The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) appointed H.E. Mr. Hamid Saif Al Zaabi as its President for 2026 and H.E. Sheikha May bint Mohammed Al Khalifa as Vice President, and outlined the Presidency’s main priorities for the year. The 2026 work programme prioritises strengthening member countries’ preparedness for the third round of mutual evaluations, reinforcing MENAFATF’s governance framework, and supporting implementation of an action plan related to Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations to improve the effectiveness and clarity of MENAFATF procedures. Additional priorities include enhanced cooperation and coordination with international and regional partners and peer groups, supporting implementation of international standards through improved understanding of money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing risks and trends, and bolstering logistical resources at the MENAFATF Secretariat’s headquarters. MENAFATF also recognised the work of outgoing 2025 President H.E. Ms. Samya Abu Sharif and indicated it will continue working with member countries and observers to advance its strategic objectives.
Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) 2026-01-04
Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force names Hamid Saif Al Zaabi as 2026 President and sets priorities for mutual evaluation readiness and governance
The Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) appointed H.E. Mr. Hamid Saif Al Zaabi as President for 2026 and outlined priorities including strengthening member preparedness for mutual evaluations, reinforcing governance, and supporting FATF recommendation implementation. Additional focuses are enhancing cooperation with partners, understanding financial crime risks, and bolstering logistical resources at the Secretariat.