NHMANAGEMENT
Structure, Protect and Govern WealthThrough UAE Foundations
End-to-end foundation structuring across ADGM and DIFC,
aligned with regulatory, governance and cross-border requirements.
300+
Entities structured across jurisdictions
15+
Jurisdictions supported
95%
Clients retention rate
Overview
What is a foundation
Foundations are typically used by individuals and families to hold assets, plan succession, and structure wealth across jurisdictions.
And why is it used?
- Established legal frameworks in DIFC and ADGM
- Asset protection and ring-fencing
- Flexible governance and control mechanisms
- Suitable for cross-border wealth structuring
Common Uses
Typical Applications
Structuring family wealth across generations
Holding shares in operating businesses
Ring-fencing assets from risk exposure
Establishing clear governance frameworks
Our Approach
Tailored Structuring, Long Term Thinking
Each foundation structure is designed in line with long-term objectives, governance requirements, and the broader context in which it operates.
- Jurisdiction advisory across DIFC and ADGM
- Structuring aligned with governance and control requirements
- Regulatory and documentation alignment
- Ongoing administration and compliance support
Our Process
A Structured Delivery Lifecycle
Each engagement follows a structured delivery lifecycle, from initial assessment through to ongoing governance and support.
Assess
Understand your structuring objectives and jurisdictional considerations
Advise
Advise on ADGM vs DIFC based on governance and control requirements
Coordinate
Coordinate documentation, regulatory submissions and setup
Support
Provide ongoing administration, compliance and governance
FAQs
What is the difference between a DIFC and ADGM foundation?
Both DIFC and ADGM foundations offer robust legal frameworks for asset holding and wealth structuring in the UAE. Key differences lie in governance flexibility, regulatory approach, and operational considerations. The appropriate jurisdiction depends on your structuring objectives, asset profile, and long-term requirements.
Who can establish a UAE private foundation?
A UAE private foundation can be established by individuals, families, or business owners looking to structure and protect assets, plan succession, or manage wealth across jurisdictions.
How long does it take to set up a foundation in the UAE?
The timeline to establish a UAE foundation depends on the jurisdiction and complexity of the structure. In most cases, a DIFC or ADGM foundation can be set up within a few weeks once documentation and requirements are finalised.
Can a UAE foundation hold international assets?
Yes. UAE foundations are commonly used to hold assets across multiple jurisdictions, making them suitable for cross-border wealth structuring and international asset ownership.
Are UAE foundations effective for asset protection?
UAE foundations are widely used for asset protection by separating ownership from personal exposure. When properly structured, they can help ring-fence assets while maintaining appropriate governance and control.
Is a UAE foundation suitable for succession planning?
Yes. UAE foundations are frequently used for succession and estate planning, enabling structured transfer of wealth across generations with defined governance, continuity, and control.
Can I retain control over assets within a UAE foundation?
Foundations are designed to separate ownership from control, while still allowing for defined governance mechanisms. The level of control depends on how the structure is established and the roles assigned within it.
What ongoing compliance is required for a UAE foundation?
Ongoing compliance requirements for UAE foundations typically include administration, governance maintenance, and regulatory filings, depending on the jurisdiction. These ensure the structure remains compliant and properly managed over time.
Discuss Your Structure with an Advisor
A Confidential, No-Obligation Discussion.
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