Petroleum Trading in JAFZA Offshore for Canadian nationals
OffshoreCommercialRegulated Activity

Petroleum Trading in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Petroleum Trading

Setting up a Petroleum Trading business in JAFZA Offshore as a Canadian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to Canada-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Canadian business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at JAFZA Offshore has been streamlined significantly, with most commercial licences processed within 5 business days. As an offshore entity, you benefit from maximum privacy and asset protection. The base licence fee is approximately AED 18,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your petroleum trading business in JAFZA Offshore. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why JAFZA Offshore for Petroleum Trading?

JAFZA Offshore is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for commercial businesses, and for good reason.

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

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

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

Visa Requirements for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your petroleum trading 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 Canadian Business Owners

Canadian nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong Canadian-UAE relations facilitate banking processes. For your petroleum trading business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Canadian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Canada-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Canadian Nationals

Canadian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for petroleum trading), 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 Canada passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Passport-sized photographs with white background
5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Bank reference letter from your current bank

Regulatory Note: Petroleum Trading is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Ministry of Energy 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 petroleum trading business plan and the best JAFZA Offshore licence options for Canadian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Canada through Global Affairs Canada / Provincial Authentication and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the petroleum trading 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. Canadian nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

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

7

Start Operations

Your petroleum trading 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 Canadian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your petroleum trading in JAFZA Offshore? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionJAFZA Offshore
Typeoffshore
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 18,000
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code47160

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 Petroleum Trading?

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