The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has opened a public consultation on proposed amendments to its Prescribed Company (PC) Regulations, aimed at expanding structuring options and enhancing the role of Corporate Service Providers (CSPs) within the Centre.
The proposed changes would remove existing eligibility requirements based on purpose, applicant type, and nexus, allowing any applicant to establish a Prescribed Company. DIFC officials say this expansion reflects the maturity of the Centre’s regulatory framework and its alignment with international tax transparency and reporting standards.
Amendments in Prescribed Company Regulations
Under the new framework, the Prescribed Company must appoint a DFSA-licensed CSP as their primary administrative and compliance interface with the DIFC Registrar of Companies. Exempt Prescribed Company may also appoint a CSP if desired.
The amendments mirror the criteria introduced in the recently enacted Variable Capital Company Regulations, reinforcing the broader responsibilities of CSPs. The proposed regulations further outline statutory duties and obligations for CSPs, along with enforcement measures to ensure accountability as the regime grows.
Jacques Visser, Chief Legal Officer at DIFC Authority, expressed the Centre’s support for the proposed changes, highlighting that the amended Prescribed Company Regulations would be opened for public consultation. He noted that the amendments would allow any applicant to access the regime, significantly broadening its scope, while also expanding the responsibilities and involvement of corporate service providers in the DIFC ecosystem.
In addition, proposed changes to DIFC Operating Regulations would clarify the Registrar’s authority to obtain financial and other information from registered persons and allow controlled disclosure for statistical purposes.
The consultation is open for 30 days, with comments accepted until June 2, 2026. Details of the proposed amendments are available in Consultation Paper No. 1 of 2026.
