DMCC ADOPTS FOUNDATIONS REGULATIONS
On 23 September 2026, the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (“DMCC”) formally adopted the DMCCA Foundations Regulations (the “Regulations”), establishing a dedicated legal framework for private foundations within DMCC. DMCC presents the new structure as a vehicle for long-term asset ownership, succession planning and the governance of private and family wealth.
The new regime expands DMCC’s range of private wealth structuring solutions. In 2025, DMCC introduced Special Purpose Vehicle (“SPV”) and Holding Company (“HoldCo”) licences. Foundations now complement these existing structures.
Before the introduction of the DMCC foundations regime, private foundations in the UAE could be established only in ADGM, DIFC and RAK ICC. This option is now also available in DMCC, including to asset owners and groups that already structure their businesses through DMCC companies. It may enable them to consolidate the ownership of those companies and succession arrangements within a single jurisdiction, without establishing a foundation in another free zone or jurisdiction.
