KYC and AML requirements for UAE bank accounts
UAE banks must verify who you are, where your money comes from and how the account will be used. Preparation is what gets accounts opened.
What banks check
- Identity of the company, shareholders, directors and signatories
- Beneficial ownership through every layer of the structure
- Source of funds for the money entering the account
- Source of wealth of the owners
- Expected activity: volumes, counterparties and countries
- Screening against sanctions, adverse media and politically exposed person lists
Enhanced due diligence
Applies to higher-risk profiles, such as links to sanctioned or high-risk jurisdictions, politically exposed persons, cash-intensive or regulated sectors, and complex structures. It means more documents and more questions, not necessarily a refusal.
How to prepare
Build one consistent file with a clear business narrative, documentary evidence of wealth and funds, and a simple structure chart. See Bank account documents.
Common questions
What is a politically exposed person?
Someone with a prominent public function, or their close family and associates. Banks apply extra checks, but PEPs can open accounts.
Official sources
We check our guidance against these official sources. Always confirm current fees and rules before acting.