Do you live in Europe but want to set up an offshore company registered in the United Arab Emirates without having to make numerous trips to Dubai?
A large part of the application process can be completed remotely. However, certain procedures - particularly opening a bank account - require you to be present in person.
Create your offshore company without traveling: what are the steps?
Complete the application online
The first step is to complete an online form with information about the company, the partners, and the contacts to notify for follow-up on the application.
A quick review of the application
Validation takes place within 4 hours of submission when it is made from Sunday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., French time.
Remote setup
The application file can be prepared without coming to the United Arab Emirates, provided that all the requested supporting documents are submitted.
Documents required for registration
Passport
A copy of your passport is required, as well as copies of those of your associates, if you have any.
Proof of address
Prepare the original of a proof of address dated within the last 3 months: a water, gas, or electricity bill, or a certificate from a town hall, consulate, or embassy.
Bank reference letter
A bank reference letter dated less than 3 months ago is also required. It is not needed immediately when preparing the application, but will be requested when filing with the registry.
And for opening my bank account?
The company incorporation can be prepared remotely, but one step requires travel: opening the bank account in Dubai.
However, the appointment can be arranged in advance to plan the trip and combine the procedures on site.
Documents prepared for the bank appointment
Original registration documents
Prepare the company's original registration documents for the bank appointment.
Company stamp
The presentation of the company stamp must also be arranged when opening the account.
Original passport
The passport must be presented in its original form, not as a mere copy.
Personal bank statements
Each partner must provide their personal bank statements. Depending on the bank chosen, you should plan to provide between 3 and 6 months of statements.
Our advice for successfully setting up your company remotely
Have a single point of contact
It is recommended to use a firm responsible for preparing and monitoring the file in order to centralize the procedures.
Prepare all the documents in advance
Both the originals and the copies must be prepared in advance. A missing document may delay the incorporation of the company.
Prepare for the bank appointment
Since opening the account is the step that requires travel, it is recommended to schedule the bank appointment well in advance.
Internet therefore makes it much easier to set up an offshore company in the United Arab Emirates: most of the application can be prepared remotely, with just one trip to Dubai required to open the bank account.