Offshore Company Setup

Offshore Company setup

Offshore Company Setup

The UAE Offshore Company, also known as a UAE Offshore International Company, is a corporate entity established within the UAE free zones. Its main purpose is to engage in business activities outside the UAE borders. These companies offer various benefits, such as tax relief, complete foreign ownership, confidentiality, and limited liability.

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024
| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

Incorporating offshore in the UAE facilitates efficient business operations and asset ownership in the Middle East. It eliminates the need for extensive attestation processes of company documents by various embassies and Ministries of Foreign Affairs, thereby streamlining operations for greater profitability.

Discover Offshore Opportunities: Set Sail for Success in the UAE

Explore the myriad benefits of your offshore company setup in renowned UAE jurisdictions like Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA Dubai), Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), and Ajman Offshore (AFZ). These tax-free zones are dedicated to catering to offshore businesses, providing a seamless incorporation process and allowing for full ownership. While your operations must remain outside the UAE, leveraging these strategic locations offers a plethora of advantages.

By opting for an offshore company setup in the UAE, you unlock a wider scope for conducting business activities. Whether you’re expanding your global footprint or tapping into new markets, the UAE’s favorable business environment facilitates growth and expansion. Additionally, the streamlined setup processes in these jurisdictions ensure a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on driving your business forward.

Moreover, the UAE’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa offers unparalleled logistics advantages. Access to world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and efficient transportation networks enhances your operational efficiency and reduces costs. Furthermore, the prime locations of these jurisdictions provide proximity to key markets, enabling you to capitalize on emerging opportunities swiftly.

One of the most compelling advantages of opting for offshore company incorporation in the UAE is the opportunity to retain 100% ownership of your business. Unlike in many other jurisdictions, where ownership restrictions may apply, the UAE offers a business-friendly environment that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation. This degree of control enables you to make strategic decisions and confidently guide your company toward success.

Types of Offshore License offered in the
UAE

An offshore company setup in Dubai can choose from many licenses. Having various types of licenses available allows offshore firms to operate according to their specific needs and preferences. This flexibility simplifies their startup process and facilitates growth. To benefit from a dynamic and adaptable business environment, explore the diverse range of licenses tailored for offshore businesses.

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

General Trading License

This license enables you to engage in trading activities, which is essential if your firm deals with a diverse range of goods and services.

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

Holding License

This particular license is crafted for companies registered outside the UAE, enabling them to possess assets, subsidiary companies, property, and intellectual property.

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

Investment License

This license empowers companies to acquire and trade an extensive array of international investment instruments, including foreign currencies, futures, options, and more. It encompasses both listed and unlisted shares in other companies, bonds, commodities, and similar assets.

General Documents Required for
Offshore Company Setup

Documents Required for Offshore Company Setup - Individual Shareholder

  • Passport Copy (Valid for at least 6 months)
  • Visa Page Copy (if applicable)
  • Emirate ID (if applicable)
  • Passport-sized Photos
  • Personal Information Sheet or Application Form

Documents Required for Offshore Company Setup - Corporate Shareholder

  • Company Trade License / Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum of Association
  • Board of Resolution for Company Setup and Appointment of Authorized Signatory
  • UBO List
  • Incumbency Certificate
  • Passport, Visa & Emirates ID copy of Company Manager

Business Structures in Offshore

In the UAE, you have the flexibility to choose from a range of legal structures for offshore company setup, allowing you to tailor it to your specific requirements. This diversity simplifies the selection process, offering numerous benefits. For instance, you can benefit from asset protection, tax savings, and the ability to conduct business globally. Regardless of the structure you choose for your offshore firm, you can expect significant advantages.

Limited Liability Company LLC

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

The primary purpose of establishing an offshore Limited Liability Company (LLC) is to provide business owners with a key advantage: limited liability. This means that your assets are separate from your company’s debts and legal obligations. Additionally, your LLC’s income may receive preferential tax treatment.

International Business Company IBC

In the UAE, International Business Companies (IBCs) are established primarily for conducting business activities outside of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with minimal operations within the UAE itself. One of the significant advantages of an IBC is the exemption from taxes and duties. This can significantly alleviate the financial burden on firms engaged in international trade or investment activities.

| Emirates EBCS | April, 2024

Discover the Benefits of Offshore Company Setup in the UAE

Tax Advantages

UAE offshore firms benefit from tax advantages and keep most profits. They can easily repatriate earnings, fueling company growth.

Optimal Location

Dubai’s strategic location connects East and West, making it an ideal hub for global businesses. With top-notch airports and seaports, offshore firms enjoy seamless importing and exporting opportunities.

Sole Ownership

In Dubai, offshore firms offer 100% foreign ownership, granting complete control without requiring a local partner. This autonomy empowers you with greater freedom and authority over your business operations.

Domestic Property Ownership

Offshore companies in RAK and JAFZA can own Dubai real estate directly, offering a prime opportunity for investment in the city’s thriving property market, providing flexibility and long-term growth potential.

Equity Participation

While offshore firms typically cannot engage in business with UAE residents, officials in RAK and JAFZA permit offshore entities to hold shares in both free zones and onshore (LLC) firms. This allows for strategic partnerships and collaboration with local businesses.

Zero Share Capital Prerequisites

In the UAE, offshore company setup has no minimum share capital requirements, allowing you to start with capital that fits your needs and manage it easily.

More About Offshore Company Setup

Europe

Caribbean

Asia Pacific

America

Steps in Setting Up Offshore Company in the UAE

    Choose your company name & activities

    The first step in establishing an Offshore business involves identifying the company's intended activities and selecting a name that aligns with the business while avoiding any potential offense or sensitivity, whether religious, political, or otherwise.

    Find a registered agent

    The appointed agent will support you in managing the necessary communication and administrative tasks required for establishing an Offshore Company.

    Send in your application & documents

    Compiling all the required documents as per the provided list is a crucial step in the Offshore Company setup procedure. Once gathered, these documents are submitted for thorough review.

    Prepare your MOA & AOA

    Before submission, your company's Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) must undergo notarization and translation into Arabic.

    Open your corporate bank account

    Conclude by establishing a bank account for your Offshore Company's corporate transactions in the UAE. Ensure that the necessary bank documents are included with the rest of your company application.