Family Foundation in ADGM in the UAE
from USD 5 950
Family Foundation in ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)
ADGM is one of the most advanced free zones in the UAE, offering a well-developed legal and regulatory framework. This gives foundations registered in ADGM a strong reputation among banks and other financial institutions.
Key Benefits:
- Separate legal personality: The foundation owns and manages assets in its own name and bears no liability for the obligations of the Founder or the beneficiaries;
- Low entry threshold and costs: Minimal initial assets and comparatively low registration fees;
- Flexible governance model: Both individuals and legal entities can be members of the Council or serve as Guardians, and the structure of the Council can be easily modified;
- Redomiciliation options: The foundation can be moved into or out of ADGM without the need for liquidation;
- Tax efficiency: The foundation may be exempt from corporate income tax. Tax obligations will arise only at the beneficiary level upon receipt of distributions from the foundation;
- No office lease required: The foundation’s registered address is provided by the registered agent.
Process and Timeline*
1 Preparation of the KYC package and draft founding documents – approximately 3 business days.
2 Submission of the application through a registered agent and payment of fees – 1 day.
3 Review of the free zone registration application — approximately 5–7 days (provided that a complete set of documents is submitted).
4 Issuance of the foundation’s incorporation documents certified by the free zone authority.
*Practical timelines are based on recent registrations by Smart Advisors Group; actual timing depends on the client’s promptness in providing required information.
Service Fees
Why Choose Smart Advisors Group?
A team of lawyers and tax consultants with over 10 years of experience in structuring family assets.
Full support — from concept development to opening bank accounts.
Fixed transparent pricing and a dedicated personal manager at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions:
A foundation is an independent legal entity without shareholders. Unlike a trust, it has separate legal personality, and unlike an offshore company, it is not owned directly by the beneficiary, so the assets are legally segregated.
Shares in companies, bank accounts, securities, real estate, intellectual property rights, yachts, and cryptocurrency (subject to additional approval by the broker/exchange).
No, residency is not required. Only one “authorized person” with a UAE visa is required, which we provide as part of our service.
Approximately 7–10 business days.
The timing depends on the speed of KYC checks and the completeness of documents.
There is no statutory minimum initial capital in ADGM; in practice, a nominal amount (e.g., USD 100) is sufficient to open a bank account.
Yes. The foundation’s board can update the register of beneficiaries and income distribution rules without re-registering the structure.
We’re Here to Answer Your Questions
Ready to discuss the purpose of your family foundation? Submit your request, and our consultant will contact you within one business day.
Book free consultation
