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?

An offshore company setup in the UAE refers to the process of establishing a business entity outside the mainland but within designated offshore jurisdictions like Ras Al Khaimah or Jebel Ali.

Offshore company setup in Dubai offers businesses the opportunity to operate internationally while taking advantage of the UAE's favorable tax environment and business infrastructure.

The offshore company setup in UAE is commonly used for activities such as holding assets, managing intellectual property, or engaging in international trade while avoiding direct involvement in the UAE mainland market. Offshore company formation in Dubai typically involves legal and administrative procedures managed through offshore company formation services.

UAE Offshore Company Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

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

Tax Exemptions

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

Limited Liability

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

Privacy and Confidentiality

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

Currency Stability

The UAE Dirham is pegged to the US dollar.

Access to Global Markets

The offshore license is recognised globally.

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)

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

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

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 Limited Liability Company (LLC)

The Offshore LLC, just like the IBC, offers owners a limited liability for the company's assets. The said structure is for international operations and joint ventures where protection of liability would be quite important.

Free Zone Offshore Company

Some free zones in the UAE allow for offshore company licensing, 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.

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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
UAE Residence Visa (for UAE residents)
Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
Utility Bill or Tenancy Contract
Business Plan
No Objection Certificate (NOC)		✗
Bank Reference Letter
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Articles of Association (AOA)	✗	✗
Power of Attorney (POA)	✗
Shareholder Resolution (for Corporate Shareholders)	✗
Curriculum Vitae (CV)

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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