Offshore Company Formation Dubai
Welcome to Charteredo, your trusted partner for Offshore Company Formation and Setup in the UAE. With years of experience, we now support clients across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and beyond, helping businesses establish secure and compliant offshore entities with ease.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us. Phone: +971 50 297 4262
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Offshore Company Formation Services in UAE
Setting up an offshore company in Dubai is a strategic choice for business owners who want to expand globally while enjoying strong financial and structural advantages. Offshore company formation offers benefits such as seamless international operations, asset protection, and attractive tax exemptions. Unlike mainland or free zone businesses, offshore entities do not receive an operating license — instead, they are issued a Certificate of Incorporation, making the setup process simple and efficient.
- Providing a portal for global market expansion
- Access to a more flexible regulatory framework
- Protecting assets and minimizing risk
Our Offshore Company Formation Covers :
Jurisdiction Selection Guidance
We help you choose the most suitable offshore jurisdiction—such as RAK ICC or JAFZA—based on your business model, compliance needs, and long-term objectives.
Documentation Preparation & Filing
We prepare, verify, and submit all required documents, including passport copies, proof of address, MOA/AOA, and bank reference letters, ensuring an accurate and seamless application process
Drafting MOA & AOA
Our experts prepare legally compliant Memorandum and Articles of Association tailored to your company’s structure and operational goals.
RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)
RAK International Corporate Centre is one of the UAE’s most reputable offshore jurisdictions, known for its business-friendly environment, flexible regulations, and streamlined setup procedures. It enables entrepreneurs and investors to establish offshore entities quickly while minimizing administrative hurdles.
Key Features of a RAK ICC Offshore Company
Shareholders:
Corporate entities can act as shareholders, with at least one shareholder required. International corporate shareholders must provide properly authenticated business documents.
Directors:
Corporate directors are not allowed. A minimum of two individual directors is required, and director details are not disclosed in the public registry.
Secretary:
Every company must appoint a secretary. One of the directors may also serve as the company secretary.
Share Capital:
There is no mandatory minimum share capital requirement for incorporation.
Annual Reporting:
Companies must maintain accounting records for ten years from the date they are prepared. An auditor, appointed from an approved list, must examine the accounts and issue an audit report
Benefits of Establishing an Offshore Business in RAK
Setting up an offshore company in RAK International Corporate Centre offers several strong advantages for global investors:
100% Foreign Ownership
There is no requirement for local shareholders under RAK ICC regulations, giving investors complete control over their company.
Local Bank Accounts
An offshore company can open multiple bank accounts across the UAE to facilitate smooth international transactions.
Ability to Hold Shares in UAE Companies
Although offshore companies cannot conduct business with individuals in the UAE, they can legally own shares in both Free Zone and Mainland (LLC) entities.
Fast Incorporation Process
Once all required documents are submitted, forming an offshore company in RAK typically takes less than one week.
High Level of Confidentiality
RAK ICC does not publish the names of shareholders or directors in any public register, ensuring privacy and protection for company owners.
RAK International Corporate Centre is one of the UAE’s most reputable offshore jurisdictions, known for its business-friendly environment, flexible regulations, and streamlined setup procedures. It enables entrepreneurs and investors to establish offshore entities quickly while minimizing administrative hurdles.
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Jebel Ali Free Zone is one of the UAE’s most reputable business jurisdictions, offering excellent advantages for establishing offshore companies. Its prime location next to Jebel Ali Port provides outstanding global connectivity, making it a preferred destination for international trade and investment. The free zone is known for its strong regulatory structure and extensive business support services.
Key Features of a JAFZA Offshore Company
Shareholders
Corporate entities may act as shareholders, with at least one shareholder required. All documents of foreign corporate shareholders must be authenticated.
Directors
Corporate directors are allowed, with a minimum of one director. Director details are not disclosed in any public register.
Secretary
Appointment of a company secretary is mandatory. A director may also serve as the secretary.
Share Capital
There is no minimum capital requirement for incorporation.
Annual Reporting
Companies must maintain accounting records for seven years from the date they are prepared. Financial accounts do not need to be submitted to the authorities.
Benefits of Offshore Company Registration in JAFZA
Setting up an offshore company under JAFZA Offshore Registry offers several unique advantages for global investors and businesses:
100% Foreign Ownership
No local shareholding is required, allowing investors full control over their offshore company.
Ownership of Dubai Real Estate
Among all UAE offshore jurisdictions, only JAFZA offshore companies are permitted to directly own property in Dubai. Ownership is subject to approvals from both the free zone and the property developer.
Ability to Hold Shares in UAE Companies
While offshore companies cannot conduct business with UAE residents, they can legally hold shares in both Free Zone and Mainland (LLC) companies. Documents intended for use in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, or Bahrain do not require attestation.
Multi-Currency Bank Accounts
JAFZA offshore entities can open multi-currency accounts in UAE banks, making international business transactions seamless.
Confidentiality of Shareholders and Directors
JAFZA does not publish the personal details of shareholders or directors, ensuring privacy and protection.
Regulatory Oversight
The registrar may appoint inspectors to review company affairs when required. All inspection costs are borne by the company owner.
What is the Procedure for Starting an Offshore Company in Dubai?
Setting up an offshore company in Dubai requires following a clear process to ensure smooth registration and full compliance with UAE regulations. Below is a simplified step-by-step guide to help you form your offshore entity with ease.
Choose an Offshore Jurisdiction
Popular options include RAK International Corporate Centre and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA). Select the jurisdiction that best aligns with your business model and regulatory needs.
Select a Business Name
Choose a unique company name that follows local naming rules. The name must end with “Limited” or “Incorporated” and cannot include restricted terms such as “bank” or “insurance.”
Prepare the Required Documents
Collect and verify essential documentation, including:
- Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- A business plan describing your activities
- Bank reference letter
- No Objection Certificate (if you are a UAE resident)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
Submit the Application
Complete the application and submit it to the chosen offshore registry along with all supporting documents. Any discrepancies can delay approval, so accuracy is essential.
Pay the Applicable Fees
Registration fees typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 40,000, depending on the jurisdiction and additional services required.
Draft the MOA and AOA
Once your application is approved, prepare the MOA and AOA to outline your company’s structure, objectives, and internal governance.
Receive the Certificate of Incorporation
After final verification, the offshore registry will issue your Certificate of Incorporation, officially establishing your offshore company.
Open an Offshore Bank Account
Choose a UAE bank that supports offshore corporate accounts. The bank will conduct detailed KYC checks before activation.
Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Keep proper accounting records, renew your company annually, and follow the legal requirements set by your offshore jurisdiction to remain compliant.
What are the documents required for offshore company formation?
To set up an offshore company in Dubai, it’s important to ensure that all required documents are prepared accurately and in line with local regulations. Below is a clear and concise list of everything you need:
Passport Copies
Clear, valid passport copies of all shareholders and directors.
Proof of Residential Address
A recent utility bill or bank statement as verification of each shareholder’s and director’s residential address.
Comprehensive Business Plan
A detailed description of your business model, objectives, target markets, and operational strategy to help authorities review your application.
Bank Reference Letter
A reference letter from your current personal bank confirming your financial credibility.
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
For UAE residents, a NOC from your employer or sponsor is required.
Power of Attorney
A notarized Power of Attorney if a representative will handle the company formation on your behalf.
Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
Legal documents outlining your company structure, objectives, and governance framework.
Can an offshore company open a bank account in the UAE?
Yes. Offshore companies are permitted to open multi-currency corporate bank accounts in UAE banks. Charteredo assists with documentation, KYC requirements, and coordination with banking institutions to simplify the process.
How long does it take to register an offshore company?
Offshore company formation is usually fast and efficient. With complete documentation, the incorporation process typically takes 3 to 7 working days.
Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to form an offshore company?
In most cases, physical presence is not required. Remote incorporation is allowed through verified documentation and digital signatures, depending on the chosen jurisdiction.
Can an offshore company conduct business inside the UAE?
No. Offshore companies are strictly prohibited from conducting commercial activities within the UAE mainland. They are primarily used for international operations, holding assets, and investment activities.
Is an offshore company required to have an office space in the UAE?
No physical office is required. Offshore companies operate through a registered agent and registered address provided by authorized service providers.
Does an offshore company need to file financial statements or undergo an audit?
Requirements vary by jurisdiction:
RAK ICC: Mandatory bookkeeping and annual audited financial statements.
JAFZA Offshore: Must maintain records for 7 years, but audit submission may not be required.
Charteredo provides full support for offshore accounting and compliance.
Can a foreigner fully own an offshore company in Dubai?
Yes. Offshore jurisdictions allow 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor or shareholder.
Why should I choose Charteredo for offshore company formation?
Charteredo offers:
End-to-end offshore setup and compliance support
Expertise in RAK ICC and JAFZA regulations
Bank account opening assistance
Drafting of MOA/AOA and all legal documentation
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Ongoing advisory, renewal, and compliance services