" UAE probing RSF-linked firms after US sanctions" 4 April 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced Friday it has launched investigations into the activities of UAE-based companies linked to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after the United States sanctioned them over the Sudan conflict.

In a statement on Friday, the UAE Ministry of Justice said that the seven specific companies targeted by U.S. sanctions for links to the RSF do not hold valid commercial licenses in the Emirates. The ministry confirmed an investigation into their activities and associated persons is underway.

Last January, the United States imposed sanctions on RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo “Hemetti,” another individual, and seven UAE-based companies linked to the paramilitary group. The sanctions stem from Executive Order 14098, issued by then-President Joe Biden on May 4, 2023, which cited the Sudan situation as a threat to U.S. national security and foreign policy. [...]

The statement noted that relevant UAE authorities continue to monitor for potential suspicious activities in line with national laws. The ministry explained that Abu Dhabi launched its own probe into the firms and individuals immediately upon being notified of the U.S. sanctions and has requested more information from Washington to assist.