What is the Notification Alert System (NAS) and who must register for it?
The Notification Alert System is the mechanism operated by the UAE Executive Office for Control and Non-Proliferation through which reporting entities receive automated alerts about changes to the sanctions lists. These include new designations, re-designations, updates, and de-listings issued by the UN Security Council, the Sanctions Committees, or the UAE Cabinet. Registering ensures an entity learns of changes promptly, which is essential to meeting the obligation to screen and freeze without delay.
Registration is not optional. All financial institutions, designated non-financial businesses and professions, and virtual asset service providers must register on the Executive Office website to receive these notifications. Registration also supports the broader reporting chain, because entities that detect matches must submit fund freeze and partial name match reports through the relevant channels. Failing to register leaves an entity unable to react to list changes and exposed to sanctions for non-compliance.
Legal Reference (UAE):
· Cabinet Resolution No. 74 of 2020, Article 21(1) - requires FIs and DNFBPs to register on the Executive Office website to receive designation, re-designation, update, and de-listing notifications.
· Federal Decree-Law No. 10 of 2025, Article 19(e) - requires entities to implement forthwith the instructions of the Executive Office on targeted financial sanctions.
For more details, consult the full text of Cabinet Resolution No. 74 of 2020 or seek guidance from your AML compliance officer.