Overview of Offshore Business Setup in Dubai

Benefits of Offshore Company Formation in Dubai
Offshore companies offer huge tax saving benefits for their owners, along with increased protection of their business information and assets. Dubai is a popular destination for offshore business setup, with legislation supporting business growth.

100% Foreign Ownership

No Corporate or Income Tax

Asset Protection & Confidentiality
A major benefit of offshore company formation in Dubai is enhanced protection of business assets. Company owners and shareholders can safeguard their assets from liability and protect their wealth.

Easy Global Trade & Investments

No Office Requirement in UAE

Cost-effective Business Management

Features of Offshore Business Setup

Incorporation in 2–5 Business Days

International Banking Capabilities

Multiple Currency Transactions Allowed

No Requirement for Local Office

Complete Confidentiality for Shareholders & Directors

Simple Annual Compliance
Cost of Setting Up an Offshore Company in Dubai
Momentum offers packages designed for offshore company setup in Dubai that help with license application, getting a certificate of incorporation, drafting an MoA, nominee services, opening a bank account, and assigning you a registered agent. We also offer accounting services to keep your business financially organized.
Influencing Factors
- - Offshore jurisdiction (JAFZA, RAK ICC, Ajman Offshore)
- - Number of shareholders and directors
- - Additional services (banking, nominee services)
Breakdown
- - Registration Fees: AED 6,000 – AED 12,000
- - Registered Agent Fees: AED 3,000 – AED 5,000
- - Bank Account Setup: AED 2,000+ (optional/add-on)
Estimated Range:
*Get in touch for a customized quote that’s based on your needs
Types of Offshore Licenses

Holding Company
For acquisition & management of assets

Investment Company
For investment into businesses

International Trading
For trading with foreign markets

Property Holding
For acquisition & control of real estate properties

Intellectual Property Ownership
For acquisition and control of intellectual property

Shipping & Maritime Services
For activities related to shipping & maritime industry
Legal Structures for Offshore Companies
You can form an offshore company in Dubai with a minimum of one shareholder. If it is a corporate shareholder, all their documents must be attested.
There are no limits on the number of shareholders for an offshore company formation in Dubai. You will need at least one director and one secretary for the business, although these requirements may change based on the location of the business.
The UAE allows corporations to become shareholders in offshore companies. However, corporations are not allowed to be company directors in certain offshore locations (JAFZA). A business setup expert can help you navigate the rules.
Key Documents for Offshore Company Formation
For Individuals
- Passport copy
- Proof of address
- Bank reference letter/CV (if required)
- KYC Form
For Corporations
- Parent Company Documents (License, MoA)
- Board Resolution & PoA
- Passport Copies of Shareholders/Directors
Steps to Set Up an Offshore Company in Dubai
Choose Offshore Jurisdiction & Business Structure
Reserve Company Name
Prepare & Submit Required Documents
Register with Offshore Authority
Receive Certificate of Incorporation
Open Offshore Bank Account
Why Choose Us for Offshore Company Setup in Dubai
Business setup as an offshore company can get complicated. Our consultants are highly familiar with the UAE’s offshore regulations and offer a hassle-free and efficient set up process experience. Momentum also keeps your information completely confidential and encrypted, maintaining your privacy.

Authorized Offshore Registered Agent

End-to-End Company Formation Support

Global Banking Assistance

Confidential & Secure Process
FAQ
What is an Offshore Company in Dubai?
What is the Difference Between a Free Zone and an Offshore Company in Dubai?
Free zone companies can only trade within their free zone and internationally, while offshore companies must keep their operations completely outside the UAE. Offshore companies also do not require a physical office space.
How Many Offshores are there in UAE?
What Are the Benefits of an Offshore Company?
Offshore company formation in Dubai has a lot of advantages like no corporate tax, no physical location requirement, full repatriation of profits, and full confidentiality of shareholder information and business dealings.
Do Offshore Companies Pay Taxes in the UAE?
Offshore companies do not have to pay corporate or personal tax in the UAE as their business activities are exempted from taxation.
Can an Offshore Company Open a Bank Account in the UAE?
Offshore companies can open a bank account in the UAE but it can be complex. It is recommended to use a registered agent to guide you through the entire offshore business setup process.
How do I Setup an Offshore Account in Dubai?
Offshore company setup in Dubai takes the following steps: choose a jurisdiction, pick a business activity, apply for a license, register with the offshore authority, and open a bank account.
What is Offshore License in UAE?
An offshore license is a trade license issued by the relevant offshore authority that allows offshore companies to legally conduct their business activities.
Can Offshore Companies Own Properties in UAE?
Offshore companies are allowed to buy property in the UAE but they are restricted to certain designated zones. The rules for property purchase vary across Emirates, and are overseen by the Dubai Land Department.
How Much Does it Cost to Open an Offshore Company in Dubai?
It costs around AED 10,000 – AED 20,000 to open an offshore company in Dubai. Working with a business setup constant who specializes in offshore companies can simplify the process.
Do I Need a Local Sponsor for an Offshore Company?
Offshore company formation in Dubai or UAE does not require a local sponsor, meaning foreign individuals get 100% ownership of their business.
How Do I Open an Offshore Bank Account?
To open an offshore bank account, you have to work with a registered agent to contact banking institutions to check whether they are willing to provide their services to your business. Then you can apply for an account by submitting the necessary documents.