As ownership interests move from the founders through the generations, many Saudi family groups are moving away from traditional partnerships and instead adopting corporate structures. These structures often involve establishing multiple holding companies to reflect the interests of different family members and agreed governance structures for decision-making within the family. Additionally, corporate structures have the benefit of limiting the liability for family members and allowing the adoption of clear decision-making structures, such as family constitutions.
Z&Co. has wide experience advising family groups on the adoption of such structures and the relevant governance issues. Such advice requires a keen awareness of both the use of offshore jurisdictions as well as the Sharia issues arising from desired succession structures.