Offshore Company Formation in the UAE: Your Guide to International Business
Offshore Company Formation in UAE

An offshore company in Dubai or the UAE is a business entity that is registered in a jurisdiction outside
its primary country of operation. Unlike a mainland or free zone company, an offshore company
formation in the UAE is created exclusively for international business activities and cannot conduct
business within the UAE itself. This makes it an ideal option for global trading, asset protection, and tax
planning

Key Benefits of Offshore Company Formation

Offshore Company in Dubai – Your Opportunity for International Business

Choosing an offshore company formation in Dubai or the UAE offers significant advantages for
international entrepreneurs and investors:
  • 100% Foreign Ownership: This structure allows for complete ownership without the need for a local partner or agent.
  • Tax Efficiency: UAE offshore company formations offer a tax-neutral environment, with exemptions from corporate tax after meeting the criteria.
  • Asset Protection: It provides a strong legal framework for protecting assets and ensuring confidentiality.
  • Privacy: The details of the company's owners and directors are often not made public, offering a high level of privacy. from corporate tax after meeting the criteria.
  • Ease of Management: The registration and management process is straightforward and does not require a physical office space in the UAE.

Key Jurisdictions for Offshore Companies

The UAE has several jurisdictions for offshore company formation, with two of the most prominent
being:

  • Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA): JAFZA is a well-established and globally recognized hub for offshore companies, offering robust legal and financial frameworks.
  • Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC): RAK ICC is known for its costeffectiveness, quick setup process, and flexible corporate structures. It is a popular choice for international businesses and individuals

Business Activities Available in RAK ICC Companies

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.

How to Get Started

While the process for offshore company formation in UAE is relatively simple, it is best handled by a
professional business setup service provider. The key steps typically include:

How Does an Offshore Company Differ from a Free Zone and a Mainland One?

  • 1
    Choosing the Right Jurisdiction: Select the most suitable offshore center based on your business activities and budget.
  • 2
    Preparing Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as a passport copy and proof of address, business plan, etc.
  • 3
    Submitting the Application: The service provider submits your application to the relevant authority.
  • 4
    License Issuance: Upon approval, your offshore company will be officially registered and licensed.

By opting for an offshore company in Dubai, you can unlock a world of opportunities for international trade and investment.

Main Offshore Jurisdictions in UAE 

By opting for an offshore company in Dubai, you can unlock a world of opportunities for international
trade and investment.

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.
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. 

Business Activities Available in RAK ICC Companies

Business Activities Available in RAK ICC Companies

Worldwide
investments
and global
trade
Corporate
restructuring
and
domiciliation
International
tax planning, a
of offshore
company
formation in
Dubai
Worldwide
finance
transactions
Securitization
and ring-
fencing assets
International
real estate
properties and
assets
Holding
structures and
special
Purpose
and ring-
vehicles
Estate 
planning and
asset
protection
Offshore Company Formation in Dubai Applications
Offshore Company Formation in Dubai Applications
  • International trade
  • Formation of holding companies
  • Owning real estate
  • Registration of copyrights and patents
  • International consulting services

RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) 

RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) 
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.

Main Characteristics of an Offshore Company RAK ICC 

Main Characteristics of an Offshore Company RAK ICC 
  • 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.
How Do You Register an Offshore Company in RAK ICC?
How Do You Register an Offshore Company in RAK ICC?
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.
Types of Offshore Companies in RAK ICC 
Types of Offshore Companies in RAK ICC 
  • 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).
RAK ICC Foundation
RAK ICC Foundation
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.

Advantages of RAK ICC Foundation

Advantages of RAK ICC Foundation

01
Flexibility in management.
02
Concept of perpetual existence.
03
Flexibility in determining the circle of beneficiaries.

What is the Purpose of the Foundation?

What is the Purpose of the Foundation?

  • 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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