{"id":155,"date":"2023-02-09T11:39:24","date_gmt":"2023-02-09T11:39:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/iqeq.com\/ae\/services\/trust-foundation-administration\/"},"modified":"2026-07-06T07:54:32","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T07:54:32","slug":"foundation-services","status":"publish","type":"service","link":"https:\/\/iqeq.com\/ae\/services\/foundation-services\/","title":{"rendered":"Foundation services"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n \n Overview <\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n
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IQ\u2011EQ provides specialist foundation establishment and administration services in the UAE, supporting clients looking to structure and preserve wealth through DIFC and ADGM foundations.<\/p>\n

With dedicated teams on the ground in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), we help founders, families and advisors implement well\u2011governed foundation structures aligned with international best practice.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n

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What is a UAE foundation?<\/h2>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n
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A foundation is an independent legal entity that combines features of both a trust and a company. Often referred to as an \u2018orphan structure\u2019, a foundation has no shareholders or members, making it a powerful vehicle for:<\/p>\n

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  • Wealth preservation and succession planning<\/li>\n
  • Asset protection and long\u2011term continuity<\/li>\n
  • Holding operating companies, investments or real estate<\/li>\n
  • Family office and private wealth structuring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    DIFC and ADGM foundations can be established for charitable or non\u2011charitable purposes and benefit from flexible governance arrangements tailored to the founder\u2019s objectives.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n

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    Why establish a foundation in DIFC or ADGM?<\/h2>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n
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    The UAE is a leading jurisdiction for international wealth structuring, with DIFC and ADGM offering robust, internationally recognised legal frameworks.<\/p>\n

    Key advantages include:<\/p>\n

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    • Common law frameworks supporting global investor confidence<\/li>\n
    • Independent legal personality and asset ring\u2011fencing<\/li>\n
    • Flexible governance, including bespoke charters and by\u2011laws<\/li>\n
    • Succession planning certainty, avoiding fragmentation on death or incapacity<\/li>\n
    • Tax\u2011efficient structuring, subject to qualifying conditions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Both DIFC and ADGM foundations may hold a wide range of asset classes without restriction, including operating companies, financial investments and real estate.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n

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      How we support your UAE foundation<\/h2>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n
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      IQ\u2011EQ delivers end\u2011to\u2011end foundation services in DIFC and ADGM, from initial setup through to long\u2011term administration. We provide comparative guidance to help clients determine the most appropriate structure for their needs.<\/p>\n

      Our services include:<\/p>\n

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      • Foundation formation and regulatory filings<\/li>\n
      • Corporate secretarial and council support<\/li>\n
      • Provision of independent council members<\/li>\n
      • Accounting, bookkeeping and audit coordination<\/li>\n
      • Regulatory and tax compliance support<\/li>\n
      • Ongoing administration and governance oversight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        We also work closely with leading legal and tax advisers to ensure each foundation is appropriately structured and compliant.<\/p>\n

        Addressing real\u2011world private wealth needs<\/h3>\n

        Foundations are increasingly used by high\u2011net\u2011worth individuals and families in the UAE to move away from personal ownership and implement robust governance and succession frameworks.<\/p>\n

        IQ\u2011EQ has supported clients using DIFC and ADGM foundations to professionalise complex asset portfolios, simplify administration and prepare for inter\u2011generational transfer.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n

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        Why choose IQ\u2011EQ?<\/h2>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n
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        • Established presence in DIFC and ADGM<\/li>\n
        • Deep expertise across private wealth, corporate and alternative assets<\/li>\n
        • Integrated global network across major financial centres<\/li>\n
        • Consistent governance and reporting standards worldwide<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Whether you are establishing a new foundation or transitioning an existing structure, IQ\u2011EQ provides the experience and local insight to support your objectives.<\/p>\n

          Speak to our UAE Team<\/h3>\n

          To discuss how a DIFC or ADGM foundation could support your wealth structuring or succession planning needs, contact our local specialists.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n

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