In a bold move that signals the UAE’s rising influence on the global financial stage, Abu Dhabi has just hosted the world’s first-ever FATF Global Network Secretariat Retreat, putting itself right at the center of the fight against money laundering, terrorist financing, and financial crime. Organized by the UAE’s National Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations Committee, this historic retreat brought together top-tier experts from all nine FATF-Style Regional Bodies and the FATF Secretariat itself, marking a groundbreaking step in global financial diplomacy
The three-day event was anything but ordinary. It wasn’t just another networking summit—it was a strategic think-tank designed to elevate international cooperation and harmonize efforts to tackle financial threats. From typologies and risk assessments to training programs and cross-border intelligence sharing, the discussions were deep, detailed, and destined to shape global frameworks for years to come.
Backed by the Mexican presidency of the FATF, the retreat underscored the growing significance of regional bodies in shaping global anti-financial crime strategies. It also highlighted the UAE’s unwavering commitment to transparency, compliance, and innovation in the financial sector. By playing host to such a monumental gathering, the UAE reinforced its reputation as a trusted international partner and a leader in financial security reform.
But the real takeaway? Abu Dhabi isn’t just showing up—it’s leading the charge. The emirate is positioning itself as the go-to global hub for next-gen financial integrity, where innovation meets regulation and global experts unite to protect the future of finance.
This isn’t just a win for the UAE—it’s a loud and clear message to financial criminals worldwide: the world is getting smarter, faster, and more unified in shutting the door on dirty money. And right now, that mission has a home—Abu Dhabi.
