Offshore companies are established in jurisdictions unrelated to a company’s original location or business activity. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an offshore company in Dubai is a designated free zone with separate laws and regulations that have a registered business activity. These companies are considered separate from mainland laws and carry out their own specialized legislation within the free zones.
Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a well-known jurisdiction for establishing an offshore company.
Offshore companies are established to target international business activities. They cannot conduct business or carry out business operations in the UAE. Offshore companies have their own set of compliances and regulations that must be followed to avoid challenges or fines.
Zero taxes
no corporate and income tax, making offshore company formation in UAE highly attractive
Confidentiality
information about owners is not published
Flexibility
the possibility of conducting international business without restrictions
Simple registration
a minimal package of documents and quick processing
Banking infrastructure
access to reliable financial institutions for your offshore company in Dubai
Global expansion
conduct business worldwide using the prestige of UAE
Minimal requirements
no requirements for office, audit, and capital
Gatestone Group will help you register an offshore company in Dubai without unnecessary complications, providing personalized solutions for each client.
- A free zone company – operates inside the UAE but is limited to a specific free zone.
- A mainland company – conducts activities throughout the UAE and requires a local sponsor.
- An offshore company – cannot conduct business in UAE but freely operates worldwide.
Main Offshore Jurisdictions in UAE
When choosing a jurisdiction for an offshore company formation in UAE, it is important to consider the specifics of each zone. The country has two main jurisdictions for offshore companies:
JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority)
Requires the physical presence of a shareholder during registration.
Allows ownership of real estate in Dubai.
High level of confidentiality and asset protection.
Suitable for large international holdings.
RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre)
The most affordable and popular jurisdiction for offshore company formation in Dubai.
Fast registration (3–5 working days).
The possibility of owning international assets.
Flexible corporate structures.
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International trade- Formation of holding companies
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- Registration of copyrights and patents
- International consulting services
The RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) represents one of the most economically efficient options for corporate registration, providing specialized opportunities in sectors such as maritime transportation and technology. The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah boasts the highest level of industrialization within the United Arab Emirates, rendering RAK ICC a preferred choice for numerous investors seeking to establish a company. The government of Ras Al Khaimah has instituted the framework for offshore companies under the regulation of the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority International Companies Regulations 2006.
- The minimum requirement is the presence of one shareholder, with corporate shareholders permitted.
- The minimum requirement stipulates the presence of two directors; however, it is important to note that corporate directors are not permitted.
- Data about directors are not displayed in the public register.
- A company secretary must be appointed.
- Minimum paid-up share capital is not required for offshore company formation in Dubai.
- It is imperative to maintain accounting records for a duration of seven years from the date of their preparation.
- Offshore companies RAK ICC cannot use in the name words such as imperial, insurance, municipal, Chamber of Commerce, chartered, co-operative, assurance, bank, building society, fund, mutual fund, royal, or trust.
- A registered address is necessary.
- Disclosure of information about ultimate beneficial owners (UBO) is required.
- Mandatory compliance with the requirements for Economic Substance (Economic Substance Regulations, ESR).
- Various options for the legal structure are available.
Gatestone Group will assist in the process of registering an offshore company in RAK ICC, including the following stages:
- Selection of a company name ending in "Limited" or "Incorporated".
- Indication of the registered address of the company (can be the address of a registered agent, such as Gatestone Group).
- Determination of the type of activity and structure of the company.
- Determination of the share capital, number of shares, and their nominal value.
- Company Limited by Shares (CLS) includes holding companies, special project vehicles (SPVs), joint ventures (JVs), international companies, project companies, and family offices.
- Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC).
- Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG).
- Unlimited Company (UC).
The RAK ICC Foundation, regulated by the RAK ICC Foundations Regulations 2019, is a legal entity separate from its founders and registered in RAK ICC. The foundation allocates specific assets for particular charitable or non-charitable purposes.
01
Flexibility in management.
02
Concept of perpetual existence.
03
Flexibility in determining the circle of beneficiaries.
- Succession planning and asset protection.
- Creation of a reliable corporate governance structure.
- Control through an appointed observer (Guardian).
- Possession of a unique legal personality, allowing separation of liability from the founder while maintaining control over assets.
FAQs
1. What types of businesses can set up an offshore company in the UAE?
Companies that engage in international trade, hold assets, attract foreign investment, or seek tax optimisation often find significant advantages in the offshore framework.
2. Can I conduct business within the UAE with an offshore company?
No, it is not permitted to conduct your business in the UAE with an offshore company. Offshore company formation in Dubai is primarily intended for international activities and trade. Domestic business within the UAE requires a mainland company license.
3. What company structures can be formed as an offshore company incorporation?
The permitted company structures for offshore companies are: Limited liability companies (LLCs) Limited companies Limited partnerships
4. Can I obtain a UAE resident visa through a UAE offshore company?
Requirements may vary based on the chosen free zone, but typically involve documentation such as business plans, passport copies, and relevant licenses.
5. What documents do I need to provide for offshore company formation?
The necessary documentation generally comprises passports, proof of residence, details regarding business activities, and bank references. Specific requirements may differ based on the selected jurisdiction.
6. What is the minimum initial capital requirement for the RAK ICC Foundation in the UAE?
The minimum capital requirement in RAK ICC is USD 100 (or equivalent in any currency).
7. How many members are required in a RAK ICC Foundation Council?
The RAK ICC Foundation Council must have a minimum of two members.
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Contact Us
- Office 1416, The Binary by Omniyat Marasi Drive Street, Business Bay, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- +971 4 450 1023
- +971 52 410 0849
- +44 7385 807 875
- +971 52 410 0849
- info@gatestonegroup.com
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