Staying compliant
UBO, ESR, AML: the compliance layer nobody warns founders about
UAE companies carry standing obligations beyond the licence: beneficial ownership filings, substance rules and, for some sectors, full AML programmes. Missing them draws real fines. We run the calendar.
The obligations that apply to almost everyone
- UBO register: every company must file and maintain its ultimate beneficial owners; penalties reach AED 100,000
- Corporate tax and VAT calendars, covered under our tax service
- Licence, establishment card and visa renewals on their own cycles
- Registered agent and address maintenance for offshore entities
The obligations that apply to some
- AML programmes for DNFBPs: real estate brokers, dealers in precious metals and stones, corporate service providers and auditors must register on goAML, appoint an MLRO and screen counterparties
- Economic substance considerations for relevant activities such as holding, IP and distribution
- Sector regulator filings: DFSA, VARA, DHA and others depending on licence
How we keep clients clean
Every client company gets a compliance calendar: what falls due, when, what it costs and what we need from you, chased before deadlines rather than after penalties. For DNFBP clients we build the AML file properly once, registration, policies, screening tooling and MLRO arrangements, then keep it current.
Questions
Compliance & AML, asked and answered
Is my business a DNFBP?
If you broker real estate, deal in precious metals or stones, provide corporate services or audit, yes, and goAML registration is mandatory. The fines for ignoring it start at six figures. If unsure, ask us; the answer takes one conversation.
What is the UBO register?
A filing identifying the real people who ultimately own or control the company, held with your licensing authority. It must be filed at incorporation and kept accurate through any ownership change, which is why we bundle it with share transfers and amendments.
Do free zone companies escape these rules?
No. UBO, AML and tax obligations apply across jurisdictions, and free zone authorities enforce their own filing calendars on top. The zone choice changes the details, not the duty.
Ready to check your company name?
Run the free name check, pick your activity and get a matched free zone recommendation with real numbers. Two minutes, no obligation.
Free check · No payment · Reply same day