Compare jurisdictions side by side
See 2 or 3 jurisdictions side by side: all-in cost for year 1 and year 2, headline tax, audit, registers and time to form. Hong Kong is a good fit for trade with China & Asia, territorial tax. Singapore is a good fit for Asia HQ, investors, treaties with around 100 jurisdictions. British Virgin Islands is a good fit for holding, JV, investment vehicle.
| Comparing2 jurisdictions | UAE Dubai Mainland | UAE RAK ICC |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ||
| Year 1 all-in | UAE Dubai MainlandUS$3,490 | UAE RAK ICCUS$1,390✓ Lowest |
| From year 2 | UAE Dubai MainlandUS$2,510 | UAE RAK ICCUS$1,000 |
| 3-year cost (Starter) | UAE Dubai MainlandUS$8,510 | UAE RAK ICCUS$3,390 |
| Tax & reporting | ||
| Headline tax | UAE Dubai Mainland9% above AED 375k | UAE RAK ICC0% / 9%✓ Best |
| Annual audit | UAE Dubai MainlandYes | UAE RAK ICCNo✓ Best |
| Public register | UAE Dubai MainlandLimited | UAE RAK ICCNot public |
| Setup | ||
| Type | UAE Dubai MainlandOnshore | UAE RAK ICCOffshore |
| Entity | UAE Dubai MainlandLLC | UAE RAK ICCInternational Business Company |
| Minimum directors | UAE Dubai Mainland1 | UAE RAK ICC1 |
| Legal system | UAE Dubai MainlandMixed | UAE RAK ICCMixed |
| Time to form | UAE Dubai Mainland3–5 weeks | UAE RAK ICC3–7 days |
| Best for | UAE Dubai MainlandTrading in the UAE market | UAE RAK ICCHolding, property in UAE |
Ask about this comparison
AI answers from OCC’s published jurisdiction facts · no sign-up
Which one for your situation
You need a business bank account soon
Hong Kong or Singapore. Banks usually find onshore companies easier to assess, but each bank decides.
You want a lower running cost
British Virgin Islands, from US$1,795 a year based on published year-2 prices.
You only hold shares or other assets
British Virgin Islands. Your home country may still tax the income, so check that first (confirm with your specialist).
You need it fast
Hong Kong, typically 1–2 business days after KYC approval.
General guidance based on headline rules, not tax or legal advice. Your specialist confirms how tax residency, substance and banking apply to you before you pay.