Offshore Company Formation in Dubai

Dubai has become a prime destination for offshore company formation, offering global investors tax efficiency, strict privacy laws, and seamless international connectivity. Since launching its offshore company framework in 2003, Dubai has attracted businesses looking to expand internationally, protect assets, and maximize tax benefits.

What is Dubai Offshore Company?

A Dubai Offshore Company allows 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and enhanced privacy for global operations, asset holding, and tax planning without conducting business within the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates offers multiple jurisdictions for offshore company formation, each with unique benefits and regulations. Here are the primary options available for establishing an offshore company in the UAE:

Tax-Efficient Business Setup
100% Foreign Ownership Allowed
Confidential Asset Protection
Fast Incorporation Process
Global Business Flexibility

Ajman Offshore Company

JAFZA Offshore Company

RAK Offshore Company

Requirements for Mainland Business Setup in Dubai

JAFZA Offshore

Established in 2003, JAFZA offers comprehensive corporate facilities and infrastructure. It supports a wide range of business operations and is the only UAE offshore location permitting property ownership in Dubai. JAFZA is popular for its robust regulatory framework and strategic benefits.

Ajman Offshore

AFZ is recognized for its affordability and fast setup process. Ajman offshore offers privacy, tax efficiency, and is ideal for smaller businesses in Dubai and startups. AFZ provides a straightforward incorporation process, making it a popular choice for new businesses.

RAK Offshore

Ras Al Khaimah offshore jurisdiction stands out for its cost-effective and efficient incorporation process, free from corporate taxes. Known for ensuring high confidentiality, RAK ICC enables companies to hold shares in UAE and international firms and even own real estate in the UAE under specific conditions.

 

Step by Step Process for Offshore Company Registration In Dubai

Determine Suitability

Connect with a company formation specialist like us to discuss your goals, explore the benefits, and determine if offshore company formation aligns with your business needs.

 

Choose a Jurisdiction

Choose a Free Zone based on your business requirements. JAFZA Offshore Company a popular choice for offshore companies due to its reputation and the facilities it offers.

 

Name Approval

Propose a company name and get it approved by the relevant authority. The name should not violate public morals or the public order and must be followed by “Limited” to indicate limited liability company.

 

Prepare the Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documents, including:

Detailed application form

  • Business plan
  • Passport copies of the shareholders and directors
  • Original bank reference letters for each shareholder
  • Proof of address for each shareholder (recent utility bill)
  • Curriculum Vitae of each shareholder and director

Legal Documentation

Prepare and sign the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the company, which outline the company’s structure and the rules governing the conduct of the company. These documents must be tailored to meet selected Free Zone legal requirements.

 

Application Submission

Submit the completed application along with all required documents to your chosen Free Zone administration. Pay the necessary government fees and charges for registration and incorporation.

 

Compliance and Due Diligence

The Free Zone authority will conduct due diligence checks on the company documents and the background of the shareholders and directors.

 
 

Company Registration

Once due diligence is completed, the relevant authority will issue a certificate of Offshore Company Incorporation in Dubai and your company will be officially registered.

 

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Open your bank account in Dubai. Most banks will require the presence of company directors and beneficial owners to open a bank account. The bank will perform its own due diligence and KYC procedures.

 

Annual Obligations

Familiarize yourself with the annual compliance requirements, such as renewing the company’s registration and other operational licenses if necessary. Note that offshore companies in JAFZA are not required to submit annual audit reports but must maintain financial records.

 

Benefits Of Offshore Company Setup in Dubai

Tax-Free Profits

Secure Banking Options

100% Foreign Ownership

Real Estate Ownership

Privacy & Confidentiality

Modern Infrastructure

Strategic Global Location

Simplified Compliance

Offshore Company Formation Packages

At RIZ & MONA CONSULTANCY, we provide affordable packages for offshore company formation in Dubai, Jebel Ali, Ajman, and RAKEZ, along with assistance in opening offshore bank accounts. Prices start from AED 11,000 for Ajman and RAK Free Zone, while JAFZA offshore companies are approximately AED 20,000.

Ajman offshore (AFZA)

Price Starting from AED 11,000

RAKEZ Offshore

Price Starting from AED 11,999

JAFZA Freezone

Price Starting from AED 20,000

Offshore Company Formation Consultants in Dubai

How MKB Leaders HUB Consultancy Can Help?

MKB Leaders HUB Consultancy is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.

We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Offshore Company Formation, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!

ASK WHAT YOU WANT TO KNOW

FAQS

What is the cost of establishing an offshore company in the UAE?
The cost of forming an offshore company in the UAE generally starts from around AED 11,000 to AED 12,500, depending on the jurisdiction and specific business needs. This amount covers essential fees and setup requirements. However, for high-profile jurisdictions like JAFZA, the cost may be closer to AED 20,000 or higher due to additional benefits and facilities provided in that free zone



Is there a mandatory minimum capital investment for offshore companies in the Emirates?
There is no mandatory minimum capital requirement for offshore companies in the UAE. The regulations allow companies to set their own capital levels according to their business needs, offering flexibility to investors and business owners​.
What types of business structures are eligible for offshore company formation?
Eligible structures for offshore companies include:

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
Limited Companies
Limited Partnerships
What are the potential drawbacks of forming an offshore company in Dubai?
Potential drawbacks include:

Restrictions on local operations.
High setup and licensing costs.
Reduced privacy due to increased transparency.
Limited banking services due to strict regulations.
No automatic residency rights for owners or employees.

Does an offshore company differ from a Free Zone company?

FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes, offshore companies are registered for operations outside the UAE and enjoy specific tax and privacy benefits without conducting local business. Free Zone companies are licensed to operate within UAE FZs and can engage in local commerce.
Can offshore companies acquire property in Dubai?
Yes, offshore companies can own property in Dubai, but specific rules apply based on the registration jurisdiction.
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