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The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) continues to demonstrate a robust approach to regulation and supervision across the financial services sector in the UAE. Over the past twelve months, CBUAE enforcement actions have appeared in the headlines more frequently, sending a strong message to the market and emphasising the importance of compliance and consequences of non-compliance. Read the full article to learn more:

At a recent panel hosted by Grant Thornton UAE, “The 3 C’s of successful AML program remediation”, I had the privilege to moderate and explore with fellow panellists how LFIs can rise to the challenge with strategic intent and operational precision. The discussion brought together regulatory veterans, banking executives, and remediation experts to explore what truly drives success in AML compliance program remediation. The consensus? It’s not just about fixing what’s broken. It’s about building something better—with competence, clarity, and collaboration as the foundational elements. Read the full article to learn more:

This second installment in our three-part series examines the crucial impact of effective complaints handling on Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs). We aim to provide valuable insights into conduct risk management and how LFIs can strengthen their control frameworks to meet the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)’s Consumer Protection Regulation and Standards. GT UAE offers expertise in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and the complexities of maintaining ethical standards while addressing consumer protection and market conduct risks.

This second installment in our three-part series examines the crucial impact of effective complaints handling on Licensed Financial Institutions (LFIs). We aim to provide valuable insights into conduct risk management and how LFIs can strengthen their control frameworks to meet the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)’s Consumer Protection Regulation and Standards. GT UAE offers expertise in navigating the evolving regulatory landscape and the complexities of maintaining ethical standards while addressing consumer protection and market conduct risks.

The UAE’s financial sector is evolving with a focus on consumer protection, market conduct, and ethical practices, driven by innovation and sustainability. Key advancements include the rise of digital banking, fostering a cashless society and greater convenience. Retail lending has increased, boosting profitability, while fintech solutions enhance financial inclusion. CBUAE Consumer Protection Regulations & Standards emphasize integrating conduct risk management in financial institutions to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Further, with the launch of the CBUAE’s Ombudsman “Sanadak” highlights the importance of consumer protection, market conduct and the importance of effective complaints handling. Institutions that neglect conduct risk may face regulatory and reputational issues, while those adopting strong market conduct frameworks can build resilience, consumer trust, and competitiveness. Read the full article to learn more.

Understanding the Central Bank of UAE's Fitness and Propriety Regulation and Standards The Regulation and Standards align with international standard setters and global best practices, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to maintaining and growing a globally competitive financial sector. By adhering to these standards, financial institutions in the UAE can enhance their reputation and credibility on the international stage.

We hosted an insightful webinar on tax governance and risk management in the evolving UAE tax landscape. Our session covered critical topics such as tax governance frameworks, strategic tax policy development, compliance and reporting, transfer pricing, and VAT procedures. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with experts during our interactive Q&A session, equipping them with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of the new tax era.

We are pleased to share the latest edition of our quarterly F&B publication, offering insights into the economic outlook and key trends in the regional F&B sector for 2025 and beyond.

Thank you for reading and sharing our Sector Focus: Exploring the Maritime Ambitions of GCC ports article. Please reach out to the team if you have any questions.

Are energy costs affecting your business? Here’s what you need to know. Rising energy costs are a concern for global mid-market businesses, impacting operational expenses and long-term planning. The UAE has made significant strides in diversifying its energy sources. Grant Thornton has consulted with global energy industry leaders to understand how businesses are navigating these changes. For more detailed insights on the report, you can find the full article in the link below.

Explore the main listing requirements and navigate the IPO journey confidently with our capital market specialists, who have facilitated over a third of the UAE IPOs since 2018, providing insights into governance frameworks and compliance requirements in the UAE, and maximising listing success.

As economic development continues to be a key pillar in the UAE’s journey, regulatory authorities are constantly introducing new robust measures to the market for the purpose of maintaining financial stability and fostering growth.

Following on from Part 2 of our ‘Ten-Point Guide to Selling your Business’ publication, which focused on ‘Preparing for Sale’, we are pleased to introduce Part 3 of the series, where we will focus on the Going to Market stage of the process.

The Consumer Protection Regulation “CPR” issued by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates “CBUAE” on December 31, 2020, mandated that Licensed Financial Institutions (LFI’s) must adhere to the CPR and the related Consumer Protection Standards (CPS). As a consequence, there will be increased scrutiny on LFIs to meet the regulatory expectations across key controls of conduct risk.

Organisations are rapidly embracing this shift, integrating ESG practices into their strategies to mitigate risks, build resilience, and unlock sustainable growth. Meanwhile, regulators and policymakers recognise the need for a supportive ecosystem that empowers businesses on this journey while fostering sustainable economic development.

Air freight terminals in the GCC region serve as pivotal cargo hubs in the global logistics industry. Situated at the crossroads of major international trade routes, these state-of-the-art facilities are critical for the efficient movement of goods across the world. With a focus on innovation, infrastructure development and strategic positioning, the GCC’s cargo terminals have emerged as vital links in the global supply chain.