OFFSHORE COMPANY FORMATION

Offshore Company Formation in the UAE

What Is an Offshore Company in UAE?

An offshore company in the UAE is a legal business entity that allows international operations without physical presence in the UAE. Designed for global trade, investment, and asset protection, offshore company formation UAE offers confidentiality, tax advantages, and flexibility, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and corporates alike.

Who Should Set Up an Offshore Business in Dubai UAE?

Offshore company formation Dubai or in UAE is ideal for international investors, digital entrepreneurs, consultants, and businesses looking for secure asset protection and streamlined global trade. It's especially beneficial for those not intending to conduct business within the UAE borders.

Why Start an Offshore Company in UAE? - Key Benefits 

1. 100% Foreign Ownership & Tax Efficiency

One of the most attractive benefits of offshore company in UAE is complete foreign ownership. Investors are also exempt from corporate and personal income taxes, enhancing profitability and ensuring global competitiveness.

2. Asset Protection & International Business Flexibility

With offshore business setup UAE, your assets are shielded from political or economic instability. You can hold intellectual property, invest in global markets, and own shares in other companies with minimal regulatory burdens.

3. Access to Global Banking & Investment Opportunities

Dubai offshore company registration enables businesses to open multi-currency bank accounts in UAE, making international transactions seamless. It also paves the way for access to investment platforms and financial services across the globe.

Offshore Company Formation in Dubai, UAE

Offshore Company Formation in UAE: Expert Guidance

With 20 years of experience, CLA Emirates [formerly Emirates Chartered Accountants Group] is your trusted partner and advisor in Offshore Company Formation in Dubai, UAE—delivering expertise, confidentiality, and seamless setup solutions.

 

Call for Consultation
Mr. Ragesh Mattummal | Partner
M: +971 50 357 8031
E: Ragesh.Mattummal@claemirates.com
Chat with us on WhatsApp

 

 

Top Offshore Jurisdictions in UAE: RAK ICC vs Jebel Ali

RAK ICC Offshore Company formation Process

RAK offshore company registration offers fast-track incorporation, affordable pricing, and no requirement for office space. It's ideal for holding companies, international trading, and IP management.

JAFZA Offshore: Features, Advantages & Costs

Jebel Ali offshore company formation is managed under JAFZA and offers prestige, proximity to Dubai, and access to top-tier infrastructure. It’s preferred by firms involved in global logistics and trade.

Choosing the Right Jurisdiction for Your Needs

While both jurisdictions are beneficial, your choice depends on your business objectives. RAK ICC is best for cost-efficiency, while JAFZA is suited for larger scale or logistics-focused operations.

Step-by-Step Offshore Company formation Dubai, UAE Process
Step 1: Document Preparation & Notarization

The first step involves gathering documents such as passport copies, proof of residence, and shareholder/director information. These must be notarized to meet UAE offshore company requirements.

Step 2: Name Approval and License Issuance

Submit your company name for approval. Once they approve it, you'll receive the license and certificate.

Step 3: Opening an Offshore Bank Account

Post incorporation, the next step is to open a corporate bank account in the UAE. Most offshore companies can operate accounts to handle international transactions securely.

Offshore Company Formation Cost in UAE

Breakdown of Government Fees

Offshore company cost UAE typically includes government fees, agent service charges, and registration costs. On average, these range between AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 depending on jurisdiction.

Hidden Costs to Avoid

Avoid surprise charges such as document attestation, translation, or banking facilitation fees. Transparent guidance helps reduce unexpected offshore company cost UAE.

Who Can Own an Offshore Company in UAE?

Ownership Rules for Expats & Foreign Nationals

There are no nationality restrictions—any foreign national can fully own an offshore company, making offshore business setup UAE highly inclusive.

Offshore Structures for Trusts & Holdings

Offshore companies can be structured to support family trusts, holding entities, and SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles) for maximum flexibility and confidentiality.

Why Choose CLA Emirates as Your Offshore Company Formation Consultant?

With over 20 years of hands-on experience in offshore company formation in Dubai UAE, CLA Emirates is your trusted partner for seamless, compliant, and confidential business setup. As a registered agent authorized under both RAK ICC and JAFZA jurisdictions, we offer deep expertise in structuring offshore entities that align with your global business goals.

Our team simplifies every step — from document preparation and licensing to bank account setup and post-incorporation support. Whether you're setting up a holding company, protecting assets, or launching international operations, CLA Emirates ensures legal clarity, financial transparency, and long-term growth potential.

 

Supporting Multinational Corporations & Foreign Investors

CLA Emirates is a member of CLA Global, a leading international network of independent advisory and accounting firms, providing clients with the advantage of local expertise supported by global reach. As a proud member, CLA Emirates combines local expertise with global insights to deliver seamless company formation services across UAE tailored to your business needs.

With over 20 years of experience, CLA Emirates specializes in assisting global enterprises, foreign subsidiaries, and international investors in establishing a strong corporate presence in UAE offshore jurisdictions.

We help you set up offshore companies in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and other leading offshore jurisdictions across the UAE—customized to your business model, goals, and budget. Whether you're seeking privacy, tax efficiency, or international expansion, our expert team offers the guidance and support you need.

Our Services Include:

We ensure smooth business setup processes and full transparency, whether you're headquartered in London, Mumbai, New York, or Singapore.

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OFFSHORE COMPANY FORMATION -FAQ

People usually ask

In Dubai, there is only one offshore – Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA). You can form an offshore company through a registered agent with JAFZA Offshore.

An offshore company is a legal business entity registered in a jurisdiction outside the owner's country of residence, typically offering benefits like tax efficiency, asset protection, and confidentiality. In the UAE, offshore company formation in Dubai allows businesses and individuals to establish a company with no physical office requirement, minimal reporting obligations, and 100% foreign ownership.
An offshore company in Dubai cannot conduct business within the UAE mainland but is ideal for holding assets, international trading, investment activities, and property ownership in designated areas.

You can set up an offshore company in Dubai with the support of a registered agent. The cost of offshore company formation will very as per different jurisdictions. Popular offshore jurisdictions in the UAE are – JAFZA Offshore, RAK ICC Offshore & Ajman Offshore.

Yes, offshore companies in Dubai can buy properties in the UAE. However, it will depend on the approval from the Land Department in different Emirates.

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