New Saudi Law to Manage Seized AML Funds

Saudi Arabia has approved a new law regulating the management of seized and confiscated funds in money laundering, predicate offenses, and terrorist-financing cases, with the framework set to take effect in 2026. The Cabinet gave its approval to the 15-article law, which establishes clear rules for how such assets are preserved and handled.

Under the new framework, the relevant authority becomes responsible for preserving and managing seized assets after a court order and at the request of the competent authority. This aims to ensure that funds tied to financial crime cases are safeguarded and properly administered throughout legal proceedings.

The law also gives the authority's board room to set management policies and to engage specialized Saudi public or private entities to handle technically complex assets. In addition, dedicated accounts may be opened at the Saudi Central Bank or at licensed banks to hold seized funds, adding a layer of transparency and oversight.

Why it matters

The measure is a judicial and asset-management framework rather than a public service, so it does not involve application steps or fees for individuals. Its significance lies in strengthening the Kingdom's ability to track, secure, and manage the proceeds of financial crime, reinforcing the integrity of the wider financial system that residents and businesses rely on.

Separately, a 2026 amendment to anti-money-laundering rules expanded confiscation powers in money-laundering cases and introduced travel bans for convicted offenders for a period equal to their prison term, further tightening the response to financial crime in the Kingdom.

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