What documents does a German national need to start a general contracting business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Germany, attested documents via German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, and a business plan for your general contracting venture.

How long does it take for a German citizen to set up a general contracting company in JAFZA Offshore?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How much does it cost to set up a General Contracting business in JAFZA Offshore?

The total setup cost for a General Contracting business in JAFZA Offshore starts from approximately AED 18,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 0 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What documents do I need to set up a General Contracting business in JAFZA Offshore?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my JAFZA Offshore General Contracting licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from JAFZA Offshore, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Offshore companies can open corporate accounts, though the choice of banks may be more limited. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

How long does it take to get a General Contracting licence in JAFZA Offshore?

The typical processing time for a general contracting licence at JAFZA Offshore is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What are the tax implications for a General Contracting business in JAFZA Offshore?

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.

OffshoreConstructionRegulated Activity

General Contracting in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About General Contracting

As a German national looking to establish a General Contracting business in JAFZA Offshore, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Germany has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of German professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As an offshore entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your General Contracting 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 general contracting 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 General Contracting?

There are several compelling reasons why JAFZA Offshore continues to attract general contracting entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers zero tax on all income, which is particularly valuable for general contracting 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 general contracting professionals. Furthermore, no physical office required positions your general contracting 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 construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Zero tax on all income

Full capital repatriation

Corporate bank account access

No physical office required

Asset protection

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

For German entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your general contracting business in JAFZA Offshore.

Banking for German Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your general contracting company in JAFZA Offshore: German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand German business structures.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

Document attestation for German nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Germany, (2) Attestation by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to general contracting businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Regulatory Note: General Contracting is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your general contracting business plan and the best JAFZA Offshore licence options for German nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the general contracting licence application to JAFZA Offshore. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

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

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

Your general contracting 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 German nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

General Contracting in Other Jurisdictions

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RAKEZ

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DIFC

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Abu Dhabi DED

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JAFZA

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Dubai DED

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DMCC

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IFZA

From AED 11,750