UAE AML Compliance Checklist for DNFBPs

Who Needs AML Compliance?

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018, DNFBPs in the UAE — including accountants, auditors, real estate agents, dealers in precious metals and stones, and corporate service providers — must implement comprehensive AML/CFT programmes.

The Essential Checklist

• Appoint a designated compliance officer
• Conduct an enterprise-wide risk assessment
• Develop written AML/CFT policies and procedures
• Implement Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes
• Establish transaction monitoring procedures
• Register on the goAML portal
• File Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) as required
• Conduct ongoing staff training
• Maintain records for at least 5 years
• Conduct regular independent audits of the programme

Common Gaps We Find

The most frequent deficiencies are inadequate risk assessments, missing or outdated policies, and lack of documented training. Regulators increasingly conduct surprise inspections, making proactive compliance essential.

Get Compliant

Fair Tax International designs and implements complete AML/CFT programmes. From risk assessment to staff training, we ensure you're inspection-ready. Many of our AML clients also rely on us for corporate tax compliance. Contact us for a free consultation.