How long must UAE real estate brokers keep transaction records?
UAE real estate brokers and agents must keep all records, documents and data relating to their transactions for at least five years. The period runs from the date the transaction is completed or the business relationship with the customer ends. Records must be kept in a form that allows them to be produced promptly when the Financial Intelligence Unit, the Ministry of Economy or other competent authorities request them.
The records to retain include customer identification, beneficial ownership information, contracts, invoices, receipts, source of funds evidence, and copies of any goAML reports such as REARs and STRs. The Ministry of Economy has specifically reminded real estate brokers and agents, including those in free zones, to maintain their records for no less than five years.
Legal Reference (UAE):
· Cabinet Resolution No. 134 of 2025, Article 25 — records of transactions must be retained for at least five years and made available on request.
· MoE Circular No. 5/2022 — requires real estate brokers to keep documents relating to reported transactions for a minimum of five years.
For more details, consult the full text of Cabinet Resolution No. 134 of 2025 or seek guidance from your AML compliance officer.