UAE Clamps Down on Money Laundering Offenders

Anti-Money Laundering Crackdown in UAE: Heavy Fines for Rule-Breaking Businesses

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism in the United Arab Emirates announced that in the first half of 2025, fines totaling over 42 million dirhams were imposed on private enterprises that breached anti-money laundering regulations. Targeted inspections revealed 1,063 violations in non-financial sectors, including precious metals and gemstone trading, real estate brokerage, corporate service providers, and auditing firms.

Largest Fines in Precious Metal Trading

During the inspections, 473 violations were found among companies dealing in precious metals and gemstones, resulting in fines totaling 20 million dirhams. This sector receives special attention from the UAE’s regulatory system as such trade is particularly risky in terms of money laundering and terrorist financing.

Real Estate and Corporate Service Providers Not Spared

Real estate agents were fined nearly 18.5 million dirhams for 495 violations. The corporate service providers and auditors were involved in 95 violations, leading to fines of more than 4 million dirhams. These figures indicate that non-compliance with anti-money laundering regulations is a widespread issue, not limited to a single sector.

Tighter Controls and Technical Indicators

According to the Ministry, the identification of violations was based on various technical indicators and regulatory benchmarks. The goal is for companies to implement proper screening practices, better assess risks, and rectify deficiencies in internal control systems.

Ongoing Oversight

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism emphasized that on-site and desk-based inspections will continue, encouraging businesses to use the time to strengthen internal regulations and avoid future penalties.

UAE's Goal: A Reliable Economic Hub

The authorities have a clear aim: the country seeks to further strengthen its position as a reliable, internationally compliant economic hub. Transparency, regulation, and strict enforcement of AML (anti-money laundering) rules play a crucial role in this.

(The article is sourced from a Ministry of Economy and Tourism statement.)