ABU DHABI, November 19, 2025: The Ministry of Foreign Trade has reaffirmed that the United Arab Emirates maintains a comprehensive and transparent regulatory framework for its gold sector, following international standards designed to ensure integrity and traceability across the global supply chain. The statement came in response to recent reports regarding gold imports from Sudan, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to responsible trade practices. The Ministry said the UAE, recognized as the world’s second-largest gold trading hub, sources gold from every continent under a system built on transparency, compliance, and oversight.
Over the past five years, authorities have implemented a robust framework incorporating mandatory anti-money-laundering and know-your-customer measures, annual audits, and strict enforcement at all points of entry. Officials stated that these procedures align with, and in some cases surpass, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Due Diligence Guidelines for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. The UAE’s adherence to these standards, the Ministry said, places it among the leading global gold-trading centers that uphold ethical sourcing and rigorous compliance.
According to the Ministry, national regulators require all gold refiners and precious metals dealers to carry out enhanced due diligence, both on-site and off-site, before establishing business relationships with suppliers operating in or sourcing from conflict-affected and high-risk areas. These rules are designed to ensure that the origins of imported gold meet international expectations for legitimacy and transparency. The Ministry added that this framework operates under a risk-based approach supported by ongoing oversight and comprehensive training programs for sector participants. These combined measures have effectively minimized the risk of conflict-affected gold entering legitimate markets and have strengthened confidence in the UAE’s precious metals trade.
UAE continues cooperation with global institutions on compliance
The system, the Ministry noted, reflects the country’s broader economic focus on compliance, international cooperation, and sustainable commercial growth. Data released by the Ministry underscored the scale and global reach of the UAE’s gold trade. In 2024, the total value of gold passing through the country reached US$186 billion, reinforcing its position as a key global hub for bullion trade. Imports from Sudan accounted for US$1.97 billion, or about 1.06 percent of the total value, representing less than 0.4 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product. The figures illustrate both the diversification of the UAE’s gold supply chain and the relatively limited contribution of Sudanese imports to the overall trade volume. The Ministry said the UAE’s gold industry continues to earn the trust of international exporters and trading partners who recognize the country’s stable, well-regulated, and transparent market environment.
Global partners recognize UAE’s transparent gold market structure
Officials emphasized that the nation’s ongoing commitment to integrity in the gold trade is supported by close coordination among government entities, regulators, and private sector participants. In concluding its statement, the Ministry reaffirmed that the UAE will continue to apply and strengthen its existing policies in cooperation with global institutions and industry bodies to ensure that enforcement, due diligence, and reporting practices remain consistent with the highest international standards. The statement underscored that the country’s gold sector operates with full compliance to global frameworks, reflecting the UAE’s role as a trusted, responsible, and transparent player in the international commodities market. – By Content Syndication Services.