Park Place Tower, 1603 Trade Center First, Dubai UAE

Offshore Business Setup in Dubai & UAE

Secure tax advantages, privacy, and global reach with offshore company formation in the UAE.

Why Choose Offshore Business Setup in UAE?

An offshore company in the UAE is the perfect choice for global entrepreneurs seeking tax advantages, confidentiality, and asset protection. With 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or income tax, and simplified regulations, offshore jurisdictions like RAKICC, JAFZA, and Ajman offer cost-effective solutions for international trade, investment holding, and wealth management, without the need for a physical office in the UAE.

  • 100% Foreign Ownership – Full control of your business with no local sponsor required.
  • Zero Taxation – No corporate, personal income, or capital gains tax on offshore companies.
  • Asset Protection & Privacy – Secure wealth management with strong confidentiality rules.
  • Cost-Effective Setup – Lower registration and maintenance costs compared to other jurisdictions.
  • No Office Requirement – Offshore companies can be incorporated without leasing physical office space.
  • Global Reach – Ideal for international trade, holding structures, and investment activities.

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    Types of Offshore Jurisdictions in UAE

    Jurisdiction Key Benefits Best Suited For
     
    RAK ICC Offshore Cost-effective, fast registration, strong legal framework International trading, holding companies
     
    JAFZA Offshore High credibility, Dubai location, better reputation globally Larger corporations, investment structures
     
    Ajman Offshore Affordable setup, quick approval Small to medium businesses, startups
     

    Not sure which offshore jurisdiction is right for you? Get tailored advice from our consultants.

    Offshore vs Free Zone vs Mainland

    Factor Offshore Free Zone Mainland
    Market Reach Global, not UAE local market Free Zone + International Entire UAE Market
    Ownership 100% 100% 100% (for most activities)
    Office Requirement Not required Optional (Flexi-desk) Mandatory
    Tax Benefits No corporate/income tax 0% for qualifying Free Zone activities Subject to UAE Corporate Tax
    Credibility Good for asset protection Good for trade/export High for local trading & govt contracts

    Mainland vs Free Zone Business Setup – Which is Right for You?

    FactorMainland Business SetupFree Zone Business Setup
    Market ReachOperate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE without limitations.Restricted to Free Zone area & international trade (local trading requires distributor/agent).
    OwnershipUp to 100% foreign ownership available for most activities.100% foreign ownership in all Free Zones.
    Business ActivitiesAccess to 3,000+ activities across multiple sectors.Activities limited to the scope allowed by each Free Zone.
    Government ContractsEligible to bid for UAE government projects and tenders.Not eligible for government contracts.
    Office RequirementMust lease or rent a physical office space.Flexi-desk, virtual offices, or shared office options available.
    Setup CostSlightly higher due to office lease & government fees.Generally lower with cost-effective startup packages.
    ExpansionFreedom to open branches anywhere in the UAE.Expansion is limited to Free Zone jurisdiction.

    Still unsure whether Offshore or Free Zone or Mainland is right for you? Talk to our experts for personalized advice.

    Documents Required for Offshore Setup

    • Passport copies of shareholders/directors
    • Proof of address
    • Bank reference letter / bank statement
    • Proposed company name & activity details

    Testimonials

    Bharat Gaur

    It was an amazing experience for me to open my furniture business setup with you. Thank you all and special thanks to the business banking team who opened my business bank account smooth. You are the best business setup company in Dubai and UAE. Too simple and easy

    Bharat Gaur

    Mikhael Glen Lataza

    The best partner to start your business in Dubai or anywhere in UAE. This company provides the fastest service for the best price. Totally recommended.

    Mikhael Glen Lataza

    Omran Al Farsi

    The Manager Ziad is very proffessional and he helped me in every step from scratch to fully operational to setup my company “Unified Home” for technical services contracting. He answered all my questions and went above and beyond with his excellence in service and co operative team. I highly recommend (Assertive Zone) for people who want to invest and start their business journey successfully without regulatory or legal issues

    Omran Al Farsi

    Frequently Asked Questions

    No, an offshore company cannot conduct business within the UAE local market. Its activities are limited to international trade, asset holding, investment management, and other cross-border operations. For local trading, a Mainland or Free Zone company is required.

    The setup process is quick and efficient. With the right documents and approvals, most offshore companies in UAE (RAKICC, JAFZA, or Ajman) can be incorporated within 3–7 working days.

    Both jurisdictions offer unique benefits. RAK ICC is popular for its cost-effectiveness and fast registration, while JAFZA Offshore provides a stronger reputation and credibility for large corporations or businesses looking for global recognition.

    In most cases, physical presence is not required. Offshore companies can usually be incorporated remotely through a registered agent. However, some banks may require a personal visit for account opening.

    Annual renewal fees vary by jurisdiction but are generally lower compared to Free Zone or Mainland setups. Costs typically include government fees, agent charges, and certificate renewals, starting from around AED 6,000–10,000 depending on the offshore authority.

    Still have questions about Offshore Business Setup in UAE? Contact Assertive Zone for expert guidance tailored to your needs.