Offshore Company Formation in Dubai & UAE

Q: Can I get a UAE residency visa with my offshore company?

No, offshore companies typically do not provide UAE residency visa sponsorship.

Start Your Dubai Offshore Company with Full Ownership

An offshore company is a UAE-registered entity designed to do business outside the UAE, making it a smart choice for holding assets, owning IP, invoicing international clients, and protecting wealth with simple upkeep and low overheads. It gives founders 100% foreign ownership, privacy, easy profit repatriation, and fast setup—typically without renting an office or moving staff. It is not for selling in the UAE or sponsoring local visas, which keeps costs down and compliance light. In the UAE, the main offshore jurisdictions are RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah), JAFZA Offshore (Jebel Ali), and Ajman Offshore—each trusted, recognized, and suitable for global trade, investment holding, or SPV use.

businessdubai.ae helps founders choose the right jurisdiction, then handles the entire process end‑to‑end: name reservation, KYC and documents, incorporation through a registered agent, and a “bank‑ready” dossier to improve account opening success. The team sets up your UBO register, checks Economic Substance (ESR) exposure, and manages annual renewals so there are no surprises. If growth plans change, they provide clear pathways to upgrade from offshore to a free zone or mainland company for local trading and visas. In short, founders get a quick, clean setup today—with the flexibility to scale in the UAE tomorrow.

Business Setup

October 4, 2025

From Idea to Trade License: The Human Guide to Starting a Business in Dubai (2025)

Offshore UAE company advantages that matter. Built for global growth and Lower costs

Protect assets globally with ring‑fenced holding structures that separate operating risk from ownership.

Keep costs predictable with no office lease, light annual filings, and streamlined renewals.

Maintain founder control with 100% foreign ownership, flexible shares, and clean cap‑table management.

Low renewal cost in UAE. You can renew it as low as 6,400 AED every year and it will increase as per your offshore requirement.

Open multi‑currency banking with a bank‑ready KYC dossier that shortens compliance back‑and‑forth.

Stay penalty‑free with managed ESR checks, UBO updates, and a proactive compliance calendar.

Optimize cash movement with efficient dividend distributions and cleaner intercompany charging, per home‑country rules.

Future‑proof operations with optional VAT and e‑invoicing readiness if adding an on‑shore presence later.

Scale internationally faster with digital incorporation, notarised documents, and remote sign‑off workflows.

Pivot when needed with redomiciliation options and clear upgrade paths to free zone or mainland.

Build marketplace credibility with verifiable corporate documents accepted by banks, PSPs, and enterprise buyers.

Hold and license IP centrally for clear royalty flows, easier valuations, and simpler audits.

Hello 👋 I’m Aysh, your offshore business consultant in uae.

Let me know if you have any questions and doubts for your business setup.

UAE Three Offshore Jurisdiction

Types of offshore companies in the UAE

The UAE offers three true offshore jurisdictions designed for activity outside the country—All three give you a clean, low‑maintenance company for holding assets, owning IP, and billing clients abroad without leasing an office or hiring a local team. These entities don’t trade inside the UAE and sponsor visas.

RAK ICC : A modern offshore registry with flexible structures and fast turnarounds.
JAFZA Offshore (Dubai) : The offshore arm linked to the Jebel Ali free zone ecosystem in Dubai.
Ajman Offshore : Best for Founders who want clean governance and lower annual costs.

We're here to help you choosing the right jurisdiction as per your requirement.

The Difference

Freezone vs Offshore Companies in UAE

Here’s a simple breakdown showing the comparison between Freezone and Offshore companies side by side. This will give you a better idea of what each option offers, their key benefits, and their limitations — so you can decide which one fits your business needs best.

Freezone

What it does

Trade inside the UAE, hire staff, and sponsor visas.

Licence

Commercial/professional/industrial licence tied to activities.

Banking

Easier—local activity plus office lease helps with due‑diligence.

Office

Required (flexi‑desk or physical office, depending on activity).

Taxes & compliance

Corporate tax rules may apply; VAT/e‑invoicing if registered; routine filings.

Best for

Selling in the UAE, operating teams, warehousing, or client‑facing services.

Cost (First year)

12,400 AED

Renewal Cost

12,400 AED/year

Offshore

What it does

Hold assets, own IP, invoice international clients—outside the UAE.

Licence

No UAE trading licence; certificate of incorporation only.

Banking

Easier but needs a bank‑ready KYC and real overseas activity.

Office

Office is not required.

Taxes & compliance

Light annual renewals; UBO/ESR checks based on use; no local VAT unless you add an on‑shore presence.

Best for

Holding company, SPV, royalties, cross‑border invoicing without a local operation.

(First year) Cost

8,400 AED

Renewal Cost

6800 AED/year

Still unsure? Schedule a call with us

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Here’s how offshore registration process work

How it works

Getting started is quick and simple. Three steps and you’ve got a clean UAE offshore company without the paperwork headache.

Step 1

We start your application

After a quick call, we pick the right offshore registry, reserve your company name, and send a two‑minute checklist.

Selecting the best zone

For your business

Step 2

KYC and documents

We draft the documents, compile KYC plus UBO/ESR, and file through our registered‑agent network. You just review and e‑sign.

We'll prepare everything for you

You just need to e-sign

Step 3

Incorporate and go bank‑ready

You receive the full pack—COI, MOA/AOA, resolutions. We assemble a bank‑ready dossier and set your renewal calendar.

We get your incorporated

With bank account in uae

Offshore Business Cost in 3 Different Zones

See how RAK ICC, JAFZA Offshore, and Ajman Offshore compare on costs and value. Everything upfront with no hidden fees, so you can pick confidently.

Transparent Registration Cost

RAK ICC

12,500 AED

RAK ICC is the UAE’s modern offshore registry in Ras Al Khaimah—great for clean holding, IP ownership, and cross‑border invoicing without local overheads.

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What’s included?

Registered Agent Filing
Full Incorporation Pack
Bank‑ready KYC dossier
Year one compliance checklist
Future Proof for continuation
Renewal cost @8,000 AED

Registration time: 3-5 days if documents get cleared.

Ajman Offshore

8,400 AED

Ajman Offshore keeps things simple and affordable—ideal for straightforward holding companies and SPVs that need a quick, tidy setup. Renewals are predictable, turnarounds are brisk, and most steps can be handled remotely.

Get in touch

What’s included?

Registered Agent Filing
Full Incorporation Pack
Simple Structure
Bank‑ready KYC dossier
Low Cost Renewal @6,800 AED
Clear upgrade paths to Freezone or Mainland

Registration time: 5-9 Days if documents get cleared.

Jafza Dubai

18,000 AED

JAFZA Offshore sits inside the Jebel Ali ecosystem, so the “Dubai” stamp carries weight with banks and enterprise buyers. Pick it when credibility with large counterparties matters most

Get in touch

What’s included?

Registered Agent
Full Incorporation Pack
incorporation in dubai
Optional Virtual Office Addon
Recognised by big banks
Renewal cost @8,000 AED

Registration time: 5-12 Days if documents get cleared.

Downloadable “bank-ready” KYC guide—real docs, instructions, and what banks look at (no more guessing).

Guide

Check what documents required for offshore business registration in UAE.

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See offshore Company Checklist.

Helping you run, grow, and stay compliant

Your partners in business, not just incorporation

We don’t just help you start your business - we stick with you as it grows. From renewals and compliance to strategy and everyday challenges, you’ll always have someone to call who actually understands how things work.

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Setup

Fast, clean incorporation

We set up your offshore entity, get the documents in order, and handle filings while you focus on your company and vision.

Post Setup

Post-setup support

Got a question about your first payment, a bank issue, or a confusing email from some government department? You can reach us on WhatsApp, by phone, or through email - whatever works best for you. We’ll guide you through renewals, help with UBO or ESR reporting, and make sure you’re in the loop about rule changes—before they turn into problems.

Research

Market research + practical growth

Ready to get your business moving? We’ll help you understand your market, share useful insights, review your contracts, and point out any risks you should know about.

Growth

Advanced advisory

If you’re growing, we’ll help with share transfers, board updates, or moving your setup to a free zone or onshore, all with a clear plan that makes sense. Need accountants, tax help, legal support, or a notary? You’ll deal with real people who actually listen and understand your query, not a call centre.

Beyond

Beyond: Ongoing partnership

You’ll get reminders before anything expires, small updates to keep you penalty-free, and a yearly check-in to make sure everything’s running smoothly. And if you ever feel stuck or have a new idea you want to talk through, we’re always around for a straight, honest chat—sometimes that’s all you need.

Learn more

The Other Business Setup Options

The Right Setup for your Business in Dubai, UAE.

Explore Free Zone, Mainland, and Holding Company routes built for Dubai and the UAE, with clear steps and a steady hand from start to license.

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Freezone Business Setup. Launch fast with cost‑efficient licensing and 100% foreign ownership in leading UAE free zones.

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Mainland Business Setup. Trade across the UAE with a license that builds local credibility and access.

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Holding Company Setup. Own assets, shares, and IP under one roof with a clean, investor‑friendly structure

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Frequently asked questions

Who can open an offshore company in Dubai or the UAE?

Anyone over 18, of any nationality, can start an offshore company here. No UAE residency is required—international founders are most welcome.

What types of businesses are allowed under an offshore company?

Most offshore companies in the UAE focus on international trading, holding shares, managing assets, or intellectual property. Direct business inside the UAE (mainland) isn’t allowed.

What is the difference between offshore, free zone, and mainland companies?

Offshore: for international business, tax-friendly but no local market access. Free zone: operate within a designated UAE zone, limited mainland access. Mainland: full UAE market access, but with more rules.

Can I get a UAE residency visa with my offshore company?

No—offshore company setups do not allow for UAE residency visas. For that, free zone or mainland options are needed.

What documents are required for offshore business registration?

Typically: valid passport, proof of address, bank reference letter, CV, and sometimes a business plan. All must be notarised and, in many cases, attested. Check out our detailed article on documents required for offshore company.

Do I need to be in Dubai to form an offshore company?

You don’t have to show up in person. Most steps, including signing, can be managed remotely with certified documents. We'll align the complete setup for you, all you need to e-sign it.

Can my offshore company open a UAE or international bank account?

Yes, you can open corporate accounts in the UAE or abroad. Banks may require owner presence for final steps, though some international banks allow remote setup.

Is audit or annual tax filing required for UAE offshore companies?

Most UAE offshore companies are exempt from annual audits and tax filing. Some banks, however, may ask for simple financial statements. We'll help you in audit and tax filing if required.

What is the minimum share capital for offshore business setup in UAE?

There is no mandatory minimum share capital for most offshore structures. You set the amount based on your business plan.

Can I have 100% foreign ownership?

Yes—offshore companies in Dubai and the UAE offer 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required.

What privacy or confidentiality protections do UAE offshore firms offer?

Ownership details are not made public, giving strong privacy for directors and shareholders. Only authorities and licensed agents see these details.

Can my offshore company own property in Dubai or the UAE?

Usually, offshore entities can own property only in specific freehold zones and with certain authorities. Rules can change, so check with your agent.

What is a registered agent and why do I need one?

A registered agent is a locally licensed company that acts on your behalf. Offshore authorities only accept company registrations through these agents.

Check more Faqs

For everything you want to know about offshore business setup and more, we’ve created a dedicated page packed with clear answers. Or simply reach out to our expert team is ready to guide you. Just click the button below to get in touch.

Offshore Company Formation in Dubai (UAE)

Your Offshore Journey Starts Here

Launch your Dubai offshore company in record time —get expert guidance at every step, transparent paperwork, and bank-ready documentation right from the start.

Start Your Dubai Offshore Company with Full Ownership

Offshore UAE company advantages that matter. Built for global growth and Lower costs

Types of offshore companies in the UAE

Your trusted offshore partner in the UAE

Offshore and holding entities formed across RAK ICC, JAFZA, and Ajman

A dedicated relationship manager guides every step, we prepare a bank‑ready dossier, and we keep fees transparent.

Freezone vs Offshore Companies in UAE

Freezone

Offshore

How it works

Offshore Business Cost in 3 Different Zones

RAK ICC

Ajman Offshore

Jafza Dubai

Downloadable “bank-ready” KYC guide—real docs, instructions, and what banks look at (no more guessing).

Check what documents required for offshore business registration in UAE.

Your partners in business, not just incorporation

The Right Setup for your Business in Dubai, UAE.

Frequently asked questions