Business Setup Services
Jebel Ali Offshore Company Formation
The Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) is one of the oldest and most reputable free zones in Dubai. Setting up an offshore company here allows you to conduct international business and also own property in Dubai. Corporate shareholders are permitted. If an office space is leased within JAFZA, the company becomes eligible to apply for one residence visa for its authorized personnel. Similar to other UAE entities, a JAFZA offshore company can open and operate a corporate bank account in Dubai. This type of setup offers 100% repatriation of profits and capital, with no restrictions on foreign exchange or financial movement inside or outside the UAE.
Approved and Allowed Activities
Unlike onshore companies registered in the UAE (whether in JAFZA, mainland, or other free zones), a JAFZA offshore company does not receive a business operating license upon incorporation. Instead, it is issued only a Certificate of Incorporation along with its Memorandum and Articles of Association. Because no operational license is granted, the offshore company cannot conduct business activities within the UAE or deal directly with UAE-based customers. However, the company can freely carry out business activities outside the UAE, as those operations fall outside the scope of UAE commercial regulations.
Although a JAFZA offshore company is not allowed to conduct business activities within the UAE, it may be allowed to own freehold property in certain designated areas of Dubai. This is subject to the approval of the JAFZA Authority and in line with the current policies of the Dubai Land Department. In these approved zones, the offshore entity can legally hold property ownership even though it cannot operate commercially inside the UAE.
A JAFZA offshore company can also function as a holding entity, allowing it to own shares in mainland UAE companies and other free zone companies. Additionally, depending on the policies of the chosen bank, it may open bank accounts, pledge its shares, and obtain loans or other financial facilities as needed.
