or resources for AML compliance?
+ -The UAE Ministry of Economy provides extensive guidance and updates. You can also reach out to SRTI Park’s Compliance Department or consult one of the Park’s accredited audit firms.