Service Overview
EQUITY provides comprehensive regulatory compliance services to help businesses navigate the complex regulatory landscape in the UAE. Our expert team ensures your business meets all legal obligations across various regulatory frameworks, minimizing risks and avoiding penalties.
From Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) and Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) registration to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance and international reporting requirements, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific compliance needs.
- Expert knowledge of UAE and international regulatory requirements
- Proactive approach to compliance management
- Customized compliance solutions for your business
- Ongoing support and updates on regulatory changes
Our Regulatory Compliance Services
Comprehensive solutions to ensure your business meets all regulatory requirements
Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)
Comprehensive assistance with ESR compliance, including assessment, documentation, and reporting.
Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO)
Support with UBO identification, registration, and ongoing compliance requirements.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
Development and implementation of AML policies, procedures, and compliance programs.
FATCA and CRS Reporting
Assistance with Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and Common Reporting Standard (CRS) obligations.
Trade License Renewals
Timely processing of trade license renewals and amendments to ensure continuous compliance.
Legal Documentation
Preparation and attestation of legal documents required for regulatory compliance.
Why Choose EQUITY
What sets our regulatory compliance services apart
Expertise
Our team includes compliance specialists with in-depth knowledge of UAE and international regulations.
Proactive Approach
We take a proactive approach to compliance, anticipating regulatory changes and their impact on your business.
Customized Solutions
We provide tailored compliance solutions based on your specific business activities and requirements.
Ongoing Support
We offer continuous support and updates to ensure your business remains compliant with evolving regulations.
Our Process
How we ensure your regulatory compliance
Assessment
We assess your business activities and structure to identify applicable regulatory requirements.
Gap Analysis
We conduct a thorough gap analysis to identify areas of non-compliance or potential risks.
Implementation
We implement necessary processes, policies, and documentation to ensure compliance.
Ongoing Monitoring
We provide continuous monitoring and updates to maintain compliance with evolving regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about regulatory compliance in the UAE
What are Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) and who do they apply to?
Economic Substance Regulations require certain UAE entities to demonstrate sufficient economic substance in the UAE. They apply to entities carrying out 'Relevant Activities' such as banking, insurance, investment fund management, shipping, holding company activities, and intellectual property activities. Compliance involves demonstrating adequate physical presence, employees, and core income-generating activities in the UAE.
What is the Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) registration requirement?
The UBO registration requires UAE entities to identify and register individuals who ultimately own or control 25% or more of the entity. This information must be submitted to the relevant authorities and kept updated. The requirement aims to enhance transparency and combat financial crimes.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with regulatory requirements?
Penalties for non-compliance vary depending on the regulation but can include substantial financial penalties, trade license suspension, restrictions on business activities, and in severe cases, criminal prosecution. For example, ESR non-compliance can result in penalties of AED 20,000 to AED 50,000.
How often do regulatory requirements change in the UAE?
The UAE regulatory landscape is dynamic, with changes occurring regularly as the country aligns with international standards and enhances its business environment. Significant updates typically occur annually, but minor changes can happen more frequently, highlighting the importance of ongoing compliance monitoring.
Can foreign companies be subject to UAE regulatory requirements?
Yes, foreign companies with a presence in the UAE (such as a branch, representative office, or subsidiary) are subject to applicable UAE regulatory requirements. Additionally, foreign companies conducting business with UAE entities may need to comply with certain UAE regulations, particularly in areas like AML and KYC.
How can EQUITY help with ongoing compliance monitoring?
EQUITY provides continuous monitoring of regulatory changes, periodic compliance reviews, timely alerts on upcoming deadlines, assistance with annual filings and renewals, and regular compliance reports. Our proactive approach helps businesses stay ahead of regulatory requirements and avoid penalties.