Offshore Company Formation in the UAE

The UAE is an ideal destination for your offshore business ventures, offering tax benefits and cutting-edge infrastructure. With easy access to global customers, especially in the Middle East and beyond, you can maximize the opportunities of this dynamic city for your offshore company setup.

Advantages

Key Benefits of Offshore Company Formation:

Characteristics

UAE Offshore Company Formation

Company setup in 7-14 business days

Simple Bank Account Opening Process

Minimal Documentation Required

Limited Paperwork Needed

Overview

Embark on Your Offshore Journey in Dubai and Achieve Success!

Set up your offshore company in top UAE jurisdictions like Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA Dubai), Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), or Ajman Offshore (AFZ), which are renowned for their “tax-free” benefits and specialization in offshore business operations. Keep in mind, however, that business activities must be conducted outside of the UAE. When establishing your offshore company in the UAE, you’ll benefit from expanded business opportunities, streamlined setup processes, excellent logistics, prime locations, and 100% foreign ownership.

The cost of offshore company formation in Dubai typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 40,000, depending on the type of business and its location (JAFZA, RAK, or AFZ), along with additional factors. Office space leasing is also required, and legal services may incur extra costs to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Available Licenses for Your Offshore Business in Dubai

Dubai offers a variety of licenses for offshore companies, providing flexibility for businesses to operate according to their specific needs. With different license types available, offshore firms can establish and grow their operations seamlessly. Explore the range of licenses to benefit from Dubai’s dynamic and adaptable business environment.

General Trading License

This license allows your company to engage in various trading activities. It is required if your business deals with a wide range of goods and services.

Holding License

This license is intended for companies based outside the UAE. It enables them to own assets, subsidiary companies, properties, and intellectual property.

Investment License

This license allows companies to hold and trade various international investment instruments, including foreign currencies, futures, options, listed and unlisted shares, bonds, commodities, and more.

Business Legal Structures for UAE Offshore

When setting up an offshore company in Dubai, you have the option to choose from various legal structures that suit your business needs. This flexibility allows you to select a setup that offers benefits such as asset protection, tax savings, and global business opportunities. No matter which structure you choose, you’ll enjoy several advantages!

The cost of offshore company formation in Dubai typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 40,000, depending on the type of business and its location (JAFZA, RAK, or AFZ), along with additional factors. Office space leasing is also required, and legal services may incur extra costs to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An offshore LLC is designed to provide business owners with a significant benefit: limited liability. This means your personal assets are protected from your company’s debts and legal responsibilities. Additionally, your LLC’s income may qualify for favorable tax treatment.

 

IBCs are established in the UAE to conduct business primarily outside the United Arab Emirates. These companies typically do not engage in significant operations within the UAE. A major advantage of setting up an IBC is the exemption from taxes and duties, which can significantly reduce the financial burden for businesses involved in international trade or investment activities.

Necessary Documents

Below is a list of the required documents for setting up an offshore company in the UAE.

Civil Company

A Civil Company is owned by two or more partners and operates in professional fields such as consultancy, beauty salons, and coaching services.

 

A business structure with a single person or up to 50 partners where liability is only limited to the number of shares owned by the shareholders.

Submit Your Application & Receive Trade License and Company Formation Documents.

Issuance of Immigration Card & E-channel Application.

Issuance of Entry Permit, Status Change, Medical, and Emirates ID.

Issuance of Investor Visa.

Steps for Setting Up an Offshore Company in the UAE.

Choose Your Business Structure

Selecting the appropriate legal structure is crucial for offshore companies. It determines your management requirements and documentation processes. Choose from options such as Offshore Foundation, Offshore Trust, LLC, or IBC based on your business needs.

Prepare and Submit Documents

Gather the required documents and submit them to the relevant authorities in your chosen jurisdiction. Keep in mind that documentation requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction, so be sure to review their specific criteria.

Open an Offshore Bank Account

Having an offshore bank account simplifies the process of incorporation and conducting business transactions for your offshore company. It streamlines financial operations and facilitates smooth business activities.

Why Choose Avyanco

At Avyanco, we understand that starting a business can be complex, which is why we simplify offshore company formation in Dubai for you. As a certified business setup consultancy and auditing firm in Dubai, we offer customized packages and services that have helped entrepreneurs from around the world successfully establish and grow their offshore businesses in AAFZA, RAK, and JAFZA. Our dedicated team ensures a seamless process, handling everything from business registration to license acquisition, so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience.

Still unsure about your decision? Let us guide you!

End-to-End Support

Our services go beyond just registration and permits. We provide ongoing assistance throughout your company's operations in the UAE, including accounting, auditing, and visa processing. We're committed to ensuring that your offshore company setup in Dubai remains smooth and fully compliant.

Extensive Industry Network

With years of experience in the industry, Avyanco has built a robust and extensive network of contacts and partnerships in Dubai and beyond. We leverage these connections to support the growth and development of your offshore business.

Proven Success

With a strong history of successfully establishing offshore companies in Dubai and other UAE cities, we demonstrate our reliability and dedication to ensuring the success of our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Offshore Company Formation

Is a local representative required for my offshore business?
No, a foreign national can be both a shareholder and director of the company. However, appointing a local agent is mandatory for registering an offshore company in the UAE.
The offshore company formation process in Dubai typically takes around 4 to 5 working days. However, if you need it expedited, you can opt for express registration, which can be completed in just 48 hours.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): This structure provides limited liability protection, safeguarding your personal assets from the company’s debts and legal obligations. Additionally, the income generated by the offshore company may benefit from favorable tax treatment.

  • International Business Companies (IBCs): IBCs are designed to offer tax and duty exemptions, significantly reducing the financial burden on businesses involved in international trade or investment activities.

Yes, offshore companies and foreign investors are permitted to purchase property in Dubai, but only in designated areas where foreign ownership is allowed. These areas are specified by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), and the list is periodically updated through new regulations and decrees.
 
You can establish an offshore company in the UAE and take advantage of local banking services with a 0% tax rate. Additionally, you have the option to open bank accounts internationally.

 

 
No, offshore companies cannot lease office space in the UAE. Instead, they require a registered address for mail and secretarial services. Avyanco can assist by providing these services as your offshore company’s registered agent.
 
Are offshore companies subject to corporate tax?

Are offshore companies also liable for corporate tax?

In general, offshore companies are exempt from corporate tax. However, they must meet some regulatory requirements to meet the 0% corporate tax requirements.

These requirements are:

  • Registration in free zones
  • Intra-zone Management and Operations
  • Unified Visa Issuance
  • Transfer Pricing Compliance
  • Derivation of Qualifying Income
  • De-minimization Criteria
Yes, according to UAE law, all companies, including offshore companies, must register for corporate tax in the UAE before the specified deadline.