The UAE has made significant strides in enhancing its framework for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of arms. The latest report from the National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and Financing Terrorism and Proliferation officially reveals the country’s performance indicators for the year 2025. This comprehensive analysis, approved by the Supreme Committee overseeing the National Strategy for Combating Money Laundering and Financing Terrorism, underscores the UAE’s commitment to advancing its proactive approach to mitigate various financial threats.
Results Show Strategic Progress
In a recent meeting, Khaled Mohammed Balama, the Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE and Chairman of the National Committee, reported the impressive results of the country’s efforts. He noted that these achievements reflect the ongoing implementation of the National Strategy for Combating Money Laundering, designed for the period from 2024 to 2027. “These results are a clear manifestation of the UAE’s steadfast commitment to creating a secure and stable global financial environment, underpinned by a robust regulatory system capable of preemptively addressing challenges and efficiently combating financial crimes,” he stated.
Balama emphasized that the notable improvements in performance indicators for 2025 stem from substantial legislative and regulatory updates, including Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025. This framework has reinforced governance structures and inter-agency collaboration, enhancing the UAE’s financial and economic competitiveness on the global stage.
International Collaboration and Regulatory Enhancements
Deputy Chairman and Secretary-General of the National Committee, Hamid Saif Al Zaabi, elaborated on the importance of international partnerships in bolstering the UAE’s capabilities. He noted that 15 expert teams met with financial action task force (FATF) member states, facilitating a robust exchange of technical insights and best practices. “The results achieved reflect the growing impact of international partnerships and the ongoing commitment to enhance national preparedness and regulatory effectiveness to combat financial crimes,” Al Zaabi stated.
The report highlights the escalating demand for legal cooperation, with mutual legal assistance requests rising by 4.9% from 492 to 516, and extradition requests increasing by 25.3% from 446 to 559. Additionally, precautionary freezing orders surged by 46.7% from 15 to 22, with the total value of frozen assets reaching 150 million AED.
Financial Transparency and Crime Prevention
The heightened focus on financial institutions has led to extensive inspections and significant penalties. A total of 781 inspections on financial institutions and virtual asset service providers were conducted, resulting in fines totaling 384 million AED. Suspicious transaction reports surged by 28%, reaching nearly 80,000 reports, with banks accounting for 82.2% of these.
Thanks to rigorous measures, the UAE achieved a remarkable 91.7% improvement in the transparency of beneficial ownership data, significantly decreasing the number of entities lacking this information. Furthermore, inspections based on risk factors increased by 54.2%, and inquiries related to beneficial ownership rose by 43.3%.
Success in Countering Terrorism Financing
In tackling the financing of terrorism, the report details a 62% increase in suspicious reports related to terrorism financing, with 256 reports filed. This reflects heightened vigilance in identifying potential threats, demonstrating the UAE’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding national and global security.
Overall, the performance indicators for 2025 present a comprehensive assessment of the UAE’s advanced capabilities in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of arms, showcasing the maturity and evolution of its national framework. The data indicates a growing synergy in international cooperation, enhancing regulatory responses, and promoting financial transparency, all essential in maintaining a robust defense against financial crimes.