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Real estate companies operating in Dubai are among the most frequently audited sectors in terms of AML regulations due to high-value transactions and international customer portfolios. Customer identification (KYC), transaction monitoring, and suspicious transaction reporting obligations exist in real estate purchase, sale, and leasing processes.
To ensure AML compliance, real estate companies must register with the goAML system, establish internal policies, implement risk-based customer assessment procedures, and set up regular reporting processes. Off-plan sales, high-value cash transactions, and foreign investor transactions are considered higher risk categories from an AML perspective.

Real estate companies operating in Dubai are among the most frequently monitored sectors in terms of AML regulations due to high-value transactions and international client portfolios. In property sales, purchases, and leasing processes, there are obligations related to Know Your Customer (KYC), transaction monitoring, and suspicious transaction reporting.
Within the scope of AML compliance, real estate companies are required to establish goAML system registration, internal AML policies, risk-based customer due diligence procedures, and regular reporting mechanisms. In particular, off-plan sales, high-value cash transactions, and transactions involving foreign investors are considered higher risk categories from an AML perspective.
Companies engaged in the trade of gold, diamonds, and other precious metals and stones fall under the DNFBP category according to UAE regulations and are considered high-risk sectors. These businesses are required to ensure transaction traceability and implement a strong compliance framework to mitigate money laundering risks.
In this context, companies must implement customer identity verification procedures, maintain transaction records, submit suspicious transaction reports (STR), and formalize written AML compliance policies. Cash-intensive operations and international trade activities are subject to enhanced regulatory scrutiny.
Firms providing accounting, financial advisory, and audit services carry significant AML responsibilities as they directly influence clients’ financial operations. In the UAE, companies operating in this field are legally required to complete AML registration and establish a formal compliance program.
This process includes customer risk classification, financial transaction analysis, internal control mechanisms, and the appointment of a compliance officer. In addition, regular training and internal audit procedures are essential to ensure the sustainability of AML compliance.
Corporate service providers involved in company formation, corporate structuring, and trust or foundation-related activities are directly subject to AML regulations, as they establish and manage legal entities on behalf of clients. These firms are required to identify Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBO) and implement comprehensive compliance procedures.
Improper client onboarding processes or incomplete documentation checks may lead to serious administrative penalties and licensing risks. Therefore, establishing a comprehensive compliance infrastructure alongside the AML application process is essential.
goAML is the official AML reporting and suspicious transaction monitoring system used by the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). Registration in the goAML system and reporting through this platform are mandatory for most companies falling under the DNFBP category.
Through this system, companies submit Suspicious Transaction Reports (STR), Suspicious Activity Reports (SAR), and other compliance-related notifications to the relevant authorities. Without goAML registration, it is not possible to fully meet AML regulatory obligations.
AML application processes in Dubai and across the UAE consist of multiple stages, including regulatory assessment, DNFBP scope determination, goAML registration, risk assessment documentation, and the preparation of internal compliance policies. Since requirements vary by sector, a standard application approach is often insufficient.
With professional AML consultancy, a compliance strategy tailored to your business activities can be established, official application processes can be managed accurately, and potential penalty risks can be minimized. A properly structured AML compliance system not only fulfills legal obligations but also strengthens your company’s international credibility and corporate reputation.
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