Holding Company in JAFZA Offshore for Russian nationals
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

The UAE continues to attract Russian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and JAFZA Offshore is one of the most popular jurisdictions for holding company operations. Growing community (~40,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from JAFZA Offshore gives your Holding Company business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities and excellent connectivity. The Holding Company activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up holding company 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 Holding Company?

Choosing JAFZA Offshore for your holding company 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 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 Russian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Russian business community.

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

Visa Requirements for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. Once your holding company 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 Russian Business Owners

Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations. IBA assists with proper documentation and bank selection. For your holding company business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Russian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Russia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for holding company), 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 Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Bank reference letter from your current bank
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
7Completed application form for trade licence
8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Russia through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the holding company 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. Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations.

7

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 Russian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your holding company 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 Code64201

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 Holding Company?

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