Skip to main content

3.2.1.1 Customer Identification and verification

Effective from 16/6/2021

Under Article 8 of AML-CFT Decision, LFIs are required to identify and verify the identity of all customers.

In most countries, including the UAE, anyone operating a business, whether as an individual or a legal person, must have a business license. Such persons may also need to be registered with their country's ministry of commerce or economy. Among other documents required for customer identification and verification, LFIs should ensure that they collect proof of an active license and/or registration from all business customers. Where a license is required, lack of one may indicate that a customer is attempting to avoid regulation and supervision by the authorities in the UAE or in its home jurisdiction.