ADGM Enhances Money Laundering Risk Assessment Amid Growth

May 14, 2026

59 min

May 14, 2026 06:30

ADGM updates money laundering risk checks for legal entities

## ADGM's Updated Risk Assessment

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has revised its approach to assessing money laundering and terrorist financing risks. This update comes as the number of registered legal entities within the financial center has surged by 72% over the past two years, reaching 12,302 by March 2026.

## Focus on Financial Crime Risks

The updated assessment provides a comprehensive view of financial crime risks across various legal structures. It aligns with the UAE National Risk Assessment and aims to support licensing decisions, ongoing monitoring, and enforcement actions. The review is intended to assist financial institutions and other regulated firms in evaluating customer risk more effectively.

## Stability in Risk Profile

Despite the increase in registered entities, ADGM reports that the overall risk profile remains stable compared to the 2024 assessment. The update incorporates the latest national intelligence and reflects improvements in beneficial ownership transparency and enforcement tools.

## Operational Tool for Regulatory Work

The assessment serves as a crucial tool for ADGM's regulatory activities, guiding incorporation and licensing applications, inspection priorities, and targeted enforcement. It also helps firms engaging with ADGM entities to calibrate due diligence and identify higher-risk structures.

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