Federal Decree by Law Regarding Anti-Money Laundering

The law establishes a Financial Intelligence Unit to collect and analyze financial data, and requires certain businesses to report suspicious transactions. It also provides for international cooperation to combat these crimes.

Practice alert

Who should read this

Financial institutions should immediately review this law

Directly affected

banksfinancial institutionsdesignated non-financial businesses and professions

Key facts

  • Issued on 30 September 2025
  • Effective on 14 October 2025
  • Establishes a Financial Intelligence Unit
  • Requires reporting of suspicious transactions
  • Provides for international cooperation

What this means for you

Businesses must report suspicious transactions and comply with new regulations to prevent money laundering and financing of terrorism.

Directly affected: banks, financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions

Effective date: 14 October 2025

Action items

  1. Review the new law and understand the requirements
  2. Develop a compliance plan to report suspicious transactions
  3. Train staff on the new regulations
  4. Establish procedures for international cooperation

Litigation impact

This law may impact pending or future litigation related to money laundering or financing of terrorism, and businesses should be prepared to comply with the new regulations.

Source

UAE Legislation Portal — Real Estate & Land (Sector 39)
https://uaelegislation.gov.ae/en/legislations/3314
Original-source date: 2025 · Captured: 2026-05-26T10:28+00:00Z

Verified against UAE Legislation Portal — Real Estate & Land (Sector 39) ·
Show full English translation / verbatim source text
The provided text is already in English

This update is generated from a public regulator publication and reviewed under the firm's automated editorial quality gate. General information only — it does not constitute legal advice. For advice on a specific matter, please contact us. Last updated: 26 May 2026.

Related guides

Need advice on banking & finance issues?

Brief our Banking & Finance team in three minutes — same business-day partner response.

Speak to our Banking & Finance team →

Frequently asked questions

What does “Federal Decree by Law Regarding Anti-Money Laundering” change?

The law establishes a Financial Intelligence Unit to collect and analyze financial data, and requires certain businesses to report suspicious transactions. It also provides for international cooperation to combat these crimes.

Who is affected by this update?

banks, financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions

When does it take effect?

The update takes effect on 14 October 2025.

What should affected businesses do now?

Review the new law and understand the requirements. Develop a compliance plan to report suspicious transactions. Train staff on the new regulations. Establish procedures for international cooperation.