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Protect Your Assets and Legacy with Foundation Setup in ADGM
ADGM Foundations offer a robust, internationally recognized legal structure tailored for High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), families, and businesses seeking to safeguard wealth, structure succession, and preserve assets across generations. Designed for flexibility and efficiency, they feature low setup and maintenance costs, no minimum capital requirements, and no need for a physical office, only a registered ADGM address via an authorized Corporate Service Provider (CSP). Whether used for estate planning, corporate structuring, tax planning, or philanthropic initiatives, ADGM Foundations strike the perfect balance between regulatory compliance, confidentiality, and operational efficiency.
read moreAre ADGM Foundations required to file annual returns or audited financial statements?
Are there different categories for setting up a foundation in ADGM?
- Exempt applicants may establish and manage their foundation independently, without the need for a Company Service Provider (CSP).
- Non-Exempt applicants are required to appoint an ADGM-registered CSP to handle the foundation's setup and ongoing administration.
ADGM Foundation Setup & Governance
Foundation Charter & Legal Framework
Every foundation is established through a charter, which serves as its legal blueprint. The charter defines:
- Name (must end with "Foundation")
- Purpose (private, charitable, or commercial)
- Registered office and agent within ADGM
- Governance rules (Council duties, asset management, distribution powers)
- Financial reporting obligations
Founders may also draft confidential bylaws, which outline:
- Internal operational rules
- Voting procedures
- Succession protocols
- Discretionary beneficiary rights
Roles & Governance for ADGM Foundation Setup
Council
The foundation's decision-making body:
- Minimum 2 members (individuals or corporate entities)
- Responsible for managing assets and fulfilling the foundation's objectives
- Owes fiduciary duties to the foundation
Founder
The individual or entity that establishes the foundation:
- May serve on the council (optional)
- Can retain influence through bylaws or council membership
Guardian
- Oversees council decisions
- Ensures alignment with the foundation's purpose
Beneficiaries
- Can be structured flexibly
- May be discretionary
- Provides privacy and adaptability
Registered Office & Capital Requirements
- A registered office in ADGM is mandatory
- Appointment of a licensed registered agent is required
- No minimum capital requirement, but initial assets must be sufficient to meet the foundation's purpose
- Registration grants legal personality under UAE law
Assets may include:
Ongoing Compliance & Reporting for Setting Up an ADGM Foundation
Maintaining an ADGM Foundation requires adherence to regulatory and governance obligations.
- Ensure compliance with ADGM regulations
- Monitor AML/CFT obligations
- Maintain statutory records
- Communicate with regulators
- File confirmation statements (activity status, council members, registered office, beneficial ownership)
- Report material changes (charter amendments, council updates, guardian or founder changes)
- Mandatory appointment of a registered agent
- Subject to regulatory monitoring and compliance oversight
Need a Licensed Registered Agent in ADGM?
Secure your foundation’s legal standing with our fully compliant registered agent services.
ADGM Family Foundation for Succession and Asset Protection
A UAE-based entrepreneur sought to ensure smooth business succession, protect family wealth, and maintain income continuity. His portfolio included:
- A trading company generating steady revenue
- Income-generating real estate across the UAE
He wanted a solution that combined structured governance, asset protection, and controlled distributions while minimizing family disputes or creditor exposure.
Key Challenges
Succession Uncertainty
Direct ownership of assets could result in inheritance disputes among heirs.
Asset Exposure
Personal ownership made assets vulnerable to potential creditor claims.
Income Continuity
Wanted uninterrupted cash flow for family needs while maintaining structured control over distributions.
Structure Implemented
An ADGM Family Foundation was established as the primary holding entity:
Outcome
Asset Protection
Shielded family assets from inheritance disputes and creditor claims.
Income Continuity
Enabled structured and uninterrupted cash flow for beneficiaries.
Governance Clarity
Defined roles and responsibilities reduced ambiguity and improved oversight.
Succession Planning
Ensured orderly and controlled transfer of wealth across generations.
Protect Your Assets and Plan Succession with Certainty
Discover how a bespoke ADGM foundation can safeguard wealth and ensure seamless transitions.
Key Features of an ADGM Foundation Setup
Why Choose MS
for Your ADGM Foundation Setup Services?
Setting up an ADGM Foundation requires careful handling of legal structuring, governance frameworks, and documentation. While ADGM offers a flexible and cost-efficient foundation regime, establishing one correctly demands both technical precision and local expertise. MS ensures a seamless setup process tailored to your objectives. From selecting the right structure to drafting charters, appointing council members, and ensuring ongoing administration, we manage every detail. Our collaborative approach gives you the confidence of regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and a foundation designed to secure your wealth, legacy, and long-term goals.
Setting up an ADGM Foundation requires careful handling of legal structuring, governance frameworks, and documen... read more
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