Offshore Company Formation in the UAE – Protect Your Assets Internationally
Ensure flexibility, anonymity, and tax benefits with your offshore company in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah.
The United Arab Emirates offers ideal conditions for establishing offshore companies: no corporate taxes, utmost discretion, flexible structures, and international recognition.
Adler & Partners supports you every step of the way – from selecting the best location to complete company formation and bank account setup.
Whether for asset protection, international trade, or efficient holding structures, our experts provide tailored offshore solutions for entrepreneurs, investors, and family offices worldwide.
Types of Offshore Business Licenses
Adler & Partners maintains a close partnership with the RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) in Ras Al Khaimah – one of the leading offshore jurisdictions in the United Arab Emirates. Through RAK ICC, we offer our clients the formation of offshore companies with a variety of specialized license types tailored to different industries and business models.
Carefully selecting the appropriate license is crucial to ensuring maximum operational flexibility and meeting all regulatory requirements.
To identify the optimal structure and avoid risks, it is advisable to rely on registered agents like Adler & Partners, who work with RAK ICC daily. Based on our extensive experience, the following license types at RAK ICC are among the most popular options for international entrepreneurs and investors:
Commercial License
With a Commercial License, offshore companies can conduct international trade activities in compliance with legal requirements. This license is ideal for businesses offering goods or services across borders or establishing global trade relationships.
Typical applications include the import and export of products, international distribution, as well as holding and managing trade contracts.
Companies with a Commercial License benefit from maximum flexibility in accessing international markets – without the need for a physical presence in the United Arab Emirates.
Other Licenses
Consulting License
Healthcare License
Education License
Why Are These Licenses So Important for Your Business in the UAE?
Asset Protection
Individuals and businesses can safeguard their assets, such as real estate, investments, intellectual property, etc., from legal proceedings, political instability, and more.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
Details about business ownership and financial information are not disclosed, ensuring anonymity and privacy.
Currency Diversification
Individuals and businesses can conduct transactions in a stable currency, reducing exposure to fluctuations in their home currency.
International Business Expansion
Establishing an offshore company in the UAE grants access to global markets, enhancing credibility and trust with international partners.
Häufig Gestellte Fragen
Offshore Company allows foreign investors to own and operate a business in the UAE without having a physical presence in the country. Offshore Companies also enjoy various tax and financial benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, exemption from personal and corporate income tax, no restriction on currency exchange, etc.
There are three main offshore jurisdictions in the UAE:
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Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority Offshore (JAFZA Offshore)
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Ajman Offshore
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Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)
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No. Offshore companies in UAE free zones are subject to specific regulations that restrict their operations to conducting business outside the UAE. These companies are not permitted to engage in commercial activities within the UAE market, meaning they cannot sell goods or services to customers within the country.
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100% repatriation of capital and profits
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0% VAT, Corporate Income Tax, Personal Income Tax
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The time taken to incorporate an offshore company in the UAE can vary depending on several factors, including the chosen free zone, the completeness of the required documentation, the efficiency of the registration process, and any additional approvals that may be needed. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Yes, you can open a bank account for your Offshore Company but not in all UAE banks. For example, Mashreq bank, EIB, Ajman Bank and some others do not open accounts for offshore companies because of internal policies.
The specific requirements may vary depending on the bank, but generally, you will need the following documents:
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Completed bank account opening application form
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Company incorporation documents
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Business license and trade license
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Memorandum and Articles of Association
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Proof of address for shareholders/directors
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Proof of address for the registered agent
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Passport copies of shareholders/directors
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Business plan and financial statements
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Introduction letter from the company's sponsor or a reputable reference
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No, as the primary purpose of an Offshore Company in the UAE is to facilitate international business and manage assets outside the country. Offshore Companies are not permitted to conduct business activities within the UAE mainland or lease office space for operating within the country.
The costs associated with setting up and maintaining an Offshore Company in the UAE depends on the authority you’ve chosen. Normally, the cost involved starts from AED 12,000 excluding registered agent fee.
Generally not, however, there are some exceptions in certain free zones where dual licenses are available. Dual licenses allow offshore companies to operate as a local company within the respective free zone. In such cases, the offshore company may be permitted to own real estate properties within the free zone where it holds the dual license.
Yes, UAE offshore companies have certain reporting obligations. However, these reporting requirements are typically less stringent compared to companies operating in the mainland.
Here are some general reporting obligations for Offshore Companies in the UAE:
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Offshore Companies must keep their contact information, such as the registered address, email, and phone numbers, up to date with the free zone authority
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While offshore companies are not required to submit audited financial statements, they should maintain proper financial records and accounts in accordance with international accounting standards
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Offshore Companies are subject to anti-money laundering regulations, and they may be required to cooperate with authorities in AML investigations
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Offshore Companies may be required to comply with tax regulations in their home country and disclose relevant financial information to tax authorities as per the applicable tax laws
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Generally it’s not allowed. But there are some exceptions in certain free zones where dual licenses are available. Dual licenses allow offshore companies to operate as a local company within the respective free zone. In such cases, the offshore company may be eligible to sponsor residency visas for its employees working within the free zone.
No, offshore companies in the UAE are typically allowed to freely repatriate their profits and capital to their home country or other international accounts without any restrictions or taxes.
Offshore Company Formation Process
The process of registering an offshore company at the RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) involves several steps:
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Choose the Company Type
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Submit the Documents
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Receive the Business License and Documents
Holding License
With a Holding License, offshore companies can own, manage, and structure shares in other companies, real estate, or other assets.
This license is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors seeking efficient international asset planning and structuring.
A holding company is particularly suitable for optimizing ownership structures, protecting assets, and simplifying inheritance and succession planning – without engaging in operational activities in the United Arab Emirates.
Professional License
With a Professional License, offshore companies can offer specialized services in areas such as consulting, management, technology, or education. This license is designed for individuals and businesses looking to market their professional expertise internationally.
A Professional License is ideal for consultants, engineers, IT experts, trainers, or anyone providing knowledge-based services rather than trading physical goods – all without the need for a physical presence in the UAE.
Service License
With a Service License, offshore companies can engage in a variety of non-trading business activities, particularly in the services sector. This license is suitable for companies offering services such as marketing, logistics, event management, project development, or administrative support on an international scale.
The Service License provides maximum flexibility for service providers aiming to operate globally – without requiring a fixed location within the United Arab Emirates.
