Dubai Offshore Company Formation – Offshore Company Setup in the Emirate of Dubai

The Emirate of Dubai is the UAE’s second largest emirate and has a high reputation both within the UAE and in the world at large. The formation of offshore companies became possible in 2003 after special Regulations (Jebel Ali Free Zone Offshore Companies Regulations, 2003) were adopted.

Offshore companies registered in Dubai (JAFZA) are completely exempt from taxation in the UAE and can conduct any business that is not subject to special regulation. But the activities of the company must be conducted exclusively outside the UAE.

Key Specifics

• offshore company is completely tax exempt;
• Dubai offshore company can own real estate in this Emirate;
• offshore company must have a local registered agent whose registered office will be the registered office of the company;
• offshore company may have a nominee director, but no nominee shareholders;
• Dubai-registered offshore company must keep accounting records and prepare audited financial statements;
• offshore company can have par value or no par value shares, and can issue different classes of shares.

Registration Procedure

1. Choose a company name to be checked for availability (at least 2 names)
2. Define a company structure (director, shareholders, and manager)
3. Define the company’s activities
4. Provide documents for directors / shareholders / attorneys (either originals or notarized copies)
5. Pay all the necessary fees
6. Sign the corporate documents
7. Get the originals and the company seal

Registration Period

2 weeks