Why Your AML/CFT Alignment Matters for the MOE’s 2026 Mandatory Survey
The regulatory requirements in the United Arab Emirates are shifting into the feet of business owners. At the beginning of 2026, the Ministry of Economy (MOE) has launched a Mandatory AML/CFT Survey, which is covering detailed assessment aiming to evaluate the compliance level of the private sector. This isn't just a normal, simple questionnaire; it plays a high-level screening tool that will determine your company’s risk profile for coming years.
By the 5th Round Mutual Evaluation with FATF, which is commencing in the UAE this year, the MOE’s pressure to align a "highly effective" regime is very crucial. As a result, the tolerance for non-alignment has reached zero. For any Designated Non-Financial Business and Profession (DNFBP) or mainland entity, understanding why this survey is important and how to comply with it matters now, given the difference between survival of business and the severe administrative sanctions.
The New Legal Pillar: Federal Decree-Law No. (10) of 2025
The 2026 survey requirement is mainly rooted through the Federal Decree-Law No. (10) of 2025, which is the continuation of the previous 2018 framework. This landmark legislation introduces a more aggressive stance on financial crime, explicitly adding Proliferation Financing (PF) as a third core pillar alongside with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism (CFT).
This survey is the primary method of MOE’s for verifying that businesses is up to date with their internal systems to match this new law. It actually tests whether you have integrated "Reasonable Knowledge" standards, where ever you can be held liable not just for what things you knew, but for what you should have known under the proper due diligence.
To learn more about Why Your AML/CFT Alignment Matters for the MOE’s 2026 Mandatory Survey, book a free consultation with one of the Flyingcolour team advisors.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on our understanding of current tax laws and regulations. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice, consultation, or representation. The author and publisher are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information contained in this blog.