Business Setup In Offshore
Grow Globally with a UAE Offshore Company Setup
Setting up an offshore company in the UAE is one of the smartest ways to launch or grow your business internationally. Since offshore company formation began in the UAE in 2003, the country has become a top choice for global companies and investors.
One of the main reasons businesses choose UAE offshore incorporation is the full privacy it offers in financial matters. It also helps in growing and protecting wealth without any disruptions, making it a trusted option for long-term success.
What is an Offshore Company?
An offshore company is a business that is registered in a different country from where its owner lives. Many people choose offshore companies to save on taxes and enjoy easy business rules.
This type of company can be owned by a person or another company. It does not do business in the country where it is registered, which is why it's also called a non-resident company.
In the UAE, offshore companies don’t have to pay taxes and don’t need to submit yearly accounting reports.
However, they are not allowed to rent office space or have a physical location in the UAE.
The main reasons to set up an offshore company are to protect assets, grow wealth, and reduce taxes legally.
Offshore Company in the UAE
Offshore companies in the UAE are officially supported by the government and offer many financial benefits. These include zero taxes, no customs duties, and a smooth setup process. Because of these advantages, the UAE is now a popular choice for businesses to register their offshore headquarters.
Starting an offshore company in the UAE is simple, cost-effective, and offers both basic and advanced business services. It’s a top destination for entrepreneurs who want to expand globally with minimum expenses.
The setup cost is low, and there are fewer ongoing requirements, which makes it attractive for new investors. UAE offshore companies can also legally reduce or avoid several taxes such as capital gains tax, VAT, income tax on business profits, inheritance tax, and property sale tax. This makes them a smart choice for long-term financial planning.
Offshore Company Locations in the UAE
The UAE offers three main offshore company locations, ideal for entrepreneurs and investors. All three options provide full tax exemptions, no requirement for minimum capital, and easy setup processes.
- 1. Dubai Offshore (JAFZA)
Dubai Offshore, registered under the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA), is one of the most popular choices in the Middle East. It is often the first choice for investors looking to form an offshore company in the UAE, thanks to its strong reputation and global connectivity.
- 2. RAK Offshore (Ras Al Khaimah)
RAK Offshore is a great option for businesses looking for privacy, low costs, and fast registration. It’s a business-friendly zone and we can assist you with every step of setting up your RAK offshore company.
- 3. Ajman Offshore
Ajman Offshore offers a quick, affordable, and hassle-free setup. It’s becoming increasingly popular due to its attractive business benefits, making it a great choice for small businesses and startups.
Each of these offshore zones offers flexible business rules, full foreign ownership, and excellent financial advantages.
What Can a UAE Offshore Company Do?
Setting up an offshore company in the UAE is a smart choice for entrepreneurs who want a cost-effective and tax-free business setup. It is especially useful for people doing business outside the UAE.
Here are some common activities allowed for UAE offshore companies:
- Manage shares or investments in other companies.
- Own and operate ships or cargo vessels.
- Buy and hold property (in approved zones).
- Import/export goods and do global business.
- Offer advice and services to international clients.
- Register and protect patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
The UAE offers a wide range of business activities that offshore companies can legally perform in its approved offshore zones.
- Commission Agents or intermediary brokers (IBs) Consulting services.
- Buying, holding or selling stakes of companies.
- International and professional services.
- Investments and joint investments.
- Shipping and ship management.
- General trading activities.
- Owning property.
- Advisory services.
These business activities can be done outside the country where the offshore company is registered.
Documents Needed to Register an Offshore Company in the UAE
To start the registration process for a UAE offshore company, the applicant—whether an individual or a business—must submit an application along with a few required documents to the official offshore authority.
Here are the key documents you need:
- Bank Reference Letter
- Passport and ID Copies
- Proof of Address
- Power of Attorney (if needed)
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up an Offshore Company in the UAE
Starting an offshore company in the UAE is simple when you follow the right steps. Once you collect the necessary documents, here’s how to move forward:
- Define Your Business Activity
Decide what kind of work your company will do. This activity must be clearly mentioned in the application form.
- Choose a Company Name
Pick a business name that matches your activity and follows UAE’s rules for trade names. Avoid names that are offensive or already taken.
- Appoint Key People
Select the shareholders, directors, and company secretary. These people will be responsible for running and managing the company.
- Set the Share Capital
Decide how much share capital your company will have. There is no minimum amount required, so you can choose based on your business needs.
- Fill Out and Submit the Application
Prepare your application with accurate information, including:
- Shareholder names and the number of shares they will hold
- Names and contact details of directors and representatives
- Proposed Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Any extra details required by the offshore registrar
Submit the complete application with all the supporting documents.
- Open a Business Bank Account
After the company is officially registered, you can open a corporate bank account to handle your company’s finances.
- What We Do
Our experienced team supports you with everything from legal paperwork to getting your offshore business up and running. We focus on:
- Helping you legally reduce corporate taxes
- Protecting your business assets
- Minimizing your financial risks
- Managing the full setup process—start to finish
- How We Support You
As your official registered agent in the UAE, we help with:
- Drafting your Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Preparing and submitting all registration forms
- Arranging a registered office address and PO Box in Dubai
- Assisting with multi-currency corporate bank account setup
- Filing documents with the Registrar of Companies (ROC)
- Obtaining your certificate of incorporation
- Managing your license renewal each year