How DNFBPs Use GoAML for Reporting

Introduction

To strengthen the UAE’s fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, the Ministry of Economy (MOE) has mandated that Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) use the goAML platform for reporting suspicious activities. This platform, developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and implemented by the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), provides a secure and standardized system for DNFBPs to fulfil their reporting obligations.

For DNFBPs, proper use of goAML is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a vital safeguard to protect their business, customers, and reputation.

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What is goAML?

goAML is an integrated software solution designed to:

• Collect and analyze suspicious transaction reports (STRs) and suspicious activity reports (SARs).

• Facilitate secure communication between DNFBPs, financial institutions, and the FIU.

• Enhance the UAE’s ability to detect, prevent, and investigate money laundering and terrorism financing.

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Why DNFBPs Must Register on goAML

As per Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018 and Cabinet Decision No. 10 of 2019, DNFBPs are legally required to:

• Register their entity and compliance officer on the goAML portal.

• Report suspicious transactions or activities in a timely manner.

• Submit other mandated reports, such as Large Cash Transaction Reports (LCTRs) where applicable.

Failure to comply can result in penalties of up to AED 5 million, along with suspension or cancellation of trade licenses.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How DNFBPs Use goAML

1. Entity Registration

• DNFBPs must first register their entity with the MOE Supervisory Authority.

• After approval, the entity proceeds with goAML registration by submitting details of the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) or compliance officer.

2. Compliance Officer Account Setup

• The MLRO/deputy MLRO is registered as the reporting officer on goAML.

• A secure login and digital certificate are provided to ensure safe access.

3. Submission of Reports

DNFBPs must submit the following types of reports through goAML:

• Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs): Filed when a transaction appears unusual, inconsistent with the client’s profile, or lacks a clear economic purpose.

• Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs): Filed when unusual customer behaviour is detected, even if no transaction has taken place.

• Large Cash Transaction Reports (LCTRs): Filed when transactions involving large amounts of cash exceed regulatory thresholds.

• Other Regulatory Reports: Based on MOE or FIU circulars.

4. Data Entry and Documentation

• Reports must include complete customer details, transaction data, and supporting documentation.

• The system requires structured fields (names, IDs, amounts, dates, countries, etc.) and allows attachment of relevant documents.

5. Submission and Confirmation

• Once submitted, the report is encrypted and securely transmitted to the FIU.

• A confirmation is generated, which should be retained as evidence of compliance.

6. Follow-up and Communication

• The FIU may request further information through the goAML platform.

• DNFBPs must respond promptly and provide additional documentation when required.

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Best Practices for DNFBPs in Using goAML

• Appoint a qualified MLRO to handle goAML reporting and communication.

• Train all staff to identify suspicious transactions and escalate them internally.

• Maintain clear internal reporting procedures so that potential STRs/SARs are reviewed before submission.

• Test the system regularly to ensure readiness.

• Keep records of all reports submitted (both electronic confirmations and internal case files).

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Common Challenges Faced by DNFBPs

• Lack of awareness among staff on when to file STRs/SARs.

• Incomplete or incorrect reporting, leading to queries or rejections by the FIU.

• Delays in reporting due to poor internal escalation procedures.

• Over-reliance on MLROs without adequate training for frontline employees.

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Conclusion

The goAML platform is the backbone of the UAE’s AML compliance framework, ensuring that DNFBPs actively contribute to detecting and preventing illicit financial activity. Proper registration, timely reporting, and staff awareness are critical for DNFBPs to avoid penalties and maintain trust with regulators.

By embedding goAML reporting into daily compliance practices, DNFBPs not only meet regulatory expectations but also protect their businesses from financial crime risks.

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About Us

Sheikh Anwar Accounting and Auditing LLC is a leading compliance and audit advisory firm in Dubai, UAE. We specialize in helping DNFBPs meet their AML obligations through:

• goAML registration and reporting support.

• AML policy drafting and implementation.

• MLRO and Deputy MLRO outsourcing.

• Customized AML training programs.

• Ongoing compliance monitoring and advisory.

📍 Office: Dubai Creek Tower, M 35, Dubai, UAE

🌐 Website: www.sa-auditors.com

📧 Email: info@sa-auditors.com