What documents does a Pakistani national need to start a holding company business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Pakistan, attested documents via Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, and a business plan for your holding company venture.

How long does it take for a Pakistani citizen to set up a holding company 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my JAFZA Offshore Holding Company 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 Holding Company licence in JAFZA Offshore?

The typical processing time for a holding company licence at JAFZA Offshore is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

What business activities can I include on my JAFZA Offshore licence?

Your JAFZA Offshore licence can include holding company as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Is JAFZA Offshore good for holding company start-ups?

JAFZA Offshore is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering zero tax on all income and full capital repatriation.

How much does it cost to set up a Holding Company business in JAFZA Offshore?

The total setup cost for a Holding Company 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.

OffshoreFinancial

Holding Company in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Holding Company

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

As an offshore entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Holding Company 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 holding company 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 Holding Company?

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

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

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

Zero tax on all income

Full capital repatriation

Corporate bank account access

No physical office required

Asset protection

Visa Requirements for Pakistani Nationals

For Pakistani entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Business visa or residence visa can be sponsored by the company once incorporated. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your holding company business in JAFZA Offshore.

Banking for Pakistani Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your holding company company in JAFZA Offshore: Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation. Some banks may require additional proof of business activity. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Pakistani business structures.

Document Attestation for Pakistani Nationals

Document attestation for Pakistani nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Pakistan, (2) Attestation by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to holding company businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Pakistan passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Bank reference letter from your current bank

8Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

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 holding company business plan and the best JAFZA Offshore licence options for Pakistani nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Pakistan through Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the holding company 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. Pakistani nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Pakistani entrepreneurs can open corporate bank accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your holding company 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 Pakistani nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Holding Company in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750