Foundations & Trusts Services in UAE

Secure your legacy, protect your assets, and simplify estate planning with world-class structures governed by UAE’s trusted jurisdictions.

Looking to safeguard family wealth or plan long-term philanthropic goals?

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Why Set Up a Foundation or Trust in the UAE?

Foundations and trusts are strategic legal vehicles designed to protect wealth, manage succession, and enable charitable giving—while maintaining confidentiality and compliance. In the UAE, especially in zones like DIFC and ADGM, these structures benefit from:

  • Robust Common Law frameworks
  • Zero income or capital gains tax
  • Global recognition for estate and succession planning
  • Full confidentiality, flexibility, and asset protection

 

Ideal for families, high-net-worth individuals, and businesses, UAE-based foundations and trusts serve as secure instruments to transfer wealth, reduce liabilities, and gain greater control over financial futures.

What’s the Difference Between a Trust and a Foundation?

Trust

A Trust is a legal arrangement where a settlor transfers assets to a trustee to manage for beneficiaries. It’s contract-based, with flexible terms to suit personal, financial, or charitable goals.

  • No legal personality
  • Trustee owns and manages assets
  • Confidential and adaptable
Foundation

A Foundation is a standalone legal entity, governed by a charter and typically used for family wealth, estate, or philanthropic purposes.

  • Has legal personality
  • Managed by a council/board
  • Ideal for asset holding, control, and legacy planning

 

Advantages of Foundations & Trusts in the UAE

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Asset Protection

Separate personal and business assets, shielding wealth from lawsuits or creditor claims.

Succession Planning

Ensure seamless intergenerational wealth transfer without legal or inheritance disputes.

Tax Efficiency

Benefit from UAE’s favorable tax environment with 0% income or capital gains tax.

Confidentiality

All details remain private, including beneficiaries, trustees, and asset holdings.

Philanthropy

Establish charitable foundations with full control over how and when donations are disbursed.

Flexibility & Control

Tailor terms, roles, and governance rules to meet specific family or business goals.

Risk Mitigation

Reduce exposure to business risks by holding assets in a secure, regulated entity.

Ofin Global’s Trust & Foundation Setup Services

  • Initial Assessment

    In-depth review of your wealth structure, goals, and family dynamics

  • Structure Design

    Recommend suitable setup: trust, foundation, or hybrid

  • Legal Documentation

    Draft trust deed, foundation charter, and governance bylaws

  • Registration & Compliance

    End-to-end setup with DIFC, ADGM, or free zone regulators

  • Tax & Legal Advisory

    Cross-border implications and tax-efficient structuring

  • Succession Planning

    Tailored provisions for wealth continuity and future control

Ofin Global’s Trust & Foundation Setup Services

  • Initial Assessment

    In-depth review of your wealth structure, goals, and family dynamics

  • Structure Design

    Recommend suitable setup: trust, foundation, or hybrid

  • Legal Documentation

    Draft trust deed, foundation charter, and governance bylaws

  • Registration & Compliance

    End-to-end setup with DIFC, ADGM, or free zone regulators

  • Tax & Legal Advisory

    Cross-border implications and tax-efficient structuring

  • Succession Planning

    Tailored provisions for wealth continuity and future control

Documents Required to Set Up a Trust or Foundation in the UAE

Document Type Trusts Foundations
Passport / ID of Settlor or Founder
Trust Deed / Foundation Charter
Trustee / Council Member IDs
Beneficiary Info
Optional
Asset Declaration
Bank Statements / Proof of Funds
Legal Entity Details (if applicable)
Optional
Optional

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is the main difference between a trust and a foundation in Dubai?

A trust is a private contract between a settlor and trustee, while a foundation is an incorporated legal entity managed by a council or board. Foundations offer more control and formal governance.

Do trusts and foundations pay tax in the UAE?

No. There is currently no income or capital gains tax for trusts or foundations in the UAE. However, the tax status of the settlor or beneficiaries in other countries may impact global reporting.

Can I set up a trust or foundation even if I’m not a UAE resident?

Yes. Non-residents can establish both structures in the UAE, particularly in DIFC and ADGM, subject to compliance and due diligence.

Is it possible to use these structures for family businesses or real estate?

Absolutely. Both trusts and foundations are ideal for asset holding, real estate portfolios, intellectual property, or family office management.

What is the cost and timeline for setup?

Typical setup costs range from USD 8,000–20,000, depending on the structure and jurisdiction. Setup time is 4–8 weeks, subject to document readiness and approvals.

Secure your assets, plan for tomorrow, and leave a legacy with confidence.