All businesses and CRs in Bahrain are expected to adhere to both local and international standards. This includes establishing robust internal policies to prevent financial crime, conducting thorough due diligence, and reporting any suspicious activity or transactions. It is also essential for companies to appoint designated compliance officers and ensure staff receive comprehensive, ongoing training in AML/CFT protocols.With the right knowledge and technology in place, your business can confidently manage its customer due diligence (CDD) and reporting responsibilities, detect red flags early, and respond decisively – minimising regulatory exposure and protecting your reputation and bottom line.
Bahrain’s Commitment to AML/CFT Excellence
The Role of the Private Sector in Financial Crime Prevention
2018 FATF Mutual Evaluation
2022 Enhanced Follow-up Report
Identified Shortcomings and Areas for Improvement
Features and Capabilities
Role in Supporting Private Sector Compliance
Legislative Decree No. 4 of 2001
Legal Obligations for Businesses
The Role of Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)
Impact on National Security and Law Enforcement
Key Components of a Good STR Report
Content and Formatting Tips
Ensuring Compliance and Confidentiality
Risk Classification and Enhanced Due Diligence
Business Actions After Submitting an STR
Case Studies of Non-Compliance
Legal and Financial Consequences
No matter your industry – be it finance, professional services, real estate, jewellery, or beyond – every Bahraini company has a duty to understand and meet its anti-money laundering (AML) obligations. A recent survey we conducted on AML readiness among companies in Bahrain revealed a concerning gap in awareness: only 50% of respondents felt their organisation had a strong understanding of AML legislation, and even fewer were clear about their specific compliance responsibilities. In response, we have developed this practical guide to help companies across Bahrain better understand and fulfil their AML obligations.
1. Bahrain’s AML Legal Framework — Understand your duties under Decree Law No. 4 of 2001, Ministerial Orders, and CBB regulations.
2. Sector-Specific Risk Exposure — Real estate, financial services, jewellers, lawyers and more: see your risk rating and top threats.
3. Practical Compliance Checklist — Get an AML action plan to assess your company’s readiness.
4. High-Risk Red Flags — Explore real-life cases of cybercrime, fraud, terrorist financing, and human trafficking in Bahrain.
5. How to Prepare for FATF 2026 — Learn how Bahrain is aligning with FATF standards and what this means for your business.
6. Tools to Simplify AML Compliance — Explore how the Aman platform can automate your AML checks, screening, and reporting.
As the oldest and most secure financial centre in the Middle East, Bahrain is consistently undergoing evaluations from international regulators and investors. This focus goes beyond regulation; it’s an opportunity to strengthen Bahrain’s position as the Gulf’s most trusted financial centre. Businesses that proactively embrace compliance not only enhance their resilience but also unlock new investment opportunities and secure a competitive edge. With the 2026 FATF evaluation on the horizon, the Kingdom has a valuable chance to showcase its commitment to meaningful enforcement and sustained progress.
The AMAN platform is Bahrain’s only all-in-one AML solution, built specifically for the Kingdom’s regulatory environment. Powered by Themis, it enables real-time screening across 250+ global sanctions lists, automated Customer Risk Calculators, end-to-end Suspicious Activity Reporting to FID, customised EDD reports, monitoring, and compliance training , integrated tools for real estate, precious metals, FIs, and more. Whether you're a compliance officer, MLRO, lawyer, or business owner, AMAN gives you the tools to stay ahead of the law and criminals. This guide offers a comprehensive roadmap to help you navigate regulatory requirements, improve risk management, and enhance your organisation’s financial crime prevention efforts.
