EU Removes UAE from High-Risk List After Improvements in Fighting Money Laundering
The European Union (EU) has taken the UAE off its list of countries at high risk for money laundering. This decision comes after the UAE worked to strengthen its rules against money laundering and terrorism financing.
UAE Removed from EU Watchlist
The European Union (EU) has taken the United Arab Emirates (UAE) off its list of countries with high money-laundering risks. This decision shows that the UAE is now more in line with international rules, especially those of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which removed the UAE from its “increased monitoring” list in 2024.
The UAE had raised concerns about being on the blacklist, and this move also reflects improved ties between the EU and UAE, including a new plan to start free trade talks.
Other countries removed from the list include Barbados, Gibraltar, Jamaica, Panama, the Philippines, Senegal, and Uganda.
However, the EU added new countries to the list for extra checks on money-laundering risks. These are Monaco, Algeria, Angola, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Namibia, Nepal, and Venezuela. The changes were based on expert assessments, FATF reviews, country visits, and discussions.
EU-UAE Trade Talks Begin
Last month, the EU and UAE officially started talks on a free trade agreement. If successful, it would be the first full trade deal between the EU and a Gulf country.
The goal is to make trade and investment easier, remove trade barriers, and boost business between Europe and the UAE. This could support long-term economic growth and create new business chances.
The deal might also lead to major agreements, such as a $50 billion AI data center project with France and a $40 billion investment in Italy’s energy and defense sectors.
UAE and the FATF
In February 2024, the FATF removed the UAE from its “grey list” of countries with risks of illegal money flows. This came after a detailed review and visit, where the FATF found the UAE had made strong improvements in monitoring financial activities.
The FATF’s grey list includes countries with weak anti-money-laundering systems, but that are working to improve. The UAE was added to the list in 2022 because of risks in areas like banking, gold trading, and real estate.
Published: 12th June 2025
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