Accounting & Bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore
OffshoreProfessionalRegulated Activity

Accounting & Bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Accounting & Bookkeeping

Entrepreneurs seeking to start an Accounting & Bookkeeping business in the UAE will find JAFZA Offshore to be one of the most attractive jurisdictions, thanks to its strategic location and comprehensive support services.

Operating from JAFZA Offshore gives your Accounting & Bookkeeping business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Ministry of Economy before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up accounting & bookkeeping businesses in JAFZA Offshore since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why JAFZA Offshore for Accounting & Bookkeeping?

Choosing JAFZA Offshore for your accounting & bookkeeping business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers zero tax on all income, which is particularly valuable for accounting & bookkeeping operations. Additionally, full capital repatriation ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. The offshore structure provides maximum confidentiality and is ideal for holding assets, intellectual property, and international trade operations. Many international businesses choose the offshore route for its streamlined compliance requirements and ability to open multi-currency bank accounts with leading UAE banks. Corporate bank account access further enhances the appeal of JAFZA Offshore for accounting & bookkeeping professionals. Furthermore, no physical office required positions your accounting & bookkeeping business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, JAFZA Offshore remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Zero tax on all income
Full capital repatriation
Corporate bank account access
No physical office required
Asset protection

Requirements & Documents

1Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
2Detailed business plan or activity description
3Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
5Completed application form for trade licence
6Passport-sized photographs with white background
7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Ministry of Economy
8Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

Regulatory Note: Accounting & Bookkeeping is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Ministry of Economy is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 18,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your accounting & bookkeeping business objectives, optimal licence structure, and JAFZA Offshore as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For accounting & bookkeeping, additional documents including professional qualifications and Ministry of Economy approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Following DED approval, your Dubai mainland trade licence is issued within 5 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct accounting & bookkeeping activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 18,000.

5

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. Account opening for offshore entities may require additional due diligence documentation.

6

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your accounting & bookkeeping business in JAFZA Offshore is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Offshore entities are generally exempt from UAE corporate tax on income earned outside the UAE. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for accounting & bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your accounting & bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionJAFZA Offshore
Typeoffshore
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 18,000
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code69200

Official Source

www.jafza.ae

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Accounting & Bookkeeping?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your accounting & bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.