Offshore Company Setup
What is an Offshore Company in Dubai?
- An offshore company is a non-resident business entity registered in a UAE jurisdiction for conducting international business.
- These companies cannot operate inside the UAE but enjoy tax exemptions, privacy, and global banking access.
- Ideal for holding companies, international trade, intellectual property ownership, and asset protection.
Benefits of Offshore Company Formation in Dubai
✅ 100% foreign ownership
✅ 0% corporate and income tax
✅ Full repatriation of profits and capital
✅ No physical office requirement
✅ Low setup and maintenance costs
✅ Access to UAE and international banks
✅ High level of confidentiality and data privacy
✅ Can own shares in UAE mainland and free zone companies
Where Can You Register an Offshore Company in UAE?
JAFZA Offshore (Jebel Ali Free Zone) – Most prestigious, access to Dubai banks
RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) – Most cost-effective and flexible
Ajman Offshore – Budget-friendly for startups
Documents Required for Offshore Company Setup
Passport copy of shareholder(s) and directors
Proof of address (utility bill/bank statement)
CV or professional profile of shareholder(s)
Bank reference letter or 6-month statement
Application form and company structure details
Step-by-Step Offshore Company Registration Process in Dubai
Choose jurisdiction (JAFZA, RAK ICC, Ajman)
Finalize business structure and name
Submit KYC documents and application
Pay government and registration fees
Company is incorporated in 3–7 working days
Obtain certificate of incorporation and MOA
Open international or UAE corporate bank account
Cost of Offshore Company Formation in Dubai (2025)
RAK ICC: Starting from AED 9,000 – 12,000/year
JAFZA Offshore: AED 15,000 – 20,000/year
Ajman Offshore: AED 8,000 – 10,000/year
Add-ons (optional):
UAE bank account setup: AED 3,000+
Nominee services: AED 2,000 – 5,000
Legalization and courier: AED 500+
Key Restrictions of Offshore Companies
Cannot rent office space in UAE
Cannot issue UAE residence visas
Cannot do business within the UAE local market
Not eligible for tax residency certificate
Must work with a registered agent (you can promote your services here)
Offshore vs Free Zone vs Mainland – What’s the Difference?
Feature | Offshore | Free Zone | Mainland |
Market Access | International only | UAE Free Zone + International | Full UAE + International |
Ownership | 100% foreign | 100% foreign | 100% foreign (in most cases) |
Tax Benefits | 0% tax | 0–9% (above AED 375,000) | 0–9% (corporate tax applies) |
Visa Eligibility | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Office Requirement | ❌ Not needed | ✅ Optional | ✅ Mandatory |
Confidentiality | ✅ High | Moderate | Moderate |
Best Use Cases for Dubai Offshore Companies
International trading
Holding shares or intellectual property
Real estate ownership (in certain UAE zones)
Estate and succession planning
Investment companies
Consulting services for non-UAE clients
FAQs on Offshore Company Setup in Dubai
Can I get a visa with a Dubai offshore company?
No, offshore companies are not eligible for UAE residence visas.
Can an offshore company own a mainland company?
Yes, it can own shares in mainland or free zone companies.
Is a UAE bank account available for offshore companies?
Yes, though stricter compliance rules apply. RAK ICC and JAFZA offshore companies are preferred by banks.
Can an offshore company own property in Dubai?
Yes, but only in designated areas such as Jumeirah Lake Towers, Business Bay (via JAFZA).
How long does it take to set up an offshore company?
3–7 working days after submitting all documents.
Why Choose Us for Offshore Company Setup in Dubai?
✅ Registered offshore company formation agent in UAE
✅ Experience with RAK ICC, JAFZA & Ajman offshore jurisdictions
✅ End-to-end support – bank account, nominee director, mail handling
✅ Affordable and transparent pricing