Onshore free zone companies hold licences, visas and UAE bank accounts; offshore companies hold assets without operating in the UAE. This page compares both for founders deciding which fits.
We identify the real requirement, explain it plainly, and handle the steps — so you understand what you are signing before you sign it.
Purpose, visas, banking and cost side by side.
Recommendation based on your objectives.
Offshore holding with onshore operating entity.
Both options quoted.
Plus attestation costs in the parent's country
Branch and corporate-shareholder packages quoted
*Indicative, based on current authority tariffs; every quotation is confirmed in writing before payment. Government fees, medical, Emirates ID and insurance itemised separately.
Open the Cost Estimator →Branch, subsidiary, FZE or FZC chosen on liability, tax and cost.
Parent or shareholder documents legalised for the UAE.
Application, resolutions and MOA submitted to the authority.
Licence and registration issued; lease allocated.
Establishment card and manager visa.
Bank file, UBO register, corporate tax registration.
No; visas require an onshore licence.
Yes, as corporate shareholder.
Offshore is lower cost but cannot operate in the UAE.
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