Offshore Company Setup in the UAE

Secure, Flexible, and Tax-Efficient Structures for Global Business Growth.

Offshore Company Formation in the UAE

An offshore company in the UAE is an ideal solution for entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses looking to protect assets, streamline global trading, and manage funds from international invoicing. Offshore structures are commonly used to hold assets, intellectual property, and shares for companies operating either within or outside the UAE.

Approved Offshore Jurisdictions in the UAE

rak

RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)

jafza

JAFZA Offshore (Jebel Ali Free Zone)

Ajman Offshore

Key Benefits of UAE Offshore Company Formation

Low Setup Costs

Affordable registration with minimal ongoing expenses.

Quick Incorporation

Fast and efficient company setup process.

100% Foreign Ownership

Full control with no local sponsor required.

No Paid-Up Capital Requirement

Start your company without the need for upfront share capital.

No Annual Audit Requirement

Simplified Compliance and reporting.

Multiple Bank Accounts

Access to both international and local banking facilities.

Key Features of a UAE Offshore Company

UAE offshore companies offer flexibility, privacy, and easy administration. Here are the core structural and compliance features: 

Shareholders

  • Minimum of one shareholder is required 
  • Corporate shareholders are permitted 
  • International corporate shareholders must provide attested company documents 

Directors

  • At least one director is required 
  • Corporate directors are allowed 
  • Director details are not publicly disclosed, ensuring privacy 

Company Secretary

  • A company secretary is mandatory 
  • The director can also act as the secretary 

Share Capital

  • No minimum share capital requirement 

Annual Reporting

  • Companies must maintain accounting records for 7 years 
  • No obligation to file accounts with RAK or other offshore authorities 
Decoding Jurisdiction

Use Cases

Global Holding Structures

Asset Protection

International Tax Planning

Offshore Company Formation

Designed for international structuring, asset protection, and tax efficiency. Offshore entities are widely used for holding investments and maintaining confidentiality.

Required Documents for Offshore Company Registration

To complete your mainland company registration, here’s what you need:

JurisTax MENA handles the full process, from document preparation to submission. Our team ensures everything is legally compliant and submitted on time. Your Offshore company setup is in expert hands.

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Understanding the Costs of Setting Up a Offshore Business

Trade License

Starting from USD 4,000

Office Space

Varies by size and area

Government Fees

Activity-based

Visa Cost

Based on quota

What our clients say about us

Any questions?
We got you.

Starting a company, getting a visa, or opening a bank account in the UAE can raise questions. That’s why we’ve gathered answers to help you make informed decisions.

Explore our FAQs, from business structures to tax rules and visa options. Need guidance? Our experts are a message away.

1. Can I open a corporate bank account as a new business?

Yes, once licensed. Approval depends on the business risk profile and documentation.

Yes. Shareholders and employees can apply for UAE residence visas. Process includes:

  • Entry permit
  • Medical test
  • Emirates ID registration
  • Visa stamping
  • Passport copy of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
  • UAE visa copy (if applicable)
  • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
  • Passport-sized photo
  • Business plan or activity summary
  • Mainland Company: Licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allows operation anywhere in the UAE and internationally.
  • Free Zone Company: Offers tax incentives and 100% foreign ownership. Business activity is limited to inside the Free Zone and international markets (not Mainland UAE unless a local distributor is appointed).
  • Offshore Company: Not licensed for business inside the UAE. Ideal for international structuring, asset holding, or IP ownership. Cannot lease offices, hire employees, or issue visas.

Corporate Tax: 9% on net profit exceeding AED 375,000. Companies earning below this threshold are exempt. Qualifying Free Zone Persons may benefit from a 0% rate if they meet specific activity and compliance conditions.

VAT: Standard rate is 5% on most goods and services.

  • Mandatory VAT registration is required for businesses with taxable supplies and imports exceeding AED 375,000 annually.
  • Voluntary VAT registration is available if supplies or taxable expenses exceed AED 187,500 annually
  • VAT-registered businesses can reclaim input tax on eligible business purchases and expenses.

Reach Our Expert Team

Get in touch with our expert team for fast, reliable business support and personalized guidance.

(+971) 04 557 3100

hello@juristax.com

Office No. 31, 27th Floor, Al Saqar Business Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

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