The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has imposed a financial penalty of Dh3 million on a local bank for failing to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

The fine was issued under Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. (20) of 2018 on Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations, as well as Article 137 of the Decretal Federal Law No. (14) of 2018 concerning the Central Bank and regulation of financial institutions.

The CBUAE said the penalty followed an investigation which found that the bank had not met regulatory requirements outlined in UAE legislation to combat financial crime.

In a statement, the Central Bank reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the transparency and integrity of the country’s financial system. “We continue to supervise and regulate all licensed financial institutions to ensure full compliance with UAE laws, regulations, and standards,” the authority said.

The name of the bank was not disclosed.

As tensions rise in parts of the Middle East and the Arabian Gulf, the UAE’s Al Ameen Service is calling on the public to stay alert and take an active role in keeping communities safe.

In a message shared on Instagram, Al Ameen reminded residents that everyone has a role to play in protecting the safety and security of the UAE. The service urged people to watch out for any suspicious behaviour or unusual activity in their surroundings, and to report it immediately.

“Due to the unstable security and political situation in the region, Al Ameen Service urges the public to remain alert and attentive,” the post read. “Observe and report any suspicious behaviour or observations to the security authorities and Al Ameen Service, so that the necessary measures can be taken.”

Residents can report concerns through Al Ameen’s official channels or by calling their 24/7 hotline at 800 4444. All reports are kept confidential.

This call for public awareness isn’t just about emergencies; it’s a reminder that in the UAE, community safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re commuting, at the mall, or online, speaking up when something feels off can make all the difference.

Launched by Dubai Police, Al Ameen Service provides a safe and easy way for people to report anything that could affect public safety, from security concerns to cyber threats.

So, if you see something unusual, say something. One quick report could help keep your neighbourhood safe.

Need to report something?
Call 800 4444
Visit Al Ameen Service
Or message via their official app or social media channels.

Individuals promoting content or advertising on social media in the UAE will soon need to follow stricter rules under a new comprehensive regulatory system introduced by the UAE Media Council.

The new framework, announced this week, is designed to build public trust, protect viewers, especially children and adolescents, and raise the quality of online media content. It also outlines heavy penalties for violations, with fines reaching up to Dh1 million for first-time offences and up to Dh2 million for repeat breaches. In serious cases, violators could face temporary or permanent shutdowns, along with permit revocations.

“The new system transforms the way the media sector is regulated and developed,” said Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council. 

“It combines updated legislation, comprehensive services, and forward-looking policies to support sustainable growth.”

Fee exemptions and local support

To encourage creativity and responsible content creation, the council announced a three-year exemption from permit fees for individuals and influencers who promote content online. This is part of a broader move to support Emirati talent and creative industries, with similar exemptions offered to local media services, producers, and writers whose work promotes national identity.

The initiative builds on last year’s Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation, and aims to stimulate growth in the sector while maintaining strong ethical and professional standards.

New age-rating and licensing systems

A key feature of the new regulations includes a media age-rating system, ensuring that content shared online is appropriate for different age groups, especially young viewers.

The council is also developing a new licensing policy for digital news platforms, with a focus on enhancing credibility and journalistic standards. The goal is to create a balanced legal environment that supports responsible reporting while safeguarding freedom of expression.

The updated system also outlines resolutions related to media service fees, violations, and administrative penalties, offering clearer guidelines for all stakeholders in the media landscape.