What is a UAE offshore company?
An offshore company is incorporated in the UAE but is not licensed to trade inside the UAE. It does not need a physical office and does not come with residence visas, which keeps running costs low. It is managed through a registered agent.
Common uses
- Holding shares in UAE and international companies
- Owning intellectual property, trademarks and investments
- International trading and consultancy outside the UAE
- Owning freehold property in designated areas of Dubai through approved registries, subject to Dubai Land Department rules
- Succession and asset-protection planning
Choosing a registry
Depending on where an offshore company is managed and controlled, it may have UAE corporate tax obligations. It must also keep an Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) register. We flag these points before you incorporate.
- RAK ICC: the most popular registry, with flexible corporate law and wide bank acceptance
- JAFZA Offshore: well suited to holding Dubai property and assets
- Ajman Offshore: a cost-effective option for simple holding structures
What's included
- Registry selection
- Name reservation
- Registered agent and registered office
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Certificate of incorporation and share certificates
- UBO register filing
- Bank account introductions
Our process
- 01
Structure review
We confirm an offshore company fits your goals and choose the registry.
- 02
Name & KYC
We reserve the name and complete due diligence on shareholders.
- 03
Incorporation
The registry issues your certificate of incorporation and constitution.
- 04
Documents & banking
You receive your corporate documents and bank introductions.
Documents usually required
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Proof of residential address
- Bank reference letter or CV, depending on the registry
- Brief description of the company purpose
Requirements vary by authority and activity. We send you a tailored checklist after your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Can an offshore company get UAE residence visas?
No. Offshore companies are not licensed to operate in the UAE, so they cannot sponsor residence visas. If you need visas, a free zone or mainland company is the right choice.
Can an offshore company trade inside the UAE?
No. Offshore companies can do business outside the UAE and hold assets, but cannot trade with customers inside the UAE.
Can a UAE offshore company own property in Dubai?
Companies registered with approved registries such as RAK ICC and JAFZA Offshore can own freehold property in designated areas of Dubai, subject to Dubai Land Department requirements.
Do I need to visit the UAE to form an offshore company?
Usually not. Offshore companies can generally be formed remotely. Opening a UAE bank account for the company may require a visit.
