What documents does a German national need to start a insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage venture.

How long does it take for a German citizen to set up a insurance brokerage 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 an Insurance Brokerage business in JAFZA Offshore?

The total setup cost for an Insurance Brokerage 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Insurance Brokerage company in JAFZA Offshore?

Yes, JAFZA Offshore allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What are the tax implications for an Insurance Brokerage 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my JAFZA Offshore Insurance Brokerage 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.

Is JAFZA Offshore good for insurance brokerage start-ups?

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

OffshoreFinancialRegulated Activity

Insurance Brokerage in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Insurance Brokerage

The UAE continues to attract German entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and JAFZA Offshore is one of the most popular jurisdictions for insurance brokerage operations. Strong German business community (~15,000), 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 Insurance Brokerage business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Insurance Authority before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up insurance brokerage 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 Insurance Brokerage?

Choosing JAFZA Offshore for your insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage professionals. Furthermore, no physical office required positions your insurance brokerage 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 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 insurance brokerage business in JAFZA Offshore.

Banking for German Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage 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)

5Completed application form for trade licence

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

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Insurance Authority

8Relevant industry experience documentation

Regulatory Note: Insurance Brokerage is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Insurance Authority 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 insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage 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 insurance brokerage 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.

Insurance Brokerage in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000