DIFC Foundations

Governed by the modern and robust DIFC Foundations Law of 2018, the DIFC Foundation is a straightforward and effective solution for individuals and families to structure assets and succession plans.

What to expect from us

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the premier financial hub in the Middle East. With a reputation for being the best regulated jurisdiction in the region, DIFC is the ideal location for governance, asset structuring, and succession planning of private assets for Emirati and GCC families, UAE Resident, international investors, Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The DIFC Foundation regime is governed by Foundations Law DIFC Law No.3 of 2018 and regarded as one of the most modern foundation regimes, based on global best practices in an independent judicial system based on English Common Law. With our on-site extensive expertise and experience in the field, we are committed to providing you with robust and effective strategies designed to meet your unique needs and long-term goals.

Services at a glance

Benefit from a world-class jurisdiction and with the DIFC foundation a solid vehicle with tailor-made governance for asset structuring, consolidation as well as succession planning. Our team of experts takes an interdisciplinary approach to provide you with personalized solutions and delivering comprehensive assistance at every step of the process, such as:

Advise and assist to determine the appropriate structure and governance of the foundation.
Provide sample Charter and By-Laws, to be adapted to your requirements.
Establishment of the Foundation and submissions to the DIFC Registrar.
Registered Agent and provision of registered address in the DIFC.
Secretarial, Administrative, Accounting and Investment Reporting services.
Acting as Foundation Council Member or Guardian.
Opening of bank accounts for the Foundation.

Key Highlights on UAE Corporate Income Tax

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced Corporate Income Tax (UAE CT) for entities with financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023. The UAE CT regime offer several features to enable an effective reduction/mitigation of tax costs, including:

Exempt income: Dividends and participation exemption.
Tax deductions: Allowable deductions to reduce taxable income.
Tax reliefs: Provisions for foreign tax credits, foreign branch losses, unincorporated partnerships, and Family Foundation regime.
Group taxation: Options for tax consolidation and group relief.
Qualifying Free zone Person: Special tax treatment for entities in UAE Free Zones.

Details in our factsheet / notes here:

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What sets us apart

Comprehensive Approach

Having an interdisciplinary and cross-border approach brings unique benefits by combining diverse perspectives and expertise to solve complex challenges in effective ways with foresight.

High Quality of Service

At KENDRIS we take pride in providing high-quality service that lives up to highest Swiss standards. We understand the importance of dependability and strive to ensure that you can rely on prompt responses and personalised assistance.

Digital Solutions

We constantly invest in technology so clients can effectively administer their wealth through a single digital platform. Digital Family Office, Investment Reporting, ESG Reporting, Securities Accounting, and many more tools and solutions are accessible on our dedicated eKENDRIS portal.

Personal and without obligation – get in touch

Marcel Minger

Partner

BScBA, TEP / Dip(ITM)

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T +41 58 450 59 47

Julie Rouas

Managing Director KENDRIS DIFC

LL.M. Law

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T +971 4 248 9505

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