UAE Foundations
What is a UAE Foundation?
A Foundation registered in the United Arab Emirates is a separate legal entity with its own corporate personality. It is ideal for individuals, families, and businesses seeking a secure and perpetual structure for:
- Wealth protection
- Succession planning
- Holding and managing assets
- Charitable or philanthropic purposes
RAK ICC Foundations offer full control, confidentiality, and flexibility within a common law legal framework, with access to the DIFC or ADGM Courts.
Why Choose a UAE Foundation?
1. Asset Protection:
Shield assets from liabilities and maintain control.
2. Succession Planning:
Ensure a smooth and dispute-free transition across generations.
3. Confidentiality:
No public register of beneficiaries or By-Laws.
4. Perpetual Existence:
Survives beyond the Founder’s lifetime.
5. International Compliance:
Operates within a globally respected jurisdiction.
6. Cost-Effective:
Low setup and maintenance costs; no mandatory audit or public filing.
Key Roles & Their Requirements
| ROLE | APPOINTMENT | PURPOSE | EXAMPLES |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founder | ⚠️ Mandatory | Donates assets and defines the purpose. | Individual, family trust, holding company |
| Council Members | ⚠️ Mandatory (min. 2) | Administer the Foundation, manage assets. | Family members, legal advisor, corporate provider |
| Registered Agent | ⚠️ Mandatory | Licensed UAE intermediary; handles filings. | GWS Middle East FZE |
| Guardian | (only required if Foundation has charitable or non-charitable object) | Donates assets and defines the purpose. | Family advisor, elder, trusted third party |
The Role of the Charter & By-Laws
The UAE Foundation is governed by two legal documents:
1. Foundation Charter (public)
- Submitted to the Registrar at incorporation.
- Includes name, objectives, Council and Guardian appointments.
- Forms the official public record of the Foundation.
2. By-Laws (private & customizable)
The By-Laws are the internal rulebook of the Foundation. They are not disclosed
publicly — providing full privacy. The By-Laws define:
- Governance procedures and decision-making
- Roles and duties of the Council and Guardian
- Founder’s reserved powers (if any)
- Distribution policies and conditions for Qualified Recipients
- Processes for amendment and termination
- Tailored to family governance models, long-term wealth strategies, or philanthropic goals.
In short:
The Charter creates the Foundation, while the By-Laws control how it operates.
What Can a UAE Foundation Do?
- Hold and manage global assets
- Own shares in companies
- Receive and distribute dividends
- Serve as a family holding or succession vehicle
- Support charitable causes
- Preserve wealth through generations
Foundation Structure
Founder ➝ Foundation (via Council + optional Guardian) ➝ Qualified Recipients.
Assets are transferred to the Foundation and held in its name — separate from the Founder.
Why Form Your Foundation With GWS?
We are a fully licensed Corporate Service Provider and a recognized RAK ICC Registered Agent, authorized to form and administer Foundations, companies, and trusts. Our clients benefit from:
- Seamless regulatory cooperation through full local licensing and approvals.
- A broad international network of trusted partners: banks, lawyers, tax advisors, diplomats, real estate experts, insurers, and more.
- Deep experience in tailoring bespoke solutions to each client’s personal, family, or corporate goals.
- A comprehensive service portfolio that allows for one-stop advisory and execution across multiple jurisdictions.
- A truly global orientation, giving clients access to best-in-class structuring opportunities around the world.
Contact us now for a free consultation.
WE BUILD SOLUTIONS.