What documents does a Chinese national need to start a physiotherapy business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for a Chinese citizen to set up a physiotherapy 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.

What are the tax implications for a Physiotherapy 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 a foreigner own 100% of a Physiotherapy 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 business activities can I include on my JAFZA Offshore licence?

Your JAFZA Offshore licence can include physiotherapy 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.

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

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Physiotherapy company in JAFZA Offshore?

Most of the setup process for a physiotherapy business in JAFZA Offshore can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. Offshore company registration can typically be completed entirely remotely without any UAE visit.

OffshoreHealthcareRegulated Activity

Physiotherapy in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Physiotherapy

Setting up a Physiotherapy business in JAFZA Offshore as a Chinese citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to China-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Chinese 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 healthcare 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 physiotherapy 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 Physiotherapy?

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

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

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

Zero tax on all income

Full capital repatriation

Corporate bank account access

No physical office required

Asset protection

Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals

Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. Once your physiotherapy 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 Chinese Business Owners

Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations. Several UAE banks have dedicated Chinese business desks and Mandarin-speaking staff. For your physiotherapy business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Chinese business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any China-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Chinese Nationals

Chinese nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for physiotherapy), 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 China passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

7Professional qualification certificates or approvals from DHA

8Bank reference letter from your current bank

Regulatory Note: Physiotherapy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DHA 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 physiotherapy business plan and the best JAFZA Offshore licence options for Chinese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the physiotherapy 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. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.

Start Operations

Your physiotherapy 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 Chinese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Physiotherapy 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