Where are Jebel Ali offshore companies registered?
Jebel Ali offshore companies are registered under the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA), located in the Emirate of Dubai, UAE. JAFZA is the oldest and one of the most respected free zones in the country, offering a reliable and well-established legal framework for offshore and free zone companies.
Just like other offshore jurisdictions, JAFZA ensures full confidentiality for shareholders and company officers.
Jebel Ali offshore companies are especially ideal for holding property in Dubai, as well as for purposes like asset protection, consultancy, international trading, tax planning, and estate planning.
Setting up is straightforward. You only need one shareholder, two directors, and one secretary. The shareholder can also act as the secretary and one of the directors.
Key Features of Jebel Ali Offshore Companies
| Feature |
|---|
| UAE’s oldest and most trusted offshore jurisdiction |
| No corporate or personal tax |
| 100% foreign ownership allowed |
| Can hold shares in UAE mainland or free zone companies |
| No minimum capital required |
| No audit or accounting obligations |
| Open to all nationalities |
| Can own real estate in Dubai |
| Eligible for bank accounts in UAE and globally |
| No restrictions on capital repatriation |
| Requires a registered office in Dubai |
Permitted vs Restricted Activities – Jebel Ali Offshore
| Permitted Activities | Restricted Activities |
|---|---|
| Acting as a holding company | Financial services |
| International trade | Insurance or reinsurance |
| Consultancy and advisory services | Media-related businesses |
| Brokerage | Aviation |
| Holding intellectual property rights | Doing business directly within the UAE market |
| Online marketing and advertising | Opening a physical branch in the UAE |
| Ship registration | |
| Investing in stock markets |