The DIFC Foundation is a robust legal structure designed to hold assets, manage succession, and ensure privacy over wealth and estate matters. Operating within the DIFC—Dubai’s premier financial jurisdiction—the foundation is recognized globally and ideal for private clients, family offices, and business owners seeking continuity, control, and asset security.
At Emira Legal, we simplify the setup process from drafting legal documents to securing registration and managing compliance. Whether for intergenerational planning, charitable giving, or corporate restructuring, we tailor the foundation to fit your unique goals.
Our Process
Chose your required Service and Pay on our website
Send required documents to us when asked
Stay updated until the work is finished
Receive the Deliverables Soft copy and Hard Copies
Documents Required
To initiate a DIFC Foundation setup, you’ll typically need:
- Passport copies of founder(s), council member(s), and guardian (if appointed)
- Foundation name and purpose
- Proof of UAE residency or entry stamp (if applicable)
- Detailed structure: roles, governance model, and asset purpose
- Corporate documents (if founder is a company)
Deliverables
When you set up a DIFC Foundation with Emira Legal, you receive:
- Foundation name reservation
- Drafting of Foundation Charter and By-Laws
- Appointment of Founder, Council, and (optional) Guardian
- Assistance with defining beneficiaries or purpose
- Registration with DIFC Registrar of Foundations
- Dedicated registered address and service provider (if needed)
- Ongoing legal and compliance support
How DIFC Fooundation Setup Works
1
Consultation & Structuring
We understand your needs—succession planning, asset protection, or philanthropy—and recommend the most effective DIFC Foundation setup.
2
Drafting Legal Documents
We prepare and tailor the Foundation Charter and By-Laws in line with DIFC regulations.
3
Name Reservation & Application Filing
We reserve your foundation name and file the application with the DIFC Registrar of Foundations.
4
Registration & Compliance
Your foundation is officially registered within 5–10 working days, and we ensure compliance with governance and reporting requirements.
5
Ongoing Support
Post-registration, we assist with bank account setup, structure modifications, filings, and ongoing legal advisory.
Why DIFC Foundation Setup Should Be Done
DIFC Foundations provide a trusted and legally recognized structure for managing personal and corporate wealth. They offer greater protection than traditional vehicles like trusts, with full legal personality, defined governance, and privacy. Whether used to safeguard real estate, shares, or family assets, a DIFC Foundation gives you control over the present and future, in a jurisdiction known for transparency and legal integrity.
What is a DIFC Foundation?
A DIFC Foundation is a common law-based legal entity governed by the DIFC Foundations Law. Unlike a company, it has no shareholders and is designed to hold assets for beneficiaries or a specific purpose. Managed by a council and optionally overseen by a guardian, it is widely used for estate planning, wealth preservation, and family governance. Its separate legal personality ensures that assets are protected, confidential, and shielded from personal liability or business risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. DIFC Foundations can be set up by residents and non-residents, including foreign individuals and corporate entities.
While both serve similar purposes, a DIFC Foundation is a standalone legal entity, unlike a trust, which is a contractual relationship.
Costs vary depending on structure, services, and purpose. Government fees typically start around USD 1,500, excluding legal and advisory fees.
It can hold local and international assets including shares, real estate, intellectual property, investments, and bank accounts.
Typically, between 5 to 10 business days, depending on documentation and authority approval.
Only in cases where the foundation is charitable or orphan (without beneficiaries). It’s optional for private foundations but recommended for oversight.
es. The Charter and By-Laws can be amended as long as the governing rules are followed.