DMCC today announced the launch of its Foundations Regulations, which will increase the number of private wealth and asset structuring solutions available to its members.
DMCC first announced its plans for the development of a Foundations structure in June this year, and following market consultations, international benchmarking and an analysis of existing foundation regimes, DMCC has unveiled its Foundations framework, designed to increase flexibility in the management and preservation of assets in the long term.
Designed for high net worth individuals, family offices, entrepreneurs and international private wealth clients looking to adopt a structured solution to asset management and preservation in the long run.
DMCC Foundations are legal entities distinct from the Founder, Councillors, Guardian and Beneficiaries.
It will provide a vehicle for the management and protection of assets in line with the objectives and governance of the Foundation. It will serve as a tool for long-term asset management, succession planning and wealth preservation.
The DMCC Foundations structure gives flexibility in determining the operations and governance of the Foundation.
Foundations may make provisions concerning:
Some of the powers may be reserved by the founders or other persons. Such powers might include power concerning investments, appointments, and beneficiaries.
A DMCC Foundation can be established with minimum capital of USD 100.
The launch of the Foundations represents an extension of the range of private capital solutions being offered by DMCC.
DMCC earlier launched SPVs and HoldCos in the year 2025. The Foundation structure is an addition to those, representing an emphasis on sustainability of ownership and governance.
The new solution portfolio is a complement to the other offerings available within the DMCC Private Wealth environment, which includes the DMCC Wealth Hub and DMCC FinX.
Ahmed Bin Sulayem, the Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, says that the creation of Foundations is just another step in the development of the company's offering for private wealth.
It is claimed by Ahmed Bin Sulayem that the growing amount of capital in Dubai necessitates more complex structures in terms of investment.
The Foundation Framework is meant to assist clients interested in developing their strategies concerning long-term ownership and management of assets.
Its objectives include:
In addition to that, the Foundation Framework links wealth structuring with DMCC's overall business environment.
DMCC is now working towards completing all aspects needed for the roll-out of its Foundations product.
Guidance documents on how to establish and manage a DMCC Foundation, including an efficient digital onboarding procedure, will be launched within the next few weeks.
Individuals who wish to apply for a DMCC Foundation can already register with DMCC through its Foundations product.
As the new regulations come into effect, Foundations add another structuring option for individuals, families, entrepreneurs and private wealth clients looking for a framework focused on asset ownership, governance and long-term continuity.
DMCC Foundation registration is not currently open. DMCC has stated that it is completing the remaining steps for the launch of the new framework. These include guidance covering the establishment and administration of a DMCC Foundation, as well as a digital onboarding process, which are expected to be introduced in the coming weeks.
For now, interested individuals and businesses can register their interest with DMCC. Details such as the registration process, supporting requirements and applicable fees are expected to become clearer once the remaining rollout materials are published.
If you are already planning your business structure, you can continue with the operating side of your business while waiting for the Foundation framework to become available. This may include Company Registration in UAE, selecting an appropriate jurisdiction, preparing corporate documentation and completing other requirements related to your business structure.
Setting up a suitable operating structure is an important part of establishing and managing a business in the UAE. Whether you are considering Company formation in Dubai, a free zone structure or another UAE business setup option, the right licence and corporate documentation can help create a clear foundation for your business.
GRG UAE Free Zone can assist with the practical aspects of business establishment, including:
For businesses researching different jurisdictions, understanding the List of Free Zone companies and the structures available within each jurisdiction can also be an important part of the planning process.
If you already hold a DMCC licence or are considering where to establish a holding structure in the UAE, you can contact GRG UAE Free Zone to discuss your existing entities and available setup options.
The establishment of the DMCC Foundations Regulations introduces another structure for individuals, families, entrepreneurs and private wealth clients seeking long-term asset holding, succession planning, wealth preservation and governance arrangements.
The framework establishes the Foundation as a separate legal entity from its founder, councillors, guardian and beneficiaries. It also allows certain powers to be reserved by founders or other designated persons, while initial assets can start from USD 100.
However, the Foundation registration process is not yet open. DMCC has not yet published the registration or renewal fees, and supporting guidance and the digital onboarding process are still being finalised.
As DMCC moves towards the full rollout in the coming weeks, prospective applicants can register their interest with DMCC and follow the publication of the remaining guidance.
For businesses that are currently planning Company Registration in UAE, Company formation in Dubai or Business setup in Dubai, the existing UAE business setup options remain relevant while the new DMCC Foundation framework moves towards launch.
Source: DMCCA DMCC Foundation is an independent legal entity created in accordance with the DMCC Foundations Regulations, officially launched on 23 September 2026. It is a legally distinct entity from its founders, councillors, guardian, and beneficiaries. The Foundation owns and manages assets in accordance with its own objectives and structure.
The cost of registering and renewing DMCC Foundations has not been announced yet by DMCC. However, the official statement says that a DMCC Foundation can be formed with minimum initial assets of USD 100. This USD 100 is the initial capital of the Foundation and not the registration cost. More details about costs will be shared via guidance that DMCC is going to launch in the coming weeks.
Registration of a DMCC Foundation is currently unavailable. As of 23 September 2026, DMCC is finalising the market rollout, which involves launching guidance on forming and managing Foundations and an online registration process expected in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, interested parties may register their interest with DMCC.
The DMCC Foundation structure is a long-term structure, while DMCC SPVs and Holding Companies represent other structuring and ownership options. SPV and Holding Company licences were launched at DMCC in 2025 for businesses present in global markets. Foundation structures do not involve any shareholder involvement, unlike other structures. Instead, they are governed through their own governance mechanism, including a council and a guardian.
Yes, the foundation structure regime exists in other UAE jurisdictions such as DIFC, ADGM and RAK ICC. This has been done to structure assets in the UAE. The DMCC Foundation structure regime serves as an additional option for asset structuring, where the foundation can be set up in the same jurisdiction as the underlying business.