Clifford Chance

Dubai's new 'super regulator'

14 September 2016

His Highness the Ruler of Dubai recently established a new regulator, the Dubai Economic Security Centre (DESC).

The new regulator's main objective is to protect Dubai's economy from a broad range of crimes and misconduct, including money laundering, terrorist financing and bribery. To achieve this objective, the DESC has at its disposal a broad range of powers which it may exercise in coordination with the existing authorities.

Businesses in Dubai, including those located within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), should be aware of the DESC's mandate and the powers it wields. This briefing details the DESC's key features, including the protection it provides to whistleblowers.

As the DESC is not yet operational, we will continue to monitor its establishment which will likely require further implementing regulations in the coming months.

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