Offshore company formation in the UAE
A UAE offshore company is a low-maintenance structure for holding assets, owning shares and trading internationally. It is not a licence to trade inside the UAE — here is what it can and cannot do.
What an offshore company is good for
- Holding shares in other companies, investments and intellectual property
- International trading and consulting with clients outside the UAE
- Owning property in areas where offshore ownership is permitted
- Privacy and simple administration — no office or visas needed
What it cannot do
- Trade inside the UAE or with UAE mainland customers
- Sponsor residence visas or hire staff in the UAE
- Lease an office in the UAE
If you need any of these, a free zone or mainland company is the right structure — or combine both.
Jurisdictions
The main UAE offshore registries are RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) and JAFZA Offshore. They differ in cost, what assets they can hold and the documents they need. We recommend one after understanding your purpose.
How it works
- Consultation — we confirm offshore is the right structure for your goal.
- Registered agent — every offshore company is set up through an approved agent; Biznexa handles this.
- Name approval and documents — passports, proof of address and due-diligence forms.
- Incorporation — certificate, Memorandum and Articles issued.
- Bank account — offshore banking is stricter; we prepare the file and introduce you to suitable banks.
Frequently asked questions
Can an offshore company get a UAE residence visa?
No. Offshore companies cannot sponsor visas. For a visa you need a free zone or mainland company.
Can an offshore company open a UAE bank account?
Yes, with some banks, but due diligence is stricter. We prepare the file and introduce you to banks that accept offshore companies.
Do I need to visit the UAE?
Usually not — offshore companies can normally be set up remotely, although some banks ask for a visit when opening the account.
Which is better, RAK ICC or JAFZA Offshore?
It depends on what the company will hold and where. We compare both for your case in the free consultation.