Key Takeaways
● Mandatory goAML registration: All Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) in the UAE, including auditors, accountants, real estate brokers, and company service providers, must register on the goAML portal to report suspicious activities to the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
● Legal compliance obligations: Registration and reporting duties are rooted in Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 and Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2019 — failure to comply can lead to hefty fines and regulatory action.
● STRs / SARs filing: Registered firms must monitor transactions, conduct KYC/CDD, and file Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) or Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) via goAML as part of anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures.
● Ongoing AML framework support: DNFBPs also need internal AML policies, risk assessments, documented procedures, and staff training.
● Fintrack expertise:Fintrack Tax Consultants LLC offers end-to-end goAML support — from registration to compliance documentation, STR/SAR assistance, and strategic advisory tailored to businesses in Dubai, UAE.
What Is goAML and Why It Matters in the UAE
goAML is a specialised online reporting system developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and implemented in the UAE to help authorities detect and combat money laundering and terrorism financing. It enables organisations to submit real-time reports on suspicious transactions and activities directly to the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).
The UAE was one of the first Gulf countries to embrace this sophisticated platform, making it an essential reporting tool for all DNFBPs — covering accountants, auditors, real estate professionals, dealers in precious metals and stones, trust and company service providers, and more.
Registration isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement under UAE AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism) laws, and companies without active goAML access cannot file required reports, potentially putting them in breach of compliance obligations.
UAE goAML Compliance Summary
How goAML Registration Works
goAML registration typically follows two stages:
1. Pre-Registration via SACM
Firms first sign up in the Service Access Control Manager (SACM) system to receive secure credentials and a secret key — often set up with Google Authenticator for multi-factor authentication.
2. Full Portal Registration
Once SACM credentials are obtained, businesses complete their goAML portal registration by submitting:
● A government-issued trade licence
● A company authorisation letter
● Identification documents (passport, Emirates ID, visa) for the nominated compliance officer or reporting officer
Only after both steps are complete can your business log into the goAML system and file required reports.
Core DNFBP Anti-Money-Laundering Obligations
Beyond registration, DNFBPs must implement a comprehensive AML/CFT framework. Key requirements include:
● Customer Due Diligence (CDD) — verify client identity, assess risk, and conduct enhanced checks for high-risk customers (including Politically Exposed Persons).
● Risk-based internal controls — ongoing risk assessments, systems to monitor and flag suspicious transactions, and formal procedures.
● STR/SAR filing excellence — accurate, narrative-rich, timely filings through goAML are crucial; poorly submitted reports can attract scrutiny.
● Record retention — maintain CDD, AML policies, and reporting documents for at least five years.
Consequences of Failing to Comply in Dubai & UAE
UAE AML regulators take compliance seriously. Failing to register or report through goAML can lead to:
● Administrative fines ranging from tens of thousands to millions of AED.
● Business licence suspension or revocation.
● Heightened regulatory scrutiny and operational disruptions.
● Potential reputational damage with clients and partners.
Given the potentially significant consequences, proactive compliance is a must for all DNFBPs.
Why Choose Fintrack Tax Consultants LLC for goAML Support in Dubai
Navigating goAML compliance and UAE AML regulations can be complex — especially if you’re managing other operational priorities. That’s where Fintrack Tax Consultants LLC, based in Dubai, UAE, stands out as your trusted partner.
Here’s how we support your goAML compliance journey:
● Step-by-step goAML registration assistance
● Preparation and submission of STRs/SARs through the official UAE FIU portal
● Custom AML policies and compliance documentation
● Risk assessment and gap analysis aligned with UAE law
● Staff training and regulatory updates
● Ongoing advisory tailored to your business type and risk profile
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is goAML?
goAML is the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit’s online system for registering reporting entities and submitting STRs and SARs.
2. Who must register on goAML in the UAE?
Financial Institutions, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), and all DNFBPs like auditing firms, accounting practices, real estate agents, precious metals dealers and company service providers.
3. Is goAML registration compulsory?
Yes. Registration is mandatory under UAE AML/CFT legislation and regulators like the Ministry of Economy.
4. What documents are needed for goAML registration?
A trade licence, company authorisation letter, and identification documents (passport, Emirates ID, resident visa) for nominated officers.
5. How long does goAML registration take?
Registration stages (SACM + goAML portal) can take a few business days depending on document readiness and supervisory review.
6. Can multiple users be added under one register?
Yes — authorised personnel can be added within the same goAML organisational registration.
7. Do DNFBPs still need AML policies after registering?
Absolutely — goAML is just a reporting platform; firms must also maintain AML/CFT policies and practices.
8. How long must records be kept?
DNFBPs must retain AML records, transaction histories, and reporting documentation for at least five years.
9. Can Fintrack help with AML training?
Yes — we provide tailored training for compliance officers and staff members.
10. What happens if my business is audited?
We prepare your documentation to be audit-ready, easing inspections from free zones or mainland regulators.
11. Is there a penalty for late reporting?
Late or inaccurate filing of STRs/SARs can trigger regulatory scrutiny or enforcement action.
12. Does goAML replace other AML systems?
No — goAML complements internal controls and AML/CFT frameworks; it doesn’t substitute internal compliance practices.
