Offshore Company Formation in Dubai, UAE

The UAE offers a strategic way for offshore businesses to take advantage of tax advantages, asset protection, and privacy. Entrepreneurs can operate with full foreign ownership and access global markets, making it an attractive option for international investors seeking a cost-effective base.

Business Setup
Trade License
Tax Advisory
Corporate Bank Account
Compliance Management
Residence Visa Support
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Overview

What is an Offshore Company?

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An offshore company in the UAE is a business entity that has been set up outside the mainland of the UAE but within the designated offshore jurisdiction. These companies are basically used for asset protection, tax benefits, and international trade. 

The offshore company provides full foreign ownership, privacy, and minimal regulatory oversight, hence becoming the most apt option for global investors and businesses willing to operate on a global scale while getting benefits from the favorable UAE tax environment. 

On the other hand, offshore companies are restricted from doing business directly in the UAE mainland and are normally used for holding assets or intellectual property or even conducting business abroad.

UAE Offshore Company Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

Full Foreign Ownership

Investors can fully own their offshore company without the need for a local partner or sponsor.

Tax Exemptions

Tax Exemptions

Exempt from corporate tax, income tax, and capital gains tax, withholding tax on dividends or interest payments.

Limited Liability

Limited Liability

Shareholders are protected from personal liability for the debts and obligations.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Privacy and Confidentiality

The identities of shareholders and directors can remain private, protecting sensitive business information from public scrutiny.

Currency Stability

Currency Stability

The UAE Dirham is pegged to the US dollar.

Access to Global Markets

Access to Global Markets

The offshore license is recognised globally.

Strong Legal Framework

Strong Legal Framework

A well-established legal system that is tailored for offshore businesses.

International Funding Opportunities

Easy accessibility to global funding sources.

Types of Offshore Company Structures

International Business Company (IBC)
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The most common offshore structure is utilized for international trading, holding of assets, and management of intellectual property. It offers 100% foreign ownership, privacy, and tax exemptions. IBCs are ideal for businesses operating outside the UAE and not intending to engage in mainland business activities.

Offshore Holding Company
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The main purpose of an offshore holding company is to hold shares of other companies, both in the UAE and worldwide. It offers the same tax benefits and privacy, but it is more focused on asset management and investment holdings.

Offshore Trust Company
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This structure is used for asset protection and estate planning. It allows business owners to transfer their assets into a trust, protecting them from creditors and providing privacy. Offshore trusts are commonly used in wealth management and succession planning.

Offshore Trust Company
civil company in dubai mainland

This structure is used for asset protection and estate planning. It allows business owners to transfer their assets into a trust, protecting them from creditors and providing privacy. Offshore trusts are commonly used in wealth management and succession planning.

Free Zone Offshore Company
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Some free zones in the UAE allow for offshore company registration, with specific benefits available such as banking facilities and property ownership. This is for companies wanting the best of both worlds: the advantages of an offshore jurisdiction coupled with the benefits of being in a free zone.

UAE Offshore Company Licenses Available

  • Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
    Offers offshore company registration across various industries including international trade, investments, and asset holding companies.
  • Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)
    Offers offshore company registration across various industries including real estate investments and holding companies
  • Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)
    Offers offshore company registration across various industries including for international trading and asset holding.

Documents Required for UAE Offshore Companies

Here is the table with documents required for setting up UAE Offshore Companies, categorized by corporate and individual shareholders:

Documents Required for Individual and Corporate Shareholders
Document Individual Shareholder Corporate Shareholder
Passport Copy Tick Tick
UAE Residence Visa (for UAE residents) Tick Tick
Emirates ID (for UAE residents) Tick Tick
Utility Bill or Tenancy Contract Tick Tick
Business Plan Tick Tick
No Objection Certificate (NOC) Tick
Bank Reference Letter Tick Tick
Memorandum of Association (MOA) Tick Tick
Articles of Association (AOA)
Power of Attorney (POA) Tick
Shareholder Resolution (for Corporate Shareholders) Tick
Curriculum Vitae (CV) Tick Tick
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UAE Offshore Company Setup Process

Timeline: 4 to 8 weeks

01 Initial Consultation

Engage a business setup consultant or offshore service provider to discuss your business goals, structure, and requirements.

Takes 1 to 2 days

02   Application Submission

The relevant authority will review the application and reserve the proposed company name, ensuring it complies with naming regulations.

Takes 1 day

03   Name Reservation

ADGM reviews the application and reserves the company name, ensuring it complies with their naming conventions and guidelines.

Takes 1 day

04 Document Preparation

Gather necessary documentation and fill any forms required

Takes 2 to 3 days

05 Payment of Fees 

Pay the necessary registration and licensing fees associated with establishing the offshore company, including registration fees, license fees, and any additional charges.

Takes 1 day

06 License Issuance 

Once the application is approved and fees are paid, the offshore company license will be issued, officially permitting the company to operate as an offshore entity.

Takes 3 to 5 days

07  Opening a Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account in the UAE. 

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

08  Office Address Registration 

Offshore companies must have a registered office address in the UAE, which can typically be arranged through the service provider. 

Takes 2 to 3 days

09Obtaining Residency Visas

Apply for residency visas for shareholders and key employees.

Takes 10 to 15 days

Why Should you Choose Us

Expert Advice
Bespoke Solutions
Broad Experience
Post-Setup Support

RadiantBiz offers expert guidance and an individually tailored solution for developing your business in the UAE. We ensure a smooth process with our broad experience in setting up businesses. We also offer post-setup guidance. We accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey ensuring business success and growth through our expertise in every business department.

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Empowering Your Business
through our Associations & Channel Partners in Dubai.

Ready to Set Up Your Business in Dubai? Contact Us Today to Explore the Best Zones and Get Expert Assistance!

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is it possible to receive UAE residency visa over Dubai Offshore company?
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What is the difference between Freezone and offshore company in UAE?
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What is the difference between offshore and Freezone companies in Dubai?
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