Explore our complete UAE offshore and holding guide: features, perks, and more.
What is an Offshore Company?
Offshore companies suit asset protection, holding structures, and international ops outside the UAE, without visas, offices, or local staff. They hold shares, IP, or investments, offer privacy and low costs, and oversee Free Zone or Mainland subsidiaries—ideal for global entrepreneurs avoiding UAE trading.
Offshore Setups Are Best For:
Asset holding and protection
International trading conducted outside the UAE
Intellectual property ownership
Shareholding in UAE or overseas companies
Key Features of Offshore Setups:
Ideal for corporate structuring and asset management
No physical office required
No UAE visa eligibility
Cannot operate in UAE local market
What is a Holding Company?
Holding companies own assets, investments, and subsidiaries without operations, in Mainland, Free Zones, or Offshore setups. They centralize ownership, limit liability, and simplify governance for investors, family groups, or corporations managing real estate, IP, shares, and expansions.
Holding Setups Are Best For:
Investors managing multiple companies
Family wealth planning and succession structures
Corporate groups consolidating assets or IP
Businesses requiring liability separation
Key Features of Holding Setups:
Owns UAE or international companies
Designed for ownership rather than operations
No activity unless separately licensed
Flexible across Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore jurisdictions
