How to Set Up an Offshore Company in Dubai (UAE)
We support offshore incorporation through approved jurisdictions and registered agents, including KYC/AML due diligence, documentation preparation, and ongoing administrative compliance. Offshore entities are generally not permitted to trade within the UAE mainland market.
Who is it for / Suitable for
High-net-worth individuals and family offices for asset holding and structuring.
Groups establishing holding structures for shares, intellectual property, or investment portfolios.
Businesses requiring a ring-fenced entity for international dealings (subject to restrictions).
Investors requiring a compliant corporate vehicle for bank account opening (subject to bank onboarding).
Key Requirements
Incorporation through an approved offshore registry and licensed registered agent.
Shareholder and director appointments and execution of constitutional documents.
Completion of KYC/AML due diligence and beneficial ownership information.
General restriction: no trading within the UAE mainland market.
Bank account opening is subject to independent bank compliance and approval.
Clients need to provide the following information / documents
Document Name
Notarized
Passport copy (shareholders/directors)
KYC/AML identification.
Yes
Proof of residential address
Utility bill or bank statement (typically ≤ 3 months).
Yes
Professional/bank reference letter (where requested)
May be required for due diligence and banking.
No
Source of funds / wealth declaration
AML requirement; documentary support may be requested.
No
Corporate documents (if shareholder is a company)
Certificate, registers, and resolutions (as applicable).
Yes
Average Processing Time
Typically 7–14 business days, subject to due diligence clearance and registry processing timelines.
What you would get when the application is complete
Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum & Articles / constitutional documents
Register of Directors and Shareholders
Company number / registry reference
Registered agent confirmation / registered office details
On-going Compliance Requirements
After completion, businesses must maintain ongoing compliance:
Annual registered agent and registered office renewal.
Payment of annual government/registry fees in accordance with the jurisdiction.
Maintain internal accounting records and supporting documentation (not publicly filed).
Notify the registered agent of changes in ownership, management, or activity.
Comply with any reporting obligations applicable to the jurisdiction and activity.
Government Agencies Involved
Government agencies involved / overseeing this application:
Relevant Offshore Registry (e.g., JAFZA Offshore / RAK ICC)
Incorporation and registry oversight within the relevant jurisdiction.
Registered Agent (licensed)
Mandatory intermediary for incorporation and ongoing administration.
Thanks vOffice for your quick action on my EJARI request. Appreciate your professionalism
Jen Sun
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Adam
EngineerThanks for getting our Dubai company setup so quickly. Everything was perfect.
Mint
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Ryan Thompson
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Rachel Chen
Consult With Our Corporate Advisory Team
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