Dubai – In a major boost to international business confidence, the European Union has removed the UAE from its list of high-risk countries for anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT).
The decision, approved by the European Parliament, is expected to ease financial compliance, reduce transaction delays, and improve access for UAE-based firms operating across Europe. It follows the UAE’s removal from the FATF grey list in 2024 and signals growing trust in the country’s regulatory reforms.
“This is independent recognition of the UAE’s global financial role,” said Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, UAE Minister of State.
Crackdown That Built Confidence
Over Dh350 million in AML fines have been imposed by the UAE Central Bank in recent months, targeting exchange houses, insurance firms, and even branches of foreign banks. These efforts are part of a broader 2024–2027 National AML Strategy, including tighter supervision of high-risk sectors like real estate and gold trading.
According to the IMF, delisting from such risk registers can lead to capital inflows of up to 7.6% of GDP, signaling positive prospects for foreign direct investment and cross-border finance.
The move aligns with wider EU-UAE collaboration, including the launch of free trade negotiations, and enhances the UAE’s standing as a trusted financial hub in the Middle East.
