Hiring for KYC & Onboarding Specialist – UAE

Job Description

Hiring for  KYC & Onboarding Specialist – UAE

We are seeking a highly skilled KYC & Onboarding Specialist to join our Risk & Control First Line of Defense (FLOD) team within an international banking environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing end-to-end KYC, AML, and Onboarding processes for both domestic and international clients, ensuring compliance with global regulatory requirements and internal risk frameworks. This role provides a critical function in safeguarding the bank against financial crime and operational risk, while enabling efficient client onboarding and relationship management.

 Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive KYC and AML due diligence for new and existing clients, including individuals, corporates, and trusts.

• Perform risk assessments and categorize clients based on risk exposure.

• Escalate high-risk or suspicious cases to Compliance or senior management as required.

• Manage the full client onboarding process, ensuring all documentation and approvals meet regulatory and internal standards.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date KYC databases and client records for audit and compliance purposes.

• Collaborate closely with Compliance, Legal, Risk, and Operations teams to ensure alignment with internal policies and external regulations.

• Support the development, review, and improvement of AML/KYC policies, procedures, and control frameworks.

• Conduct ongoing monitoring and reviews of clients in line with sanctions, PEPs, adverse media, and regulatory updates.

• Assist with regulatory reporting and audits, ensuring documentation and processes are compliant with local and international standards.

• Stay updated with evolving regulatory requirements, emerging risks, and industry best practices to strengthen the bank’s AML and onboarding frameworks.

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years of KYC/AML experience in banking, financial services, or a related industry.

• Strong knowledge of global AML/KYC regulations, risk assessment frameworks, and compliance processes.

• Proficiency in AML/KYC tools such as World-Check, Thomson Reuters, or equivalent platforms.

• Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, international banking environment.

• Professional qualifications such as ICA, ACAMS, or equivalent certifications are highly desirable.

Why Join:

• Be part of a leading international banking environment in Dubai with exposure to global compliance and risk frameworks.

• Work on high-impact KYC, AML, and onboarding processes, helping safeguard the bank against financial crime.

• Collaborate with experienced professionals across Compliance, Risk, Legal, and Operations teams.

• Gain opportunities for career growth, skill development, and professional certifications in AML/KYC and risk management.

• Experience a dynamic and fast-paced work culture with challenging projects and real responsibility.

• Contribute to building and improving robust compliance systems that make a tangible impact on the organization.