The UAE has launched its third National Risk Assessment to update the country's understanding of money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation financing risks, bringing 84 competent authorities and the private sector together in the process.
The General Secretariat of the National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering, Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Financing of Proliferation announced the initiative at a media briefing in Abu Dhabi. It was held on the sidelines of the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.
Hamid Saif Al Zaabi, Secretary-General of the National Committee, said the assessment provides a foundation for policymaking and priority setting. He noted that the third cycle draws on accumulated expertise and better data quality and coordination, allowing resources to be directed to the areas of greatest risk. He added that the findings will support risk-based supervision plans, guide law enforcement and help private firms update their internal controls.
Brigadier General Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Ahmad of the Federal Criminal Police said the assessment covers 21 predicate offences and more than 20 criminal typologies. It weighs the scale of proceeds, links to organised crime, the complexity of offences and international connections, rather than case numbers alone.
Dr. Talal Al Tunaiji said the proliferation financing team is examining risks tied to evasion of targeted financial sanctions, including the use of intermediaries, dual-use goods and complex corporate structures.
The assessment follows five stages, ending with inputs for the 2028 National Strategy and National Action Plan. It also covers virtual assets, beneficial ownership transparency and asset recovery.
The first assessment was completed in 2018, and the second was approved in 2024. The latter fed into the 2024-2027 National Strategy, which includes 11 strategic objectives and more than 250 initiatives.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
