Ajman Offshore Company Formation

What Is Ajman Offshore Company Formation?

Ajman offshore companies are International Business Companies (IBCs) registered under the Ajman Free Zone Authority (AFZA). Introduced in 2014, they provide a confidential and flexible structure for asset protection, estate planning, international trading, and global tax planning. With zero corporate tax, no VAT, and no office or visa requirements, they remain one of the UAE’s most cost-efficient platforms. Requiring only one director and shareholder (same person allowed), Ajman offshore entities are lean, simple to manage, and ideal for global investors seeking anonymity with compliance.

Benefits of Ajman Offshore Company Formation

Zero Taxation & Cost Efficiency

Offshore entities in Ajman enjoy complete exemption from corporate tax, VAT, and annual audits. There are no minimum capital requirements, and annual renewal fees are predictable, making it one of the most affordable structures for long-term global planning.

100% Foreign Ownership & Profit Repatriation

Investors retain full control with no local partner requirement. All profits can be freely repatriated, while parent companies and corporate shareholders are allowed, enabling flexible holding and layered structures across jurisdictions.

Confidentiality & Asset Security

AFZA maintains shareholder and director confidentiality, protecting personal information. Ajman offshore companies are frequently used to secure high-value assets such as real estate, yachts, IP rights, and investment portfolios from local liabilities.

Banking & Global Access

Offshore companies can open multi-currency accounts in the UAE or abroad, facilitating international transactions and trade. Banking compliance and KYC processes are managed effectively, reducing delays.

No Office or Visa Requirements

Ajman offshore entities cannot lease office space or sponsor residence visas. This lean structure ensures lower costs while enabling remote management from anywhere in the world.

Strategic Location

Situated near Ajman Port and connected to international trade routes, the jurisdiction gives investors a reliable base in the UAE without onshore obligations.

Permitted Business Activities

Legal Entities Allowed

International Business Company (IBC)

The only legal entity type available in Ajman offshore. It operates as a limited liability structure with a separate legal personality, ensuring protection for shareholders.

Shareholder & Director Requirements

Minimum one shareholder and one director are mandatory, and the same individual can act as both. Corporate shareholders are permitted, allowing for multi-layered holding companies.

Registered Agent Address

The company must appoint a registered agent and use their office as its legal address. No independent physical office is permitted, which streamlines compliance and lowers costs.

Licenses Available

General Trading License

Allows international trading activities, export-import transactions, and brokerage services outside the UAE mainland.

Holding License

Suitable for investors looking to hold shares in UAE mainland LLCs, foreign companies, or manage investment portfolios.

Consultancy License

Enables international consultancy, advisory, and professional services such as management or corporate structuring.

Intellectual Property Holding License

Designed for companies managing copyrights, trademarks, patents, or royalty income globally.

Property Holding License

Allows offshore companies to own up to three freehold properties in Ajman and act as a holding vehicle for assets.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Initial Consultation & Name Reservation

Choose a registered agent, define the company’s objectives, and propose up to three names for reservation. AFZA will confirm the approved name.

2. Documentation & Preparation

Gather required documents, including passports, proof of address, CVs, and bank references. The Memorandum & Articles of Association are drafted for signatures.

3. Company Registration

AFZA processes the incorporation after submission of documents and fees, usually within 1–2 working days. Share certificates and incorporation documents are then issued.

4. Bank Account Opening

With incorporation complete, begin the corporate bank account process. Depending on due diligence, approvals may take 5–15 days.

5. Post-Incorporation Compliance

Renew annually, maintain financial records, and submit Economic Substance Regulation (ESR) notifications if required. Offshore entities cannot hold UAE visas.

Documents Required

Passport Copies
Valid copies for all shareholders and directors; notarized if signed abroad.
Proof of Address
Recent utility bill or bank statement (within 90 days) showing residential address of shareholders.
Bank Reference Letter
Issued by a personal bank confirming account standing or recent statements as proof of financial integrity.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Professional background of shareholders, helping banks and AFZA assess credibility.

Corporate Shareholder Documents
For corporate investors: certificate of incorporation, MoA, AoA, board resolution, incumbency and good standing certificate, all duly attested.
Application Forms & MoA/AoA
Completed forms, Memorandum & Articles of Association prepared and submitted by the registered agent.
Additional Compliance Documents
ESR notifications, FATCA forms, and declarations if applicable, depending on shareholder nationality and banking requirements.

How DSA Helps

Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA) simplifies every step of your UAE business formation journey — from initial planning to long-term operational support. We’re not just consultants; we’re your on-ground execution partners with deep expertise in UAE legal, regulatory, and commercial frameworks.

Business Planning & Jurisdiction Comparison

Trade Name Reservation & Licensing Approvals

Legal Documentation, Drafting & Translation

Workspace & Ejari Tenancy Solutions

Bank Account Opening & Financial Setup

Visa & Immigration Processing

PRO & Legal Documentation Services

Post-Incorporation Support & Growth Enablement

Why Choose Us?

At Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA), we go beyond basic company registration. We provide strategic guidance, legal clarity, and operational support tailored for global entrepreneurs and investors entering the UAE market. Here’s why clients from over 30 countries trust us to build their presence in the Emirates:

Extensive Experience

End-to-End Service

Transparent Pricing

Global Perspective

Personalized Approach

Comprehensive Network

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but banks follow strict due diligence. UAE and international accounts can be opened with proper documentation, business plans, and KYC interviews.

Yes, but only up to three freehold properties in Ajman. For Dubai property ownership, other structures such as JAFZA offshore are required.

Yes, but only for international markets. Offshore companies cannot sell directly to UAE residents or operate locally.

Typically 1–3 working days for incorporation. Banking may take an additional 1–2 weeks depending on the bank’s due diligence.

Government renewal fees average AED 4,999, plus registered agent service fees. No audits or tax filings are required, keeping costs low.

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed with no local partner requirement, and all profits can be freely repatriated abroad.

No, Ajman offshore companies cannot sponsor UAE residence visas. If a visa is needed, a free zone entity is recommended.

Onshore UAE trading, banking, insurance, aviation, and media activities are prohibited for Ajman offshore companies.

Yes, companies can act as shareholders or directors, allowing flexible holding and multi-jurisdictional structures.

No, Ajman offshore companies do not require paid-up capital, making them easy and affordable to establish.

Ajman Offshore Company Formation