Transaction Monitoring Analyst

Job description / Role

About the role

We are seeking experienced transaction monitoring analysts to join a fast-paced financial crime project for a leading financial institution in Dubai. This is a contract-based role focused on clearing a significant backlog of transaction monitoring alerts in line with internal policies and local regulatory expectations.

The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience in transaction monitoring, a good understanding of AML typologies, and a high level of accuracy and efficiency under time-sensitive conditions.

Key responsibilities

• Review and investigate large volumes of transaction monitoring alerts related to potential suspicious activity.
• Identify unusual patterns, behaviors, or red flags using pre-set rules and AML typologies.
• Conduct initial investigations, document rationale, and close false positives or escalate genuine suspicious cases.
• Draft clear and concise alert narratives and escalation summaries as per policy.
• Work within tight SLAs and productivity targets to support backlog clearance objectives.
• Collaborate with team leads, quality assurance teams, and compliance where necessary.
• Ensure full auditability of all work completed and maintain compliance with internal procedures and regulatory standards.

Key requirements

• 1–3 years’ experience in AML transaction monitoring roles, preferably within a financial institution or consultancy.
• Working knowledge of UAE regulatory expectations and international AML frameworks (e.g., FATF, Wolfsberg).
• Familiarity with transaction monitoring systems (e.g., Actimize, SAS AML, FICO, or similar platforms).
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in identifying suspicious patterns or potential financial crime.
• Proven ability to manage high alert volumes and meet daily review targets.
• Clear written communication skills, particularly in drafting alert closures and escalation justifications.
• Self-motivated and able to work effectively in a fast-paced, target-driven project environment.

Preferred qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, law, or a related field.
• AML certifications such as CAMS, ICA, or equivalent are desirable.
• Arabic language proficiency is a plus, but not required.

What’s on offer

• Opportunity to contribute to a high-impact financial crime project.
• Work with a leading bank or consultancy operating in the UAE.
• Competitive contract day rate.
• Exposure to regional AML regulatory practices and large-scale alert environments.