Accounting & Bookkeeping in JAFZA Offshore for American nationals
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

As an American national looking to establish an Accounting & Bookkeeping business in JAFZA Offshore, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United States has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of American professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As an offshore entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Accounting & Bookkeeping business will benefit from zero tax on all income and full capital repatriation. The JAFZA Offshore licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 18,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your accounting & bookkeeping setup in JAFZA Offshore. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why JAFZA Offshore for Accounting & Bookkeeping?

There are several compelling reasons why JAFZA Offshore continues to attract accounting & bookkeeping entrepreneurs from around the world.

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.

For American nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

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

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your accounting & bookkeeping licence is issued by JAFZA Offshore, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your accounting & bookkeeping business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for accounting & bookkeeping), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to JAFZA Offshore.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Detailed business plan or activity description
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your accounting & bookkeeping business plan and the best JAFZA Offshore licence options for American nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the accounting & bookkeeping licence application to JAFZA Offshore. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official JAFZA Offshore trade licence within 5–8 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

7

Start Operations

Your accounting & bookkeeping business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. JAFZA Offshore allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

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

SPEAK TO AN ADVISORWHATSAPP US

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.