Dubai Offshore Company Formation

What is JAFZA Offshore Company Formation?

A JAFZA Offshore Company is a non-resident legal entity registered under the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Offshore Companies Regulations 2003. It cannot trade within the UAE but serves international markets and asset holding purposes. Unlike free zone or mainland setups, it offers 100% foreign ownership, high confidentiality, and ease of global operations. The company receives a Certificate of Incorporation, not a trade license, and can open UAE bank accounts while enjoying asset protection benefits.

Benefits of Ajman Offshore Company Formation

100% Foreign Ownership

Investors enjoy complete control with no UAE sponsor or local partner required. The structure allows individuals and corporations to maintain clear authority while planning for restructuring, future expansion, or exit strategies without interference.

Tax Exemption & Profit Repatriation

JAFZA offshore entities pay no corporate tax, no personal income tax, and no capital gains tax. Profits and capital can be transferred abroad without restrictions making it ideal for investors seeking to optimize cross-border taxation while remaining fully compliant under UAE offshore laws.

Privacy & Confidentiality

Shareholder and director details are not made public, providing strong corporate privacy. The offshore registry only maintains information with the registered agent, ensuring discretion against unwanted exposure, external scrutiny, and commercial profiling.

Real Estate Ownership in Dubai

JAFZA offshore companies are permitted to own freehold property in select Dubai zones enabling foreign investors to purchase and hold real estate legally, ensuring security, succession planning, and asset protection. Property titles are registered under the company name.

No Physical Office Requirement

The registered agent’s office acts as the company’s legal address, cutting operating costs significantly. This makes it an efficient structure for investors, consultants, and global entrepreneurs who don’t require a UAE base.

Banking & Multi-Currency Accounts

JAFZA offshore companies can open UAE and international corporate bank accounts providing global transaction capabilities, multi-currency support, and secure online banking.

Global Investment & Holding Structure

These entities can hold shares in UAE or foreign companies, manage portfolios, and safeguard intellectual property. They serve as effective vehicles for investment, inheritance planning, and global business ownership.

Fast Incorporation

Company formation is efficient, often completed within 7–14 working days. Minimal documents are needed, and no embassy attestation is required. The process is streamlined through registered agents, allowing investors to start international operations quickly and without bureaucratic delays.

Permitted Business Activities

Legal Entities Allowed

International Business Company (IBC)

The standard structure under JAFZA Offshore Regulations. It allows asset holding, consultancy, e-commerce, and investment management but prohibits local UAE trade offering limited liability protection and global operational scope.

Individual Shareholder Ownership

One person can fully own a JAFZA IBC, acting as both shareholder and secretary. Two natural-person directors are mandatory, ensuring governance compliance. This suits private investors or entrepreneurs.

Corporate Shareholder Ownership

Foreign companies, free zone firms, or international businesses may own a JAFZA IBC. This is commonly used for multinationals, holding structures, and family offices to consolidate investments in a tax-efficient vehicle.

Director Requirements

At least two directors are required, and they must be natural persons. Their identities are filed with the agent but remain confidential from public records, providing accountability while protecting privacy.

Mandatory Secretary Appointment

Each offshore company must appoint a secretary, either an individual or corporate entity. Often, the registered agent provides this service, ensuring compliance, document filings, and smooth administration.

Flexible Share Capital

There is no minimum capital requirement. Companies may set share capital according to operational needs, making the structure accessible to all investor levels. Bearer shares are prohibited to comply with global AML standards.

Licenses Available

Certificate of Incorporation

JAFZA offshore companies do not receive trade licenses like mainland or free zone entities. Instead, they are issued a Certificate of Incorporation, which legally confirms the company’s registration. This certificate enables the entity to conduct international activities, open bank accounts, own property in approved zones, and manage investments globally. However, it does not allow local UAE trade or issuance of residence visas.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Select Company Name & Activities

Choose a compliant name ending with “Limited” and define intended business activities under offshore regulations.

2. Appoint Registered Agent

Work with a licensed registered agent to manage filings, compliance, and liaison with JAFZA.

3. Prepare & Legalize Documents

Submit notarized passport copies, proof of address, MOA/AOA, and business plan. Corporate shareholders must provide incorporation documents.

4. Submit Application & Pay Fees

Agent files the application with JAFZA, paying government and service fees. Approval usually takes 7–14 working days.

5. Receive Incorporation Documents

Once approved, you receive Certificate of Incorporation, MOA/AOA, and share certificates.

6. Open Bank Account

Use incorporation documents to open UAE or international multi-currency corporate accounts.

7. Annual Compliance & Renewal

Renew annually via your registered agent to maintain active status and banking legitimacy.

Documents Required

Passport Copies
Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (notarized).
Proof of Address
Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement within 90 days)
Bank Reference Letter
Bank reference letter or recent statement.

Resume or CV
Resume or CV for shareholders.
Business plan and JAFZA application form.
Signed Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA).

Why Choose DSA for JAFZA Offshore Formation?

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.

Pre-Incorporation Strategic Advisor

Complete Legal Drafting & Documentation

Licensed Registered Agent & JAFZA Liaison

Expert Bank Account Setup Support

Annual Compliance & Renewals Management

Optional Add-Ons: Accounting, Tax & PRO Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, UAE banks allow JAFZA offshore companies to open multi-currency corporate accounts. Proper KYC, business rationale, and shareholder verification are required for approval.

No, JAFZA offshore companies are non-resident entities and cannot issue visas. For residency or hiring staff, a Free Zone or Mainland company is required.

Incorporation usually takes 7–14 working days, depending on documentation and compliance checks. Using a licensed agent ensures faster, smoother approval.

They must be renewed yearly by paying fees and confirming shareholder details. No audits or VAT filings are required unless requested by banks.

Yes, but only with international clients outside the UAE. Selling to UAE residents or operating locally is not permitted.

Yes, JAFZA offshore companies are ideal as holding vehicles. They can issue shares, manage investor equity, and centralize ownership.

Yes, they cannot trade in the UAE, lease offices, or employ staff. Banking, insurance, and financial services also need special licensing

There is no minimum capital requirement. Investors can set any share capital, but bearer shares are strictly prohibited.

No, shareholder and director names are kept confidential and not listed publicly. Only the agent and authorities hold these records.