OFFSHORECOMPANY
A UAE offshore company is a legal entity registered with an offshore registry in the UAE that does not trade inside the UAE. It is typically used to hold assets and shares, own property in permitted areas, or run international business that does not need a local presence.
Draft text — under review by Milton Bridge
Milton Bridge helps you decide whether offshore is really the right tool for your goal — frankly, sometimes it isn't — and then handles the registration, documents and banking support.
What a UAE offshore company is used for
Offshore companies are usually set up as holding or international business vehicles. They are not meant for trading with customers in the UAE or for a physical office there.
- Holding shares in other companies.
- Holding intellectual property or investments.
- Owning real estate in areas where offshore ownership is permitted.
- International trade and services outside the UAE.
- Asset protection and succession planning, depending on the structure.
Offshore vs free zone vs mainland
An offshore company does not have a trade licence to operate in the UAE and generally cannot sponsor residence visas. If you need to trade locally, hire staff in the UAE or get a visa through your company, a free zone or mainland company is usually the better fit.
Many clients combine structures: an offshore or free zone holding company above an operating company. We explain the trade-offs for your case.
Substance, tax and compliance
International rules on transparency, economic substance and beneficial ownership apply to offshore structures. Depending on its activities, an offshore company may have reporting duties and may fall under UAE corporate tax rules.
We do not sell offshore as a way to hide anything. We help you build a lawful, transparent structure that banks and authorities can understand.
Banking for offshore companies
Opening a bank account for an offshore company is possible but usually takes more preparation than for an operating company. Banks will want to understand the purpose of the company, the source of funds and the people behind it. We help you prepare a clear file before you apply.
How it works with Milton Bridge
- 1
Purpose check
We discuss what you want the company to do and confirm whether offshore, free zone or mainland fits best.
- 2
Structure and documents
We propose the structure, prepare the incorporation documents and collect the due diligence documents the registry requires.
- 3
Registration
We file with the offshore registry and follow the application through to incorporation.
- 4
Bank account and compliance
We help you prepare for the bank account application and set up the reporting and accounting the company needs.
Offshore Company: frequently asked questions
What is an offshore company in the UAE?
A UAE offshore company is an entity registered with an offshore registry that does not trade inside the UAE. It is typically used for holding assets and shares or for international business. It does not have a licence to operate locally.
Can an offshore company trade in the UAE?
No, an offshore company generally cannot trade with customers inside the UAE or operate a local office. For local business you need a mainland or free zone company. We help you choose the right one.
Can I get a residence visa with an offshore company?
In most cases, no — offshore companies generally cannot sponsor UAE residence visas. If you need a visa, a free zone or mainland company is usually required. Many clients combine an offshore holding with an operating company.
Can an offshore company own property in Dubai?
Yes, in certain cases an offshore company can own property in areas where this is permitted. The rules depend on the registry and the property location. We check this before you set up the company.
Does a UAE offshore company pay tax?
It depends on its activities and income. UAE corporate tax, introduced in 2023, can apply to companies depending on their circumstances, and other countries may tax the company or its owners. We recommend reviewing your structure with a tax adviser, and we help coordinate this.
Is it hard to open a bank account for an offshore company?
It is possible, but it usually requires more preparation than for an operating company. Banks will ask about the purpose of the company, source of funds and beneficial owners. We help you build a clear application.
How much does an offshore company cost?
The cost depends on the registry, the structure and the services you need. Use the cost calculator for an estimate or book a free expert consultation.
