DMCC launches Foundations Regulations for private wealth structuring

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre has formally established Foundations Regulations, creating a new private wealth and structuring vehicle for high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and entrepreneurs. Under the new regime, a DMCC Foundation is recognized as a legal entity separate from its founder, councilors, guardian, and beneficiaries. Founders retain significant flexibility in structuring arrangements, including provisions covering beneficiaries, asset management, governance, and decision-making. A key feature is accessibility—DMCC Foundations can be established with initial assets starting from just USD 100. The framework enables assets to be held and managed in accordance with the foundation's objectives, providing mechanisms for long-term asset holding, succession planning, wealth preservation, and intergenerational continuity. DMCC is not the first to offer foundations in the UAE; ADGM introduced the region's first regime in 2017, followed by DIFC in 2018 and RAK ICC. DMCC has acknowledged that supporting guidance for establishing and administering foundations will be introduced in the coming weeks, with full application requirements to follow.