Across the Arab region, banks are operating in a financial environment that is becoming more demanding, more interconnected, and far more exposed to global scrutiny. Regulatory expectations continue to rise, technology is reshaping how institutions operate, and stakeholders—local and international—are calling for stronger assurances of compliance and integrity. In this landscape, compliance is no longer a technical department; it is a core driver of institutional trust, credibility, and long-term stability.

In response to these challenges, the World Union of Arab Bankers is convening the Annual Compliance Forum 2025 in Jordan, bringing together senior leaders who influence policy, oversee compliance teams, and carry the responsibility of safeguarding their institutions. The forum offers a space for candid discussion, experience-sharing, and the exchange of practical insights drawn from real regional and international practice.

This year’s program examines the issues that are shaping modern compliance functions: reinforcing AML/CFT and sanctions controls; assessing the risks introduced by fintech, regtech, and the digital economy; embedding governance and ESG principles within daily operations; establishing sound privacy and data-protection frameworks; and ensuring compliance with global reporting expectations such as the Common Reporting Standard (CRS). Each topic is led by experts active in the field, bringing clarity to challenges that banks confront every day.

What distinguishes this forum is its emphasis on grounded, professional dialogue. It is designed for those who manage risk, guide institutional policy, and work closely with regulators and international partners. Jordan—recognized for its stable regulatory environment and rising financial ecosystem—offers an ideal setting for this regional gathering.

Through this forum, WUAB aims to support Arab banks in strengthening their internal structures, improving cross-border cooperation, and cultivating a compliance culture that is mature, modern, and ready for the demands of the years ahead.