he Complete Guide to goAML Registration in UAE

When I first started helping UAE businesses with regulatory compliance, goAML always felt like a big, looming checkpoint. Many had heard about it, but very few actually understood what it was, why it mattered, and how to get it done correctly. I believe if you run a company in this country, you owe it to yourself to understand the goAML process, associated deadlines, documents required, and potential penalties. So let me walk you through everything you need to know.

What is goAML and Why Is It Important?

The UAE has built a powerful, global economy. With that success comes a responsibility to protect it. So, the system of goAML was introduced by the UAE’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) under the Central Bank to serve as a digital watchdog that will detect and prevent financial crimes – money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities.

Who Needs to Register?

This is often the first question a client asks. So, you need to register if you are a -

1. Financial Institution: Banks, exchange houses, insurance companies, and investment firms.

2. Designated Non-Financial Business and Profession (DNFBPs): This is the category that catches many by surprise. It includes:

• Real estate brokers and agents
• Dealers in precious metals and stones (like gold and diamonds)
• Auditors, accountants, and tax consultants
• Lawyers, notaries, and other legal professionals
• Trust and company service providers
• Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs): Entities that provide cryptocurrency services or handle virtual assets.

If you’re part of any of these sectors, the FIU expects you to register on goAML. Most importantly, goAML registration is your gateway to lawful operation. It tells your partners and clients that you operate with integrity and transparency.

You can also read: Importance of AML Compliance in UAE for Real Estate Sector

What Documents Do You Need?

Here’s the part you’ll want to prepare for in advance, because incomplete paperwork is the main reason why applications get delayed. When helping clients, I always ask them to keep the following ready:

• Your company’s valid trade license
• A letter from your organization authorizing the compliance officer to act on its behalf for goAML tasks.
• Business Licensing and Proof of Operation
• Compliance officer’s passport, Emirates ID, and resident visa copies
• Your company’s contact number and official email address
• Download the 'Google Authenticator' application on your phone. The app generates a unique code/secret key. This code will be used as your password to log into the goAML portal.

How to Complete the GoAML Registration Process

The registration happens in two steps –

Stage 1: SACM pre-registration

First, you must register on the Service Access Control Manager (SACM) portal to obtain login credentials for the main GoAML portal. This involves filling out the registration form and uploading the above documents as a single PDF file.

You will receive an email with login information to set up two-factor authentication using the Google Authenticator app following submission and acceptance.

Stage 2: GoAML portal registration

Once you have your login credentials, you may use your SACM username and the code from your Google Authenticator app to finish registering your company on the GoAML portal.

You must register as a new organization on the site by entering all of your company's information, including that of your Compliance Officer. Now, submit the application to the FIU (Financial Intelligence Unit) for approval, and when all checks out, you will receive a unique Organization ID through which you can start filing Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) whenever necessary.

You can also read: What is the Role of AML Consultants in Devising the AML

What’s The Deadline?

This is the question that causes the most anxiety. My advice here is that you should register as soon as you receive your trade license. Failing to register can trigger audits & fines, so stay proactive and register now to keep your operations smooth.

What Are The Penalties For Not Registering?

This is the part where most people sit up straight during my consultations. The UAE authorities do not take non-compliance lightly and penalties can put a serious dent in your business. The penalty can vary from AED 50,000 to AED 5,000,000 in certain circumstances.

My Advice - Take Action Immediately!

I believe compliance is about more than just avoiding fines; it's also about safeguarding the image of your business. As, by registering with goAML, you show your partners, clients, and authorities that your business takes ethics and transparency seriously.

So, get your documents ready and complete your goAML registration today.

CDA: You Partner in Ensuring Compliance

The businesses and the specific entities that are required to get registered under the goAML requirements must ensure that they have all the required documents sorted and register within the time limits. The AML experts of CDA have been providing the assistance regarding AML requirements for a long time; hence, our team of professionals can assist you in planning, registering, and filing the report via goAML.

To explore more, connect to our professionals today

Mitesh Maithia

Tax Manager

Mitesh is a Tax Professional with expertise in direct, indirect, and international taxation, including transfer pricing, since 2018. Passionate about making complex tax matters simple, he shares insights to help businesses stay compliant and forward-looking.