Why choose UAE for offshore business?
Features of running an offshore business in the UAE
Conducting offshore business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers unique opportunities for international entrepreneurs. With a stable economy, favorable tax regime, and modern legislation, the UAE has become one of the leading jurisdictions for establishing and operating offshore companies.
The process of registering an offshore company in the UAE takes a minimal amount of time and does not require physical presence. There are special free economic zones where the registration process is simplified.
The UAE government actively supports the development of offshore business by creating a stable and attractive legal framework and regularly updating the legislation to ensure maximum security for investors.
Offshore companies in the UAE provide entrepreneurs with access to one of the most advantageous tax regimes in the world, flexibility in management, and asset protection.
Advantages of offshore companies in the UAE, Dubai:
- No taxes — offshore companies in the UAE have minimal taxation, providing significant advantages compared to other jurisdictions;
- Confidentiality — high level of data protection for owners, making offshore in Dubai attractive for those who value anonymity;
- Reputation — companies in Dubai enjoy trust on the global market, enhancing the business status;
- Flexible requirements — the requirements for an offshore company in Dubai are minimal, with no minimum capital requirements, and registration can be completed remotely.
Stages of registering an offshore company in the UAE
01
Choosing a Free Economic Zone
There are several free economic zones in the UAE, each with its own characteristics and requirements. The most popular zones for offshore business include Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC), and others. It is important to choose the zone that best suits the company's goals.
02
Definition of the company structure
At this stage, it is necessary to define the company's type of activity, the number and rights of shareholders, and appoint the director and company secretary. Offshore companies in the UAE can typically be owned by a single owner or multiple individuals.
03
Preparation and submission of documents
To register an offshore company, a minimal set of documents is required, including copies of the founders' and directors' passports, proof of address, and completed application forms. Some zones may require recommendations from a bank or other third parties.
04
Opening a bank account
Opening a corporate bank account in the UAE or another jurisdiction is an important step that will enable the company to carry out international financial transactions. Typically, after the company registration, the offshore bank will provide access to remote account management.
05
Payment of registration fee and obtaining a license
After submitting all the necessary documents, registration fees and other related expenses must be paid. Once this is done, the company will receive an official certificate of registration and a license to operate, if required.
06
Obtaining certificates and registration documents
Upon completion of the registration, the company owner is issued registration documents, such as the company's articles of association and the certificate of registration. These documents confirm the legal existence of the offshore company in the UAE.
07
Setting up business operations
After registration and opening a bank account, the company is ready to conduct business. It can now begin carrying out international transactions, managing assets, and engaging in other business activities in line with its objectives.
Choosing an offshore zone in the UAE: tips and recommendations
Ras Al Khaimah Emirate (RAK ICC)
Corporate address
Dubai, UAE
Personal presence
Not required
RAK ICC — Corporate Registry for Registering International Companies in the UAE.
RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is a corporate registry designed for registering international commercial companies (offshores) in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. This registry meets high international standards, making it popular among entrepreneurs conducting international business.
RAK ICC is one of the few jurisdictions in the UAE offering offshore company registration. This type of company allows global operations while remaining registered in the UAE and opening a local bank account. The RAK ICC offshore company is a convenient solution for business owners who value flexibility and access to international markets.
Company registration in RAK ICC is carried out through official agents who assist at all stages of company formation and maintenance. While the registration process can be done remotely, opening a bank account in the UAE requires the personal presence of the owner or a company representative.
RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is a corporate registry designed for registering international commercial companies (offshores) in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. This registry meets high international standards, making it popular among entrepreneurs conducting international business.
RAK ICC is one of the few jurisdictions in the UAE offering offshore company registration. This type of company allows global operations while remaining registered in the UAE and opening a local bank account. The RAK ICC offshore company is a convenient solution for business owners who value flexibility and access to international markets.
Company registration in RAK ICC is carried out through official agents who assist at all stages of company formation and maintenance. While the registration process can be done remotely, opening a bank account in the UAE requires the personal presence of the owner or a company representative.
Emirate of Jebel Ali (JAFZA)
Corporate address
Dubai, UAE
Personal presence
Required
An offshore company registered in the JAFZA Free Zone (Jebel Ali) is a popular business format for international entrepreneurs interested in operating outside the UAE.
Like any offshore companies, entities established in JAFZA can open a bank account in the UAE. However, their commercial activities must be conducted outside the country of registration.
One significant advantage of an offshore company in JAFZA is the right to own real estate in Dubai. This makes the JAFZA offshore structure an attractive solution for those who wish to register property under a legal entity rather than personally, providing additional protection and optimizing asset management.
Like any offshore companies, entities established in JAFZA can open a bank account in the UAE. However, their commercial activities must be conducted outside the country of registration.
One significant advantage of an offshore company in JAFZA is the right to own real estate in Dubai. This makes the JAFZA offshore structure an attractive solution for those who wish to register property under a legal entity rather than personally, providing additional protection and optimizing asset management.
Ajman Emirate (AFZA)
Corporate address
Ajman, UAE
Personal presence
Not required
The northern emirate attracts entrepreneurs with affordable prices for business registration and operations, offering optimal conditions for international companies.
Advantages of registration:
Shareholders can be both individuals and legal entities, regardless of citizenship or country of registration (except for private funds and trusts);
Low cost for both registration and annual company maintenance;
No requirement for annual audit reports, which reduces administrative burden and saves on accounting support.
Advantages of registration:
Shareholders can be both individuals and legal entities, regardless of citizenship or country of registration (except for private funds and trusts);
Low cost for both registration and annual company maintenance;
No requirement for annual audit reports, which reduces administrative burden and saves on accounting support.
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Frequently asked questions
Everything You Need to Know About Registering a Company in Dubai, UAE
The cost of setting up a company in the UAE varies depending on several factors, including the type of company, the number of shareholders, and the chosen jurisdiction—whether it's a free zone, mainland, or offshore. On average, the registration costs range from $8,000 to $20,000.
Free zones allow 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, simplifying the licensing process.
Offshore companies cannot conduct business within the UAE, but they can carry out international operations and manage assets.
The choice depends on the type of activity. For example, Dubai Internet City is suitable for IT and media businesses, while Jebel Ali Free Zone is ideal for logistics and trade.
The stages of company registration in the UAE include choosing the type of company, applying for a license, renting an office, and obtaining all necessary permits.
The 2022 Companies Law allows full foreign ownership of businesses, except in certain sectors, including strategically important industries such as energy and telecommunications.
Company registration in the UAE, including Dubai, depends on various factors, such as the chosen business activity, jurisdiction, and business structure. On average, the process of setting up a company takes between 3 working days and a few weeks, provided all required documents, licenses, and conditions are met.
Yes, this option is declared, but in practice, most services require personal presence. Our company offers a remote company registration service without your involvement, ensuring compliance with local laws and full legal support.
