DFSA AML and Glossary Modules amendments come into force; FAQs published

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)'s updated Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorist Financing and Sanctions (AML) and Glossary Modules of the DFSA Rulebook came into force on 2 March 2026.

The amendments follow the new UAE AML federal legislation, introduced in late 2025:

• Federal Decree by Law No. (10) of 2025 Regarding Anti-Money Laundering, and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing; and
• Cabinet Resolution No. (134) of 2025 Regarding the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree by Law No. (10) of 2025 Regarding Anti-Money Laundering, and Combating the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing.

DFSA's amendments were introduced to provide clarity on the AML regime applicable in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and to align with Federal AML legislation.

Relevant Persons are reminded of their obligation to ensure ongoing compliance with:

• UAE Federal AML legislation
• The DIFC Regulatory Law 2004 as it relates to AML
• The AML Module of the DFSA Rulebook

Frequently Asked Questions relating to AML/CTF/CPF

The DFSA has also published Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) addressing key areas where firms often seek clarification, including governance, risk assessments, digital onboarding, outsourcing, and internal audit expectations. The FAQs are intended as a supporting material and should be read alongside the Rules.

For further information on the amendments to the AML and Glossary Modules, please refer to the Notice of Amendments to Legislation issued in February 2026.

To read the FAQs, please click here.