KYC in the UAE
Know Your Customer (KYC) is a mandatory client identification procedure, without which it is impossible to open an account, pass banking compliance, or operate in the UAE financial sector. For companies and individuals, it is the key to trust, access to services, and legal work in the market.
What is KYC and why is it needed?
In the UAE, KYC is applied by banks, government bodies, and private companies. Its purpose is to confirm a client’s identity, source of funds, and business transparency. Without proper KYC it is impossible to:
- open a corporate or personal account;
- pass banking compliance;
- register a company;
- operate in cryptocurrency, finance, and investments.
What does the KYC procedure include?
- For individuals: Passport, Emirates ID, visa, proof of address (utility bill / tenancy contract), CV/resume, bank statements or source of income confirmation, photo and contact details.
- For companies: Incorporation documents (license, MOA, share certificate), ownership structure (shareholding chart), share capital and ultimate beneficial owner (UBO), business plan, contracts with clients/suppliers, proof of office address.
Why is KYC important?
- Ensures financial transparency and reduces risks.
- Forms part of AML compliance (Anti-Money Laundering).
- Required when opening accounts in the UAE, EU, UK, and other countries.
- Used during checks by banks, the Central Bank, and Free Zones.
- Builds trust and strengthens your reputation as a reliable client.
Risks of ignoring KYC
- Refusal to open or account blockage.
- Suspension or non-renewal of business license.
- Inability to sign international contracts.
- Being placed on a High-Risk client list.
HowTo: How KYC works in the UAE
- Collect basic documents (passport, Emirates ID, license, address).
- Prepare a KYC file: client or corporate profile.
- Verify sources of income and financial flows.
- Submit the package to the bank or regulator.
- Respond to additional requests from compliance officers.
- Regularly update KYC when data changes.
KYC in the UAE with MIRAD
We prepare turnkey KYC files, handle submission and communication with banks. Your profile will be approved without risks.
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What MIRAD does:
- Preparation of a complete KYC file tailored to your business type and country.
- Advisory on every document and its preparation.
- Collection of evidence for sources of funds and income.
- Drafting client profile / company profile for submission to banks.
- Handling compliance department requests.
- Updating KYC during account renewals, license renewals, or data changes.
Why choose MIRAD
- 10+ years of client support experience in the UAE.
- We work with banks, Free Zones, fintech, and crypto companies.
- We know real compliance requirements and how to pass them.
- We prepare KYC in Russian and English.
- We accompany clients until full approval and account opening.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about KYC in the UAE
❓ Is KYC only required for banks?
✅ No, KYC is also mandatory for Free Zones, government bodies, and crypto companies.
❓ How long does the KYC process take in the UAE?
✅ Usually 3 to 10 business days, depending on profile complexity.
❓ Do documents need to be translated into English?
✅ Yes, all profiles and KYC files are prepared in English.
❓ What if the bank requests additional documents?
✅ MIRAD prepares the responses and supports the process until approval.
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