Offshore
The UAE is a prime location for setting up offshore companies, primarily due to its stable jurisdiction, tax policies, global reputation, and compliance with all international anti-money laundering standards. An offshore company is typically set up in a jurisdiction outside the investor’s home country.
Offshore Company Formation
The UAE is a prime location for setting up offshore companies, primarily due to its stable jurisdiction, tax policies, global reputation, and compliance with all international anti-money laundering standards. An offshore company is typically set up in a jurisdiction outside the investor’s home country.
The seven emirates that offer an offshore LLC formation are: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain.
Who it’s ideal for?
Offshore company setup is ideal for companies that aim for full confidentiality, flexible banking systems, international expansion without a physical presence, and asset protection.
Benefits of Mainland UAE
- 100% foreign ownership
- No corporate or income tax
- Strong asset protection and confidentiality
- Access to international banking and investments
- Low setup and operational costs compared to Free Zones and the Mainland
- No trade license. Only Certificate of Incorporation
- Cannot directly conduct business within the UAE market
- No eligibility for UAE residence visas
- No physical presence permitted in the UAE
Main Jurisdictions
JAFZA Offshore
The Jebel Ali Free Zone proudly hosts over 6,400 companies, offering a prominent jurisdiction for offshore setup in Dubai. These companies do not require a trade license. They are instead issued a Certificate of Incorporation that allows them to own and manage properties in designated areas of Dubai, manage investments globally, and hold shares in FZEs and LLCs.
JAFZA offshore company setup has a higher incorporation cost than other offshore zones. Additionally, it requires stakeholders to be present for incorporation and demands annual audit reports.
RAK ICC
Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre is one of the fastest-growing international corporate registries, attracting businesses worldwide for asset protection and tax optimization.
It allows for a quicker incorporation process, does not require filing for annual accounts, and poses no limitations on currency exchange, allowing free movement of capital. While there is no minimum requirement for capital, you need at least one shareholder and one director for the incorporation.
Ajman Offshore
Located in Ajman, a company registered offshore in Ajman enjoys strategic connectivity via land, air, and sea. Its close proximity to Dubai and Abu Dhabi proves beneficial for investors. The jurisdiction is known for its affordability, fast setup process, and ease of administration.
Companies aiming for an offshore incorporation in Ajman must appoint at least one and not more than five directors and one secretary. The shareholders of the companies are free to invest in other UAE companies.
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