The Central Bank of the UAE has fined a branch of a foreign bank AED20 million (approximately $5.4 million USD) due to significant deficiencies in its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing controls. The regulator identified repeated failures within the bank’s systems designed to prevent financial crime. In addition to the institutional fine, the bank’s Head of Compliance has been personally penalized with a AED300,000 fine for non-compliance with regulatory duties. This action signals the UAE Central Bank’s strong stance on maintaining the integrity of the national financial system. The penalties reflect a commitment to enforcing robust AML and counter-terrorist financing practices within the banking sector. Authorities did not disclose the name of the foreign bank involved. The move aims to deter future breaches and strengthen financial security measures.