The UAE has introduced a new federal Anti-Money Laundering law and updated Executive Regulations, significantly strengthening national controls against money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing. Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025 is now in force, and the new Executive Regulations under Cabinet Resolution No. 134 of 2025 will apply from 14 December 2025.

Key Changes You Need To Be Aware Of:

The new framework expands the scope of regulated entities (including DNFBPs, VASPs, financial institutions, NPOs and high-risk sectors such as online gaming), refines core AML definitions, and elevates requirements for customer due diligence, ongoing monitoring and beneficial ownership transparency. It also increases senior management accountability and strengthens investigative and enforcement powers, introducing stricter penalties and higher regulatory and criminal exposure for non-compliance.

If you are:

• A financial institution
• A DNFBP (e.g., real estate brokers, dealers in precious metals/stones, auditors, accountants, legal/corporate service providers)
• A Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP)
• A Non-Profit Organisation (NPO)
• A business in a high-risk sector (including online gaming or similar digital platforms),

These changes apply to you, and immediate preparation is essential.

With these enhanced obligations, now is the ideal time to ensure your AML framework is strong, risk-based and fully aligned with the new UAE expectations.

How Can MBG Support You?

We are helping businesses across the UAE transition smoothly by translating the new rules into practical, proportionate controls. Our AML services include:

1. Fast-track gap assessments against the new regime and Executive Regulations.
2. Updates to risk assessments, policies, procedures, customer due diligence and monitoring processes.
3. Strengthening governance, senior management roles, documentation and training to meet supervisory expectations.

To understand how the new AML regime affects your business—or to schedule an AML “health check”—please contact us