The European Union has taken the UAE off its list of countries considered high-risk for money laundering and terrorist financing. This move was welcomed by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) as a major achievement for the country’s financial sector and global reputation. The decision reflects the UAE’s efforts to strengthen financial regulations and fight financial crime.
His Excellency Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the CBUAE and Chairman of the National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations, welcomed the decision, calling it a clear reflection of the nation's forward-looking vision and effective governance.
The UAE’s removal from the list follows years of comprehensive reforms, stricter compliance measures, and collaboration between government regulators, financial institutions, and private sector stakeholders. Financial entities and regulatory authorities have played key roles in driving this success, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to maintaining a robust, transparent, and secure financial ecosystem.
Officials have also credited this achievement to the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Higher Committee Overseeing the National Strategy on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism, for the successful diplomatic efforts that led to this development.