What is a Dubai Mainland Company?

A Dubai Mainland Company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allowing it to operate freely across the UAE and internationally, with no trade restrictions within the local market.

What are the Types of Business Licenses Available in Dubai Mainland?

The key license types include commercial, industrial, and professional licenses. Each license caters to specific business activities, such as trading, manufacturing, or service-based businesses.

How Do I Choose the Right Legal Structure for My Mainland Company?

The choice depends on factors like the nature of your business, the number of shareholders, and ownership preferences. Options include LLCs, sole proprietorships, and branch offices. Consulting experts ensures the right selection.

Is It Mandatory to Have Office Space to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Yes, physical office space is mandatory for mainland company registration. The size and location requirements vary based on your business activity and operational needs.

Can Foreign Nationals Fully Own a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Yes, foreign nationals can fully own businesses in most sectors, thanks to recent reforms. However, certain activities may still require a local sponsor or partner.

What are the Documents Required to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Essential documents include passport copies of shareholders and managers, proof of address, business activity details, and lease agreements for office space. Additional documents may be required for specific activities.

How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

The cost typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 30,000, depending on factors like license type, office space, and additional approvals. Contact experts for an accurate estimate.

What Is the Process of Getting a Business License in Dubai Mainland?

The process involves selecting a business activity, registering your trade name, obtaining initial approval, finalizing office space, and applying for a business license through DED.

How Many Visas Can I Apply for a Company in Dubai Mainland?

The number of visas depends on your office space size and the business activity. Generally, every 80-100 sq. ft. of office space allows for one visa.

What are the Ongoing Compliance Requirements for a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Compliance includes renewing trade licenses annually, maintaining financial records, and adhering to UAE’s VAT regulations, if applicable. Regular audits may also be required depending on your business structure.

Offshore Company Formation In Dubai: Setup Your UAE Business

Benefits of Setting up an Offshore Company in Dubai

Setting up an offshore company in Dubai comes with multiple advantages. Here are the key benefits of opening an offshore company in UAE:

Tax Benefits

Benefits from favourable tax policies to boost your financial prospects.

Low-Cost Company Setup

Reduce your expenses with a cost-effective business setup.

Complete Confidentiality and Anonymity

Ensure your privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.

Asset Protection

Offshore company formation in Dubai provides enhanced asset protection through robust legal frameworks, safeguarding assets from potential liabilities and disputes.

Global Expansion

Positioned strategically between East and West, Dubai serves as a gateway to international markets, enabling businesses to expand their global reach and access new opportunities.

Process of Opening an Offshore Company in Dubai

DISCOVER THE PINNACLE OF GLOBAL BUSINESS EFFICIENCY WITH OFFSHORE COMPANY FORMATION IN UAE.

Selecting a Suitable Location

The best options for offshore business are Ras Al Khaimah and Jebel Ali Free Zone. They don't charge taxes and you can own 100% of your company.

Choose a Company Structure

It is important to choose a structure as it affects how you manage your company and deal with paperwork processing.

Submit the Required Documents

Include a copy of your passport, bank reference, utility bill for your address, your CV and three possible names for your company.

Register Your Company

Registering an offshore company usually takes about 4 to 5 working days. Then you can get your offshore business license from your selected location.

Open a Bank Account For Your Offshore Company

This helps you manage your company's finances and conduct business transactions easily in Dubai. We can help you look for a bank that offers affordability, speed and high-tech security.

Documents Required for Offshore Company Formation in UAE

The documents required to start an offshore company in the UAE by individual and corporate shareholders are:

For Individual Shareholders:

Shareholder’s passport copy.
Proof of your address (Any utility bill).
Bank reference letter.
Resume of shareholder.
Business name and activities.
Details of the ultimate beneficiaries.

For Corporate Entity Shareholders:

Attested copy of your company’s trade license or incorporation certificate.
Original attested shareholder’s resolution.
The Memorandum of Association (MOA) of your parent company.
Passport copies for the directors, shareholders and secretary of your UAE offshore company.
Incumbency certificate of parent company (which mention the name of shareholders and directors).

Key Locations for Setting up An Offshore Company in UAE

There are five offshore locations to setup an offshore company in UAE, these Freezones promise tax-free environments, meaning they don’t charge income tax or corporate tax and allow 100% foreign ownership, the top three preferred zones are Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Ajman Free Zone (AFZA) and Ras Al Khaimah (RAK).

Jebel Ali Offshore

Jebel Ali is one of the top spots for registering offshore companies in Dubai's free zones. It's a good choice because of its excellent facilities, central location between Dubai and Abu Dhabi and the impressive list of clients it attracts. JAFZA is also the only Offshore Company that is legally permitted to own property situated in Dubai.

Ras Al Khaimah Offshore

RAK Offshore is a company based in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) that's not from the local area. It's perfect for businesses that want tax benefits, privacy and protection for their assets. RAK Offshore companies can do business worldwide and own assets without following strict local business rules.

Ajman Offshore

Offshore company formation in Ajman began in 2014 and it's controlled by the Ajman Free Zone Authority. Setting up an Ajman Offshore Company has quickly become a popular choice and the benefit of Ajman offshore zone is that the registration can be done in just 2 to 3 working days.

Frequently Asked Questions

An offshore company in the UAE is a legal entity established in a designated offshore jurisdiction within the UAE. These companies are popular among international businesses and investors who conduct business activities outside the UAE. The main benefit of setting up an offshore company in the UAE is the tax and legal advantages it offers. Offshore companies also do not require physical office space in the UAE and allow 100% ownership for foreign nationals.

Free Zone companies can operate within their designated zones and internationally but need a local agent to trade in the mainland. They allow 100% foreign ownership, require office space, and offer tax exemptions and duty benefits. Specific licenses, such as trading or service licenses, are necessary.

Offshore companies, however, focus on international business and cannot operate within the UAE market. They also allow full foreign ownership but do not require office space, making them more cost-effective. Offshore companies enjoy complete tax exemptions and have simpler licensing with fewer restrictions, which is ideal for global trade, asset holding, or tax optimisation.

Offshore companies focus on international business and cannot operate in the UAE market. They offer 100% foreign ownership, require no physical office, enjoy complete tax exemptions, and are governed by jurisdictions like JAFZA Offshore or RAK ICC, making them ideal for global trade and tax optimisation.

Onshore (mainland) companies, however, can operate both locally and internationally. They now allow 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, require a physical office, and are subject to a 9% corporate tax but no personal income tax. Regulated by the DED, onshore companies are suited for businesses targeting the UAE market, such as retail, trading, or services.

Ajman Free Zone is recognised for offering cost-effective offshore company formation packages. Businesses can be established with packages starting from AED 11,900, making it an attractive option for investors seeking affordable offshore setups.

When selecting a free zone, consider factors such as business activity, location, facilities, and long-term growth potential to ensure alignment with your business objectives. The UAE's most affordable free zones for business setup include SRTIP (from AED 5,500 for service licenses), Ajman Media City (cost-effective for various activities), SHAMS (budget-friendly for creative sectors), RAKEZ (from AED 11,440 with flexi-desk options), and IFZA Dubai (from AED 12,900). Choose based on your business activity, location, and growth plans.

The two main jurisdictions for offshore company formation in the UAE are:
Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) Offshore: Located in Dubai, JAFZA Offshore allows offshore companies to own property in Dubai, a unique feature among offshore jurisdictions. It’s best suited for businesses that want to own property in Dubai and use the infrastructure.
Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC): RAK ICC is a cost-effective and quick setup process that is perfect for international investors looking for flexibility and confidentiality. RAK ICC is best suited for businesses looking for a cost-effective setup with flexible rules.
Both have the same benefits: no corporate taxes, 100% foreign ownership and UAE bank accounts. The choice between them depends on your business requirements.
Consult a reliable and trusted consultant like Vista Global Business Set Up and get a free consultation from the best company formation experts in the UAE to decide which jurisdictions best suit your business goals.

When choosing a jurisdiction for an offshore company in Dubai, UAE, several key factors should be considered:
Tax Advantages

A tax-neutral environment with exemptions on corporate income, personal income, capital gains, and inheritance taxes

Legal & Ownership

Each jurisdiction has its own regulations
100% foreign ownership
No local partner or sponsor is required

Business Capabilities

Multi-currency bank accounts
Some jurisdictions allow local real estate ownership
Potential business activity restrictions

Strategic Considerations

Not eligible to apply for shareholder or employee visas
Some jurisdictions do not require public disclosure of shareholder and director details
Streamlined setup processes
Compliance requirements like the Real Beneficiary Register (RBR) and Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Limitations of Offshore Companies

Offshore companies cannot conduct business directly within the UAE market

Offshore Company Formation in Dubai