Protect your wealth with a UAE Trust

Federal trusts are regulated under UAE’s Federal Trust Law, which applies across the country. These trusts are ideal for individuals seeking straightforward asset protection and succession planning within the UAE. They are recognized as legal entities, meaning they can own and manage assets directly under the trust’s name.

DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) trusts, on the other hand, are governed by a common law framework modeled after global trust jurisdictions like the UK and Singapore. DIFC trusts offer greater flexibility and are designed for international clients with multi-jurisdictional needs. They are widely recognized globally, making them the preferred choice for managing complex estates or international assets.

Setting up a trust in the UAE typically takes 2-4 weeks. This timeframe includes drafting the trust deed, appointing a trustee, and completing the registration process. Federal trusts may be quicker to establish due to their streamlined registration process, whereas DIFC trusts, with their more detailed legal requirements and global scope, may take slightly longer. Working with experts like Aston VIP can significantly reduce the time required by ensuring all documentation and processes are handled efficiently.

Yes, UAE trusts are designed to manage assets worldwide. This includes properties, bank accounts, investments, intellectual property, and business shares located in different countries. DIFC trusts are particularly suited for global asset management due to their international recognition and adherence to common law principles. By placing all your global assets under a single UAE trust, you simplify management, reduce legal risks, and protect your wealth across multiple jurisdictions.

Absolutely. Confidentiality is one of the key benefits of establishing a trust in the UAE. Details about the settlor, beneficiaries, and the trust’s assets are not made publicly accessible. This ensures that your financial affairs remain private, protecting you from unwanted scrutiny. The UAE’s robust privacy laws make it an attractive jurisdiction for high-net-worth individuals seeking discreet wealth management solutions. DIFC trusts, in particular, uphold international privacy standards, further enhancing confidentiality.

Trusts provide robust asset protection by transferring legal ownership of your assets from you (the settlor) to the trust. Once in the trust, these assets are shielded from creditors, lawsuits, and other claims. Additionally, trusts can include specific clauses, such as spendthrift provisions, to protect beneficiaries from squandering their inheritance or exposing assets to their personal creditors. This structure ensures that your wealth is preserved for its intended purpose, whether that’s supporting your family or charitable endeavors.

The ability to modify a trust depends on its type:

• Revocable Trusts: These allow the settlor to make changes, add beneficiaries, or even dissolve the trust at any time. This flexibility is ideal if your circumstances or goals are likely to change.
• Irrevocable Trusts: Once established, these trusts cannot be altered. While less flexible, they provide stronger asset protection and greater tax advantages.

Choosing the right type of trust at the outset is crucial, and Aston VIP can help you assess your current and future needs to make the best decision.

Yes, UAE trusts, especially those established in the DIFC, are recognized internationally. DIFC trusts follow common law principles, aligning with trust jurisdictions like the UK, Cayman Islands, and Singapore. This international recognition makes DIFC trusts particularly valuable for managing cross-border estates and ensuring compliance with global legal standards. While federal trusts are less internationally recognized, they are still effective for local and regional asset management.

UAE trusts are highly flexible and can accommodate a wide range of assets, including:

• Real Estate: Properties located within the UAE or abroad.
• Financial Investments: Stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles.
• Bank Accounts: Both local and international accounts.
• Business Shares: Ownership in private or public companies.
• Intellectual Property: Trademarks, copyrights, patents, and royalties.
• Other Assets: Art collections, jewelry, and other valuable personal possessions.

With the right planning, nearly any asset can be placed in a trust, ensuring it is protected and managed according to your wishes.

Yes, the UAE is a tax-free jurisdiction, meaning trusts established here are not subject to income, inheritance, or capital gains taxes. This makes UAE trusts particularly attractive for high-net-worth individuals and families looking to minimize their tax obligations. For international clients, UAE trusts can also be structured to optimize tax efficiency in other jurisdictions. Consulting with a tax professional is recommended to fully understand the benefits based on your unique circumstances.

The cost of setting up a trust in the UAE depends on several factors, including:

• The type of trust (federal or DIFC).
• The complexity of the trust deed and the assets involved.
• Professional fees for legal, financial, and administrative support.

On average, costs can range from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000 or more for more complex arrangements. At Aston VIP, we provide transparent pricing and tailored solutions to ensure you receive the best value for your investment. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your needs.