The big picture:
The UAE has enacted Federal Decree Law No. 10 of 2025, a major step to enhance its anti–money laundering (AML)and counter–terrorist financing (CFT) framework. The law aligns the country’s financial regulations with global compliance standards and reinforces its role as a trusted international financial hub.
What’s happening:
The new law targets money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing, aiming to close regulatory gaps and increase coordination between banks, regulators, and enforcement bodies. It also modernizes reporting procedures and penalties to meet Financial Action Task Force (FATF) benchmarks.
Who’s involved:
The UAE government, Central Bank of the UAE, and financial services regulators jointly developed the law, with direct implications for banks, businesses, and investors operating across the Emirates.
By the numbers:
- Law introduced: October 2025
- FATF compliance: Rated “compliant or largely compliant” with 40/39 FATF recommendations (June 2023)
Why it matters:
This move strengthens financial integrity, boosts investor confidence, and shields the UAE economy from illicit financial flows and reputational risks. It also reflects the country’s long-term strategy to position itself as a regional benchmark in transparency and regulatory excellence.
