A Strategic Tool for International Trade and Asset Protection
A UAE offshore company is a powerful legal entity designed for managing international business and investments. Our expert service streamlines the registration process in premier offshore jurisdictions like RAK ICC and JAFZA.
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What is a UAE Offshore Company?
A UAE offshore company, also known as an International Business Company (IBC), is a legal entity that is registered in the UAE but is not permitted to conduct business within the country. Its primary purpose is to facilitate international trade, act as a holding company for global assets, and provide a secure, tax-efficient corporate structure.
Unlike a free zone or mainland company, an offshore entity does not provide residence visas. It is purely a corporate tool for financial and operational structuring. The most prominent offshore jurisdictions in the UAE are RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) and Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Offshore.
Primary Benefits of a UAE Offshore Company
Asset Protection & Confidentiality
Shield your assets from liabilities and maintain a high degree of privacy and confidentiality for shareholders.
Tax Efficiency
Benefit from a zero corporate tax environment for your international profits and transactions.
Ease of International Trade
Simplify your import/export operations by using a UAE-based entity for international invoicing.
Holding Company Structure
Own shares in other companies, intellectual property, and hold real estate in designated areas of the UAE.
Simplified Administration
Enjoy minimal reporting requirements and no mandatory annual audits for most offshore companies.
Access to UAE Banking
An offshore company is eligible to open a multi-currency corporate bank account in the UAE.
RAK ICC vs. JAFZA Offshore
| Feature | RAK ICC | JAFZA Offshore |
|---|---|---|
| Reputation | Globally recognized, highly reputable, and cost-effective. | Well-established, associated with the prestige of JAFZA and Dubai. |
| Cost | More affordable setup and renewal fees. | Premium pricing, higher setup and renewal costs. |
| Real Estate Ownership | Can own property in designated freehold areas in Dubai and RAK. | Can own property in DP World designated freehold areas in Dubai. |
| Bank Account Opening | Widely accepted by most UAE banks. | Widely accepted, particularly by major Dubai-based banks. |
| Ideal For | Asset holding, international consulting, and most trading activities. | Holding companies for JAFZA-based operations and businesses requiring a Dubai address. |
Our Offshore Formation Process
Consultation & Jurisdiction Choice
We consult with you to understand your objectives and recommend the best offshore jurisdiction—RAK ICC or JAFZA.
KYC & Document Submission
We collect the required Know Your Customer (KYC) documents, such as passport copies and proof of address, for all shareholders.
Application & Registration
As your registered agent, we handle the entire application and submission process directly with the offshore authority.
Company Issuance
Once approved, the authority issues your certificate of incorporation and other corporate documents, which we deliver to you anywhere in the world.
Client Feedback
I needed an offshore company for asset holding, and their team was brilliant. They explained the benefits of RAK ICC clearly and handled the entire registration remotely. A highly professional and discreet service.
Jonathan Carter, International Investor
Offshore Company FAQs
Can I get a UAE residence visa with an offshore company?
No. An offshore company is a non-resident entity and is not eligible to sponsor any type of visa, including investor or employee visas. For residency, you need a <Link href='/uae-free-zones'>free zone</Link> or <Link href='/uae-mainland-company-setup'>mainland</Link> company.
Can an offshore company rent an office in the UAE?
No, an offshore company cannot rent a physical office or have a physical presence in the UAE. It only has a registered agent address, which we provide as part of our service.
Is an offshore company legal?
Yes, absolutely. A UAE offshore company is a 100% legal and government-recognized corporate structure designed specifically for international business activities.
What is a "registered agent"?
A registered agent is a licensed firm (like ours) that is authorized by the offshore authority to act as the official intermediary for the company. It is mandatory to have a registered agent for the lifetime of the offshore company.
Structure Your International Business
Leverage the power of a UAE offshore company for asset protection and tax efficiency. Contact our experts for a confidential consultation.
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