Offshore Companies in the UAE
Offshore companies are legal entities established in jurisdictions outside their
country of residence, offering favorable tax and regulatory environments. In the UAE,offshore companies are designed for businesses operating internationally without a physical presence in the UAE.
100% Foreign Ownership:
Offshore companies offer full foreign ownership
Tax Benefits:
No corporate or income taxes, and no VAT.
Confidentiality:
High levels of privacy regarding company ownership and financial information.
Asset Protection:
Offshore companies are often used for asset protection and estate planning
No Office Requirement:
Offshore companies do not require physical office space in the UAE.
Examples of Offshore Jurisdictions in the UAE
Jebel Ali Offshore (JAFZA Offshore):
A well-regarded offshore jurisdiction in
Dubai.
Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)
Known for its
straightforward setup process and strong regulatory framework.
Limitations:
No Business in UAE:
Offshore companies cannot conduct business within the
UAE and are limited to international operations.
No Residency Visa:
Offshore company setup does not grant UAE residency
visas.
Major Difference Between Free Zone and Offshore Setup
Free Zone
Ideal for businesses aiming to operate within the UAE or targeting Middle Eastern markets with a physical presence
Offshore
: Best suited for international businesses seeking tax efficiency and asset protection without the need for a physical presence or local market operations.