Offshore
Offshore company formation in the UAE
An offshore company is a cost-effective structure for holding assets and conducting business outside the UAE, with full ownership and no physical office requirement.
What is a UAE offshore company?
An offshore company is registered with an offshore registry in the UAE, such as RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) or JAFZA Offshore. It is fully owned by its shareholders and is managed through a registered agent.
Offshore companies cannot trade within the UAE or hold residence visas. They are typically used to hold assets and investments, own shares in other companies and carry out international business.
Key features
Full ownership
100% ownership by individual or corporate shareholders.
Simple formation
Streamlined registration with minimal paperwork.
Asset holding
A practical vehicle for holding assets, investments and shareholdings.
International business
Conduct business with clients and partners outside the UAE.
Limited liability
Shareholders’ liability is limited to their share capital.
Banking
Corporate bank accounts can be opened, subject to bank due diligence.
Documents generally required
Requirements vary by registry; we confirm the exact list for your case.
- Certified passport copy of each shareholder and director
- Proof of residential address
- Bank or professional reference letter
- CV or business profile of shareholders
- Description of the proposed business activity
- Company constitutional documents (we prepare these)
The offshore formation process
Choose the registry
Compare offshore registries based on your purpose and requirements.
Reserve the name
Select a unique company name that does not infringe existing trademarks.
Prepare documents
We prepare the memorandum and articles, resolutions and agent appointment.
Registration
Documents are submitted through the registered agent and the certificate of incorporation is issued.
Bank account
We support you through the corporate bank account process.
Ongoing compliance
Annual renewals, record keeping and applicable tax and economic substance obligations.
Frequently asked questions
Can an offshore company do business in the UAE?
No. Offshore companies cannot trade within the UAE. If you plan to serve UAE customers, a mainland or free zone company is the right choice.
Does an offshore company give me a residence visa?
No. Offshore companies do not have visa eligibility. Residence visas require a mainland or free zone company, or another visa route.
Is an offshore company exempt from tax?
Tax treatment depends on the company’s activities and where it is managed. Offshore companies may fall within UAE Corporate Tax and other reporting rules, so we recommend tax advice before you decide.
Related services
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