Offshore Company Formation in Dubai

The UAE offers a strategic way for offshore companies to leverage tax advantages, asset protection, and privacy. Entrepreneurs can operate with full foreign ownership and access global markets, making it an attractive option for international investors seeking a cost-effective base.
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Advantages of a Dubai Offshore Company Setup

Full Foreign Ownership

Investors can fully own their offshore company without the need for a local partner or sponsor.

Tax Exemptions

Exempt from corporate tax, income tax, and capital gains tax, withholding tax on dividends or interest payments.

Limited Liability

Shareholders are protected from personal liability for debts and obligations.

Privacy and Confidentiality

The identities of shareholders and directors can remain private, protecting sensitive business information from public scrutiny.

Strong Legal Framework

A well-established legal system that is tailored for offshore businesses.

Currency Stability

The UAE Dirham is pegged to the US dollar.

Access to Global Markets

The Dubai offshore license is recognized globally.

International Funding Opportunities

Easy accessibility to global funding sources.

What is the Dubai Offshore Jurisdiction?

A Dubai offshore company setup refers to forming a business in designated offshore jurisdictions in UAE, such as Ras Al Khaimah or Jebel Ali. Offshore company formation in Dubai is ideal for businesses seeking tax efficiency, international trade flexibility, and corporate anonymity.

With the right offshore company formation packages, companies can hold assets, manage intellectual property, and operate globally while benefiting from reduced Dubai offshore license costs. Offshore company setup in Dubai ensures businesses avoid direct involvement in the local mainland economy while maintaining global financial credibility.

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Types of Dubai Offshore Company Structures

Dubai offshore companies offer tax benefits and privacy for international business but can’t operate in the UAE or bid on tenders.
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Free Zone Offshore Company

Some free zones in the UAE allow for offshore company licensing, with specific benefits available such as banking facilities and property ownership. This is for companies wanting the best of both worlds: the advantages of an offshore jurisdiction coupled with the benefits of being in a free zone.

Offshore Holding Company

The main purpose of an offshore holding company is to hold shares of other companies, both in the UAE and worldwide. It offers the same tax benefits and privacy, but it is more focused on asset management and investment holdings.

International Business Company (IBC)

The most common offshore company structure is utilized for international trading, holding of assets, and management of intellectual property. IBCs are ideal for businesses operating outside the UAE and not intending to engage in mainland business activities.

Offshore Trust Company

This structure is used for asset protection and estate planning. It allows business owners to transfer their assets into a trust, protecting them from creditors and providing privacy. Offshore trusts are commonly used in wealth management and succession planning.

Offshore Limited Liability Company (LLC)

The offshore LLC, just like the IBC, offers owners limited liability for the company's assets. The said structure is for international operations and joint ventures where protection of liability would be quite important.

Dubai Offshore Jurisdictions

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)

Offers offshore company formation across various industries including international trade, investments, and asset holding companies.

Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)

‍Offers offshore company formation across various industries including real estate investments and holding companies

Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)

Offers offshore company setup across various industries including for international trading and asset holding.

Dubai Offshore Company Setup Process

Timeline: 4 to 8 weeks

Step 01 - Takes 1 to 2 days

Initial Consultation
Engage a business setup consultant or offshore service provider to discuss your business goals, structure, and requirements.

Step 02 - Takes 1 day

Application Submission

The relevant authority will review the application and reserve the proposed company name, ensuring it complies with naming regulations.

Step 03 - Takes 1 day

Name Reservation   

The relevant authorities review the application and reserve the company name, ensuring it complies with its naming conventions and guidelines.

Step 04 - Takes 2 to 3 days

Document Preparation

Gather necessary documentation and fill out any forms required. 

Step 05 - Takes 1 Days

Payment of Fees  

Pay the necessary fees associated with establishing the offshore company in Dubai, including license fees and any additional charges.

Step 06 - Takes 3 to 5 weeks

License Issuance  

Once the application is approved and fees are paid, the Dubai offshore license will be issued, officially permitting the company to operate as an offshore entity.  

Step 07 - Takes 1 to 2 weeks

Opening a Bank Account 

Open a corporate bank account in the UAE.

Step 08 - Takes 2 to 3 weeks

Office Address Issuance  

For an offshore company formation in Dubai, an official office address in the UAE, can typically be arranged through the service provider.  

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Comparison of Offshore Jurisdictions

Dubai vs UK

Document Commercial License Professional License Industrial License Tourism License
Passport copies of all shareholders ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
UAE Visa or Emirates ID (if applicable) ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Passport-sized photographs ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Business activity details ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Trade name reservation certificate ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Initial approval from DED or Free Zone ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
Office space tenancy contract (Ejari) ✅ ✅ (or flexi desk) ✅ (for industrial premises) ✅ (must match tourism scope)
Memorandum of Association (MOA) ✅ (for LLCs) ✅ (for partnerships) ✅ (mandatory) ✅ (mandatory if LLC)
Local service agent agreement ❌ ✅ (for sole proprietors) ❌ ❌
Feasibility study / Business plan ❌ (optional) ✅ (for certain activities) ✅ (mandatory) ✅ (mandatory for tourism)
External approvals (if applicable) ✅ (some trading sectors) ✅ (regulated professions) ✅ (from Dubai Municipality) ✅ (from DTCM – Tourism Dept.)
NOC from current sponsor (if applicable) ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅

Why Choose Us?

RadiantBiz offers expert guidance and an individually tailored solution for developing your Dubai offshore company. 

We ensure a smooth process with our broad experience in setting up offshore companies in Dubai. 

We also offer post-setup guidance. We accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey ensuring business success and growth through our expertise in every business department.

  • Expert Advice
  • Bespoke Solutions
  • Broad Experience
  • Post-Setup Support
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