What we set up for you
From a single offshore holding company to a multi-tier international structure with trust overlay — we handle incorporation, banking, compliance, and annual renewals.
- RAK ICC — International Business Company (IBC)
- RAK Offshore (RAKIA) — holding & investment
- Ajman Offshore — cost-effective holding & IP
- Dubai Offshore (JAFZA) — real estate & prestige holding
- UAQ Free Trade Zone — offshore registration
- UAE Freezone Holding Company (DMCC, Meydan, etc.)
- DIFC Trust — asset protection & succession
- DIFC Foundation — non-profit & family purposes
- Offshore bank account opening
- Nominee director & shareholder services
- Registered agent & registered office
- Annual renewal & compliance management
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UAE offshore company and what can it do?
A UAE offshore company is a legal entity registered in one of the UAE's offshore jurisdictions — Ajman, JAFZA (Dubai), UAQ, RAK Offshore, or RAK ICC. It cannot trade within the UAE domestic market, but can hold shares in other companies, own real estate (in certain jurisdictions), hold bank accounts, own intellectual property, and enter into contracts globally. Shareholder identities are kept private by law.
What is the difference between RAK Offshore and RAK ICC?
RAK Offshore (RAKIA) is the established registry for traditional holding companies and has been operating since 2006. RAK ICC (International Corporate Centre) was established in 2018 as a modernised registry aligned with BVI and Cayman Island standards, offering IBC structures, enhanced privacy, broader permitted activities, and improved international recognition for banking and investment purposes.
Can a UAE offshore company own real estate?
Yes — with the right jurisdiction. JAFZA Offshore (Dubai) is specifically designed to allow ownership of UAE freehold property in designated areas. RAK Offshore can hold shares in a company that owns real estate. Ajman and UAQ offshore entities can also be structured to own property through intermediate holding layers. We advise the most efficient route based on your specific property and objectives.
What is a DIFC Trust and who needs one?
A DIFC Trust is established under DIFC Trust Law (DIFC Law No. 4 of 2018), governed by English Common Law principles. It is ideal for HNWIs from civil law countries where forced heirship rules apply — such as many European, Middle Eastern, and Asian jurisdictions. By placing assets in a DIFC Trust, the settlor legally transfers ownership to a licensed trustee, removing the assets from their estate and protecting them from forced heirship claims, creditors, and divorce proceedings.
Is a UAE holding structure legal and tax-compliant?
Yes. UAE offshore and holding structures are fully legal under UAE law and, when properly set up, compliant with international standards including FATF, OECD BEPS, CRS, and FATCA. All UAE offshore registries require economic substance declarations where applicable. We work with licensed legal advisors to ensure your structure is robust, compliant, and defensible in any jurisdiction.
How long does it take to set up an offshore company?
Most UAE offshore incorporations complete in 3–5 business days from the point of receiving your documents. RAK ICC and Ajman are typically the fastest. JAFZA Offshore (Dubai) takes 5–10 days. DIFC Trusts require more preparation — typically 4–8 weeks including legal documentation, trustee appointment, and asset transfer planning.