Why Choose the UAE for a Holding Company?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is recognized for its business-friendly regulations, tax advantages, and investor protections. With zero corporate tax on most activities in free zones and access to strategic global markets, the UAE provides an ideal jurisdiction for businesses seeking asset protection, risk mitigation, and centralized control over international operations.
Our Holding Company Formation Services
1. Consultation and Strategic Planning
We start by analyzing your business objectives, investment portfolio, and risk management needs to design the most efficient holding company structure in the UAE. Our experts assess:
- Legal entity options (Mainland, Free Zone, Offshore Holding Companies).
- Future growth planning for scalability and asset protection.
- Tax optimization strategies to leverage UAE’s business-friendly regulations.
2. Legal Framework and Compliance
Understanding UAE corporate laws is essential for a successful holding company setup. We provide:
- Jurisdiction selection guidance (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore).
- Regulatory compliance strategies tailored to your business sector.
- End-to-end documentation preparation to meet UAE legal standards.
3. Registration and Licensing
We manage the full registration process, ensuring a seamless and timely setup of your holding company. Our services include:
- Submission of legal documents to UAE authorities.
- Government communication and application tracking.
- Obtaining business licenses and operational permits for compliance.
4. Post-Establishment Support & Compliance
After your holding company is established, we offer continuous legal, and strategic support to ensure smooth operations. Our services cover:
- Accounting and financial reporting to maintain compliance.
- Regulatory updates and annual compliance management.
- Asset protection strategies and corporate restructuring advice.
UAE Holding Company Formation Services
1. RAK ICC Holding Company
Overview: The Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) provides an offshore company setup with minimal requirements and strong privacy protections.
Key Benefits:
- Tax Efficiency: Zero corporate tax, personal income tax, and withholding tax.
- Ownership and Control: 100% foreign ownership for full investor control.
- Asset Protection: Strong legal framework for safeguarding intellectual property and assets.
- Cost-Effective: Lower registration and renewal fees compared to other UAE jurisdictions.
Ideal For: Businesses seeking confidentiality and tax efficiency for holding assets or intellectual property.
2. DIFC Prescribed Company
Overview: Located in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), this structure offers a cost-effective, flexible holding company option.
Key Benefits:
- Reduced Costs: Lower incorporation and licensing fees.
- Regulatory Flexibility: Simplified compliance for passive holding activities.
- Prestigious Address: Access to a world-class financial hub.
Ideal For: Entities requiring a holding company or special purpose vehicle without a physical presence.
3. DIFC Active Enterprises
Overview: A DIFC Active Company allows for full business operations, including employing staff and maintaining a physical office.
Key Benefits:
- Operational Capability: Enables active business operations within the DIFC.
- Comprehensive Licensing: Suitable for investment management and commercial activities.
- Access to DIFC Resources: Leverage the DIFC’s infrastructure and business ecosystem.
Ideal For: Businesses needing an operational base in a leading financial center.
Advantages of Establishing a Holding Company in the UAE
Tax Efficiency
Holding companies in the UAE benefit from 0% income tax and no withholding taxes on dividends or interest. This tax-friendly environment maximizes profits and reinvestment potential. The UAE’s extensive double tax treaties further optimize international tax strategies.
Asset Protection
A holding company structure safeguards assets from subsidiary liabilities. If a subsidiary faces financial difficulties, the parent company’s assets remain protected. This setup is ideal for businesses managing diverse investment portfolios.
Centralized Management
Holding companies streamline operations by consolidating management across subsidiaries. This approach simplifies decision-making, reduces administrative burdens, and ensures consistent strategy implementation. Financial reporting and resource allocation become more efficient under a unified structure.
Access to Growth Opportunities
The UAE’s strategic location bridges Eastern and Western markets, providing expansion opportunities. Its stable economy and advanced infrastructure support business growth. Holding companies in the UAE gain access to a global network of partners and investors.
Why Choose Our Services
Expertise and Experience
Our team has successfully established numerous holding companies across UAE jurisdictions. We understand legal requirements and industry-specific needs. Each consultant stays updated on UAE corporate laws to provide precise, compliant solutions.
Customized Solutions
We tailor holding company structures to fit your business size, industry, and goals. Our approach ensures scalable and optimized setups, addressing specific challenges rather than offering generic packages.
Comprehensive Support
We manage every step, from legal compliance and documentation to banking setup and structural planning. Our team handles government communications and provides ongoing compliance support post-establishment.
Steps to Get Started with Your UAE Holding Company
01
Contact Us
Reach out through phone, email, or our website contact form. Our consultants are available during UAE business hours and offer virtual meetings for international clients. We respond to initial inquiries within 24 hours.
02
Initial Consultation
We conduct a detailed discussion to understand your business objectives and explain the holding company options available in the UAE. This assessment allows us to recommend the most suitable structure and create a customized formation plan.
03
Agreement and Documentation
We prepare a service agreement outlining our responsibilities, timelines, costs, and deliverables. A checklist of required documents is provided, and our team assists with preparation and verification to ensure accuracy.
04
Formation Process
The formation process typically takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the selected jurisdiction. We handle all applications, communicate with relevant authorities, and keep you updated throughout. Upon approval, we collect your company documents and licenses from government offices.
05
Post-Formation Support
We assist in setting up corporate bank accounts, explain ongoing compliance requirements, including assistance with corporate tax registration and VAT registration, and provide regular updates on regulatory changes. Our renewable service packages offer continued support for your holding company’s management.
Start Your UAE Holding Company Today
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our holding company specialists. We will assess your needs and create a personalized formation plan.
Fill out our quick contact form below or call +971-50 504 6703 to speak with an expert.
Take the first step toward optimizing your corporate structure and protecting your business assets with a UAE holding company.
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum capital requirement varies by jurisdiction within the UAE:
- There is no minimum share capital requirement in either DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) or RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) for Prescribed or Holding Companies.
Annual compliance typically includes:
- Preparation of financial statements.
- Audit requirements, which vary by jurisdiction.
- Filing of annual returns or confirmation statement.
- License renewal.
DIFC companies may have additional regulatory obligations.
Yes, UAE holding companies can own real estate; however, restrictions apply depending on the location:
- DIFC Companies: DIFC holding companies can be used to hold assets within the UAE, the GCC, or anywhere else in the world.
- Mainland Holding Companies: Have broader property ownership rights across the UAE.
- RAK ICC Companies: RAK ICC holding companies can hold real estate property in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai and even worldwide.
The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax starting in June 2023. However, qualifying holding companies may benefit from participation exemptions on dividends and capital gains from qualifying shareholdings.
Additionally, starting January 2024, the UAE will implement a 15% minimum top-up tax on large multinational companies with consolidated global revenues of €750 million or more, aligning with the OECD’s global tax agreement.
Yes, UAE holding companies are commonly used for family wealth management and succession planning. They provide asset protection while allowing controlled distribution of assets to family members.
- Free Zone Holding Companies: Operate within designated areas with specific regulatory frameworks, allowing 100% foreign ownership and offering benefits like tax exemptions.
- Offshore Holding Companies (e.g., RAK ICC): Operate under international business company regulations with enhanced privacy and are typically used for international business activities without physical presence in the UAE.
Yes, many UAE jurisdictions allow the redomiciliation of foreign companies. The process involves submitting corporate documents, proof of good standing, and meeting the local jurisdiction’s requirements.