- Registries
- RAK ICC, JAFZA
- Office needed
- No
- Registration
- 1–2 weeks
- Indicative from
- AED 9,800
What is a UAE offshore company?
A UAE offshore company is registered with an international corporate registry, most commonly RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) or JAFZA Offshore. It isn't licensed to trade in the UAE and doesn't need premises. Instead, it's a holding vehicle: it owns things on your behalf and keeps them separate from your personal name.
What it's used for
- Holding company for shares in your other UAE or international companies.
- Property ownership in approved freehold areas of Dubai and other emirates.
- Intellectual property such as trademarks, software and licensing rights.
- Asset protection and succession planning, keeping assets in one structure.
- International trading and invoicing outside the UAE.
What an offshore company can't do
No onshore trading and no visas. An offshore company can't do business inside the UAE, rent office space for operations, or sponsor residence visas. If you need any of those, look at a free zone or mainland company. A common setup is an offshore holding company that owns a free zone or mainland operating company.
RAK ICC or JAFZA Offshore?
| RAK ICC | JAFZA Offshore | |
|---|---|---|
| Best known for | Flexible, cost-effective holding structures | Long-established Dubai brand |
| Dubai freehold property | Allowed in approved areas | Allowed in approved areas |
| Shareholder register | Not public | Not public |
| Annual renewal | Required | Required |
How to form an offshore company: 5 steps
- Choose the registry and company nameWe recommend RAK ICC or JAFZA based on what the company will own.
- Know-your-customer checksRegistries require due diligence on every shareholder and director.
- Prepare constitutional documentsMemorandum and Articles of Association, director and shareholder registers.
- RegistrationThe registry issues your certificate of incorporation, usually within one to two weeks.
- Bank accountWe prepare a bank-ready file and introduce you to suitable UAE banks.
Documents you'll need
- Passport copies for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement, recent)
- A bank reference letter or CV, depending on the registry
- A short description of what the company will hold or do
- For corporate shareholders: certified incorporation documents and ownership chart
How much does it cost?
Offshore registration starts from about AED 9,800 including registry fees and our service, with an annual renewal fee each year. Bank account assistance and property-related approvals are quoted separately. See our cost guide or the estimator.
Offshore FAQs
Can a UAE offshore company get residence visas?
No. Offshore companies cannot sponsor residence visas. If you need a visa, a free zone or mainland company is the right route.
Can an offshore company trade inside the UAE?
No. An offshore company cannot do business onshore in the UAE. It is used for holding assets, owning shares or IP, and international activity.
Can an offshore company open a UAE bank account?
Yes, many UAE banks open accounts for offshore companies, subject to their due diligence. Expect detailed questions about the source of funds and the purpose of the company.
Do I need to visit the UAE?
Registration can usually be completed remotely through a registered agent. Some banks may ask to meet you in person when opening an account.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Registry rules and fees change, so your written quote confirms current requirements.
