If you want to create a trust in Dubai, our specialists can guide you through the legal formalities. This article provides information about trusts in Dubai, procedures of registration, and other details if you are interested in the protection of assets through this kind of legal arrangement. Please explore the following lines and then discuss further details with our specialists in opening a company in Dubai.
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Requirements for setting up a trust in Dubai
There are two ways of creating a trust in Dubai:
- by drafting a will;
- by preparing a deed of trust, also known as a codicil.
Creating a trust in Dubai is not difficult, as the DIFC Authority, the main body in charge of the recognition and registration of trusts, does not impose restrictions on those interested in using this type of entity to protect their estates. Both local and foreign citizens are welcome to establish trusts in the Dubai International Financial Centre Free Zone. Moreover, they can set up the following types of trusts:
- charitable trusts;
- non-charitable trusts;
- express trusts;
- protective trusts.
Our Dubai company formation consultants can explain the differences between the types of trusts enumerated above.
Parties involved in a trust in Dubai
It should be noted that establishing a trust in DIFC implies a settlor – the person creating the trust, a trustee- the person or company in charge of the administration of the trust, and the beneficiary or beneficiaries- those benefitting from the assets held in the trust.
The Dubai legislation allows for the trust to be established for a limited or unlimited period of time, but it also provides for its termination prior to the time settled in the deed. Dubai trusts must be registered with the DIFC Authority, and any issue that may arise will be handled by the DIFC Court of Law.
What assets can be part of a trust in Dubai?
When you want to establish a trust in Dubai, you will know exactly what assets you want to protect. Properties, cash, funds, securities, and business shares can be stipulated in a trust in Dubai. The same document will also specify who the beneficiaries of wealth through a trust are, as determined by the settlor. Importantly, a trust in Dubai can be seen as a succession tool where wealth is distributed according to your plans. Details about this legal agreement can be provided by our Dubai agents. Our specialists can also help you with setting up a business in Dubai and the ways in which a trust can be established from the start.
What information should a trust in Dubai contain?
When you want to set up a trust in Dubai, you should know that this legal arrangement must contain the following:
- information about the settlor, trustee, and beneficiary of the trust in question,
- purpose of the trust,
- type/nature of assets involved in a trust,
- specification of the term trust and designation of trustee,
- powers and authorities through the trust in question,
- conditions connected to the trust assets management,
- the outcomes when terminating the trust established in Dubai.
Considering these aspects, you can have a clear picture of trusts in Dubai. Do not hesitate to discuss further details with our experts in Dubai, including for opening a company in Dubai, if you have such plans.
Dubai, home to a significant number of wealthy people
Dubai is one of the most popular and appreciated business destinations in the world. As the business climate is one of the most permissive and attractive, it is natural that in this landscape a large number of wealthy individuals can be found. Here are some data in this regard:
- In 2024, there were over 81,200 millionaires in Dubai and around 20 billionaires.
- The last decade has recorded an increase of over 102% in the number of millionaires in Dubai.
Besides assistance in establishing a trust in Dubai, our clients can also benefit from other services. For example, we can offer specialized assistance in immigration to Dubai and related legal procedures. We invite you to contact our consultants in company formation in Dubai and learn more about the services we offer.