Determine Your Business Objective

• Your main activity (e.g., international trading, holding company, consultancy).
• The purpose of the offshore structure (tax planning, asset holding, property ownership, etc.).
• Whether the shareholder(s) will be individuals or corporate entities.

This helps choose the right offshore jurisdiction:

• RAK ICC – Cost-effective, flexible
• JAFZA Offshore – Allows real estate ownership in Dubai
• Ajman Offshore – Budget-friendly and quick setup

Choose an Approved Registered Agent

You must appoint a licensed Registered Agent (you cannot register directly with the authority).

The agent will:

• Handle all documentation
• Submit your application
• Provide the company’s registered address (mandatory)
• Guide you through compliance

Select Your Company Name

Your agent will help you:

• Propose 3–5 name options
• Check availability with the offshore authority
• Ensure it complies with naming rules (e.g., must end with “Limited” and avoid restricted terms like "bank" or "Emirates")

Prepare Required Documents

The agent will collect and process the necessary documents based on the shareholder type:

• Individual Shareholders
• Corporate Shareholders

Note: Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English or Arabic.

Submit the Application to Offshore Authority

Your agent will compile and submit your application along with all documents to the respective offshore authority:

• RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah)
• JAFZA Offshore (Dubai)
• Ajman Offshore (Ajman)

The authority will review and verify all details.

Pay Fees

Once approved, you must pay:

• Government incorporation fees
• Registered agent fees
• Annual maintenance fees (renewable every year)

Costs vary by jurisdiction — your agent will provide an all-inclusive quote.

Company Incorporation & Issuance of Documents

If approved, the offshore authority will issue:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Memorandum & Articles of Association
• Share certificates
• Company registry number and legal status

Your company is now officially registered and ready to operate internationally.

Open a Corporate Bank Account (Optional)

Your agent will assist with:

• Preparing the bank account application
• Submitting documents to your chosen UAE or international bank
• Booking an in-person meeting if required

✅ Offshore companies can open bank accounts, but approval is subject to KYC, business model, and risk review by the bank.

Maintain Annual Compliance

Even though offshore companies have minimal ongoing obligations, you still must:

• Renew the company license every year
• Maintain a registered agent and registered office
• Keep internal records of ownership and resolutions
• Conduct audits if required by specific authorities or bank requests

Audits and accounting are not mandatory unless specified for certain activities.