The introduction of Ministerial Decision No. 261 of 2024 marks a pivotal moment for family foundations in the UAE. By allowing eligible entities to apply for Unincorporated Partnerships in the UAE, the new framework offers a path to tax transparency, operational simplicity, and greater alignment with long-term legacy goals. However, taking advantage of this opportunity requires a deep understanding of both legal structure and strategic intent.

Foundations must now consider how their setup aligns with Unincorporated Partnership criteria, how pass-through taxation impacts beneficiaries, and what ongoing compliance will entail. From wealth preservation and succession planning to regulatory reporting and control, this shift brings both challenges and powerful potential for those looking to structure their foundations with clarity and purpose.

Understanding Unincorporated Partnerships in the UAE

An Unincorporated Partnership is a contractual arrangement between two or more parties who agree to carry on a business without creating a separate legal entity. Unlike corporations or other registered entities, Unincorporated partnerships are not distinct from legal persons, but they do offer some significant operational and tax advantages.

In the context of family foundations and private structures, the Unincorporated partnership model can be highly attractive:

• Pass-through tax treatment – Income is taxed at the partner or beneficiary level, not at the entity level.
• Operational simplicity – Unincorporated partnerships may involve less administrative complexity compared to incorporated entities.
• Alignment with purpose – The model naturally aligns with goals like wealth preservation, succession planning, and philanthropy.
• Mandatory registration – To access the benefits of the Unincorporated Partnership regime, entities must formally register and obtain approval from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Only after successful registration can the pass-through tax treatment and other provisions be applied.

Unincorporated Partnerships in the UAE: A Closer Look at Ministerial Decision No. 261 of 2024

Ministerial Decision No. 261 of 2024, issued by the UAE Ministry of Finance, provides clarity on how Unincorporated partnerships in the UAE will be treated for corporate tax purposes under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022.

Key Highlights:

• Effective Date: Retroactively applicable from 1 June 2023.
• Application Requirement: Entities seeking UP status must formally apply to the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
• Pass-Through Taxation: No tax is levied at the entity level. Instead, partners or beneficiaries assume the tax obligations directly.
• Annual Declaration: To retain UP status, a yearly declaration must be submitted, confirming ongoing eligibility.

This framework represents a significant strategic opportunity for family foundations looking to streamline compliance while aligning tax treatment with beneficiary outcomes.

Strategic Considerations for Family Foundations by Structuring Unincorporated Partnerships in the UAE

Before adopting the Unincorporated partnerships in the UAE, family foundations should weigh the following considerations:

1. Eligibility and Structure

Does the foundation’s legal setup and purpose qualify under the criteria for UP status? Structures already operating under a foundation law (like in DIFC or ADGM) may require careful alignment or restructuring.

2. Tax Treatment of Beneficiaries

Will the pass-through model be beneficial to the foundation’s beneficiaries? Consideration must be given to their personal tax circumstances (especially if they are tax-resident in other jurisdictions).

3. Compliance Obligations

Is the foundation equipped to manage the annual declaration and other regulatory responsibilities under the new regime?

4. Long-Term Objectives

Does this structure support the foundation’s strategic goals, including governance, legacy planning, and multi-generational control?

Simplifying Unincorporated Partnerships and Legacy Planning with MS

MS supports family foundations by offering a streamlined, end-to-end approach to structuring under the regime of Unincorporated Partnerships in the UAE. Our team begins by evaluating your current foundation setup and identifying the most tax-efficient options tailored to your goals. We handle the complete Unincorporated Partnership application process, including documentation and submission to the Federal Tax Authority, ensuring your structure meets all legal and regulatory requirements. To maintain compliance, we manage annual declarations and keep your foundation aligned with the latest tax law developments. Additionally, we provide strategic advice on legacy-focused tax planning, helping you structure intergenerational wealth transfers with simplicity, control, and long-term vision.