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UAE Cybersecurity Regulations

Expert Compliance Guidance For SMEs and DIFC Firms

Regulatory Compliance Guidance For UAE Businesses and DIFC organizations

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How to Map NIST CSF & CIS Controls to UAE Regulatory Requirements

AccuSights UAE

How to Map NIST CSF & CIS Controls to UAE Regulatory Requirements

UAE Compliance Center - Complete Regulatory Guidance

Essential Guide to UAE And DIFC Compliance Obligations & Regulatory Standards And Cybersecurity Requirements For All Businesses

UAE Federal Compliance Framework

Understand UAE Regulatory Compliance With Our Detailed Guide Covering Major Laws & Authorities and Business Obligations Under Federal Regulations

Table of Contents

Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL)

Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021

Governs processing and protection of personal data, requiring transparency and consent for data collection, storage, and usage.

Key Points:
  • Requires explicit consent for data processing
  • Mandates data breach notification within 72 hours
  • Establishes individual rights to data access and deletion

Anti-Money Laundering (AML-CFT) Laws

Federal AML-CFT Regulations

Prevents illegal activities like money laundering and terrorism financing through customer due diligence and reporting requirements.

Key Points:
  • Customer Due Diligence (CDD) procedures required
  • Suspicious transaction reporting mandatory
  • Record keeping requirements for 5+ years

UAE Cybercrime Law

Federal Cybercrime Legislation

Criminalizes hacking, data theft, and illegal digital activities, requiring strong cybersecurity measures for businesses.

Key Points:
  • Penalties for unauthorized system access
  • Data protection and encryption requirements
  • Incident response and reporting obligations

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

UAE ESR Requirements

Ensures entities conducting specific activities have substantial operations in the UAE, particularly relevant for multinational groups.

Key Points:
  • Core Income Generating Activities (CIGA) requirements
  • Adequate number of qualified employees in UAE
  • Adequate operating expenditure in UAE

Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Rules

UBO Disclosure Requirements

Requires disclosure of individuals who ultimately own or control companies to prevent illicit financial activities.

Key Points:
  • Disclosure of 25%+ ownership or control
  • Annual UBO register updates required
  • Penalties for non-disclosure or false information

VAT and Tax Compliance

UAE VAT Law (2018)

Requires businesses to collect and remit VAT on goods and services with proper documentation and reporting.

Key Points:
  • 5% standard VAT rate on most goods and services
  • Monthly/quarterly VAT return filing
  • Digital tax invoicing requirements

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