EU Removes UAE From High-Risk Money Laundering List

The United Arab Emirates has been removed from the European Union's list of high-risk third countries for money laundering and terrorist financing, a decision approved by the European Parliament and pending final confirmation from EU member states. UAE officials, including Minister of State Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh and Federal National Council Speaker Saqr Ghobash, have welcomed the move as recognition of the country's robust and future-ready anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks that meet the highest international standards. The removal is seen as a testament to the UAE's strong regulatory efforts and exceptional diplomatic initiatives led by senior leadership, notably H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This milestone is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between the UAE and the EU, paving the way for enhanced economic cooperation and ongoing free trade agreement negotiations. UAE leaders emphasized the commitment to transparency, security, and international collaboration to safeguard the integrity of the global financial system. The decision reflects the UAE's status as a trusted global financial hub and signals new opportunities for shared prosperity and security between the two regions.