Bank Melli’s Iran-Linked Financial Operations Face New UAE Sanctions

The Central Bank of the UAE has imposed strict sanctions on the UAE branches of Bank Melli Iran, significantly restricting the Iranian state-owned bank’s ability to conduct financial activities in the country. The UAE central bank said the measures cover transactions involving Iran, including financial transfers and the financing of commercial activities. The decision was announced on September 23, 2026.

The action comes amid heightened scrutiny of financial institutions linked to Iran and follows the UAE’s regulatory framework on combating money laundering and related financial risks. The restrictions further limit the ability of Bank Melli’s UAE operations to facilitate Iran-related financial and commercial transactions.

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The move also comes as the United States continues expanding sanctions against Iran and entities accused of supporting sanctions evasion. The U.S. Treasury has recently announced additional measures targeting Iranian financial networks and warned of increased secondary-sanctions exposure for foreign entities that continue doing business with Iran.