This week, a new federal law on AML/CFT/PF (No. 10/2025) came into force, introducing new rules for the crypto sector and hefty fines for companies. Official Gazettes of Dubai Nos. 742–743 have been published; realLaw AI has added new documents (including on hotel support, tokenised assets, and education decisions) and a practical guide for influencers with a checklist.
On 14 October 2025, Federal Decree-Law No. 10/2025 On Combating Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Proliferation Financing came into force. What has changed:
Virtual assets. Separate definitions are given for "virtual assets" and "virtual asset service providers (VASPs)". VASP activities without a licence/registration are prohibited. The crypto sector is subject to direct AML/CFT/PF regulation.
Financial Intelligence Unit. The FIU receives reports and may request data from VASPs. The FIU also coordinates the suspension of suspicious transactions. Under the new law, the authority has the right to freeze funds at VASPs without prior notice for up to 30 days (with an extension by court order).
AML fines. The minimum fine threshold has been reduced to AED 1...