UAE Offshore Jurisdictions
An offshore company is built for holding, international trade and asset protection. It is not a route into the UAE market and cannot sponsor residence visas.The UAE has three offshore registries. Which one fits depends on whether you need Dubai property ownership, bank acceptance, or the lowest possible cost.
Confidentiality
Shareholder and director details are not publicly disclosed in any of the three UAE offshore registries.
From AED 8,000
Ajman Offshore and RAK ICC start around AED 8,000. JAFZA runs AED 18,000 to AED 25,000 for its added capability.
Remote Incorporation
All three registries incorporate remotely through an approved registered agent, in 2 to 14 working days.
Dubai Property (JAFZA Only)
JAFZA is the only UAE offshore jurisdiction permitted to own freehold property in designated Dubai areas.
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What an Offshore Company Can and Cannot Do
Offshore companies are the most misunderstood structure in the UAE. They are not a cheaper version of a free zone company. They receive a certificate of incorporation, not a trade licence.
They can hold shares in UAE mainland and free zone entities, trade internationally, own intellectual property and operate multi-currency bank accounts. They cannot trade with UAE customers, rent UAE office space, employ staff in the UAE, or sponsor residence visas.
Three registries
JAFZA, RAK ICC and Ajman Offshore differ on property rights, audit and cost.
- 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor or partner required
- Zero corporate tax on qualifying offshore income and zero personal income tax
- Full repatriation of capital and profits with no currency restrictions
- No minimum share capital requirement in most structures
- No physical office required, with the registered agent providing the address
- Can hold shares in UAE free zone and mainland companies
- Cannot trade inside the UAE mainland or sell to UAE based customers
- Cannot sponsor UAE residence visas for shareholders, directors or employees
- An approved registered agent must be appointed in every jurisdiction
Offshore Registries We Cover
Each registry has its own governing regulations, compliance obligations and cost profile. These are the three we register companies in.
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Jebel Ali Offshore Business Setup
Jebel Ali Offshore Business Setup
The only UAE offshore structure permitted to own freehold property in Dubai. Backed by DP World, with strong international bank recognition. AED 18,000 to 25,000.
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RAK Offshore Company Formation
RAK Offshore Company Formation
RAK ICC, a modern common law registry with access to DIFC and ADGM courts. Incorporates in 2 to 4 working days with no annual audit. AED 8,000 to 15,000.
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Ajman Offshore Business Setup
Ajman Offshore Business Setup
The most budget friendly and fastest option, registering in 2 to 5 working days with minimal reporting obligations. AED 8,000 to 12,000.
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Offshore Company Formation in Dubai
Offshore Company Formation in Dubai
A full side by side comparison of all three registries covering property rights, audit, timelines, share capital and cost.
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Corporate Bank Account Assistance
Corporate Bank Account Assistance
Offshore entities are bankable but attract more scrutiny. We prepare the KYC and compliance file to improve your odds.
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Corporate Tax Registration
Corporate Tax Registration
RAK ICC companies must register for UAE corporate tax. Qualifying entities may be eligible for a 0% rate.
Structures That Allow Visas and Local Trade
If you need UAE residency or want to sell to UAE customers, an offshore company alone will not work. These will.
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UAE Free Zone Company Setup
UAE Free Zone Company Setup
Free zone companies allow residence visas and a physical presence, with 100% ownership and lower costs than mainland.
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Dubai LLC Business Setup
Dubai LLC Business Setup
A mainland LLC gives full UAE market access, government tender eligibility and unlimited visas based on office size.
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Business Setup Across the UAE
Business Setup Across the UAE
Every mainland and emirate setup route we handle, from Dubai through to the northern emirates.
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Ajman Free Zone Business Setup
Ajman Free Zone Business Setup
A common structure is an offshore holding company owning a free zone operating company. AFZA is a low cost option for the operating entity.
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Accounting & Bookkeeping
Accounting & Bookkeeping
Offshore registries do not mandate an audit, but accounting records must be maintained and produced on request.
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Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah
Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah
RAKEZ is the onshore free zone alternative in the same emirate as RAK ICC, allowing visas and a physical presence.
Which Offshore Jurisdiction Fits Your Structure?
Tell us your objectives, banking needs and whether you plan to hold Dubai property, and we will identify the right registry before you apply. Book a free consultation today.
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