How does the UAE National Risk Assessment 2024 rate terrorist financing risk?
The UAE ML/TF Risk Assessment 2024 includes a dedicated terrorist financing (TF) assessment covering the UAE context, cross-border exposure and the non-profit sector. The assessment examines how the country’s geographical position, trade and financial openness could be exploited for TF, while recognising the extensive controls, sanctions implementation and interagency cooperation in place.
Non-profit organisations are analysed as a specific area of focus. At the assessment stage, a subset of licensed NPOs was identified as more exposed to TF risk under the FATF definition, and these were classified into sub-categories such as charitable, humanitarian, health, education and environmental. Regulated entities dealing with higher-risk NPO or cross-border customers should apply proportionate enhanced measures and monitor for TF red flags.
Legal Reference (UAE):
· Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, Article 19(1)(e) — obligation to implement targeted financial sanctions instructions immediately.
· Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, Article 18 — reporting suspicious transactions, including suspected terrorist financing, to the Unit.
For more details, consult the full text of the UAE NRA 2024 or seek guidance from your AML compliance officer.