goAML Registration & AML Compliance in UAE 2025 – Process, Services & Penalties
What is goAML and how does it work in the UAE?
goAML is an advanced anti-money laundering software platform developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to support Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) worldwide. In the UAE, it is used by the Ministry of Economy to collect, analyze, and share suspicious transaction reports from businesses in high-risk sectors. The system ensures compliance with AML laws, strengthens financial transparency, and helps combat money laundering and terrorism financing.
goAML Registration Process in UAE
The goAML registration process in UAE is mandatory for DNFBPs and is overseen by the Financial Intelligence Unit UAE (FIU UAE) to monitor and report suspicious transactions.
Entities classified as Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) are required to register, including:
Real estate brokers and companies
Dealers in gold, precious metals, and stones
Law firms, notaries, and other legal service providers
Accountants and audit firms
Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs)
Any business entity subject to AML requirements in the UAE
Under Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 and Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2019, these entities are legally obligated to register and consistently report suspicious activities.
goAML Services Covered
goAML Registration
End-to-end assistance with new entity registration, including SACM account setup, Google Authenticator configuration, and FIU approval.
goAML Amendment
Support for updating company details, trade license changes, compliance officer replacements, or other official record modifications on the goAML portal.
goAML Assessment and Registration
Guidance on FIU compliance checks, documentation preparation, and meeting AML reporting standards before and after registration.
goAML Assessment and Evaluation
Ongoing monitoring and periodic evaluations to ensure your business remains fully AML-compliant and avoids costly fines.
Documents Required
Authorization letter
Trade license copy
Emirates ID & passport of compliance officer
Google Authenticator setup
Penalties
AED 50,000 – AED 1M for non-registration
Up to AED 5M in severe cases
Risk of business suspension
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Topics
Process Overview for goAML Registration in the UAE Emirates
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but businesses must keep their details updated and continue submitting reports regularly as required.
Basic business license, trade license copy, owner/partner details, and authorized signatory details. (Exact requirements may vary depending on business activity).
Real estate, precious metals & stones, legal consultancy, accounting, auditing, and virtual asset services.
No, it is separate. VAT and Corporate Tax are about taxation, while goAML is about financial crime prevention.
The UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) along with local licensing authorities in each Emirate.
While businesses can attempt registration, many face rejections due to incorrect filings. Professional assistance ensures smooth approval and compliance.
Businesses report suspicious transactions (STRs) and suspicious activity reports (SARs) to the FIU via the portal.
Yes, the FIU rules apply nationwide, but local authorities (like DET in Dubai or DED in Abu Dhabi) may have slightly different compliance processes.
