Both Seychelles and Panama are popular offshore jurisdictions for UAE-based founders. We compare incorporation costs, privacy protections, banking access, and which works better depending on your structure.
Why offshore?
An offshore company holds assets, opens international bank accounts, and owns shares in other entities — without requiring a UAE trade licence or local presence. UAE founders commonly use offshore vehicles for IP holding, international trading, asset protection, and intercompany structuring. The two most popular non-UAE offshore jurisdictions for this purpose are Seychelles and Panama.
Seychelles IBC
A Seychelles International Business Company (IBC) incorporates in 3–5 business days and costs from AED 3,500 including government fees. Seychelles IBCs are widely accepted by UAE banks — they have a long track record in the region and the jurisdiction is on most banks' approved lists. Annual renewal is low-cost (typically AED 2,000–3,500). Best suited for: trading entity, holding structure for UAE or other assets, simple asset protection.
Panama Foundation / Corporation
Panama offers two vehicles: the Panama Corporation (SA) for trading and operational use, and the Panama Private Interest Foundation for estate planning and asset protection. Panama has stronger privacy laws than Seychelles — bearer shares were abolished but nominee structures remain well-supported. Formation takes 5–10 days from AED 5,000. Panama is preferred when the primary use case is estate planning, multi-generational wealth transfer, or when the founder needs a jurisdiction with extensive treaty history.
Which to choose
Choose Seychelles if cost-efficiency and fast UAE banking acceptance are priorities — it is the more straightforward option for most founders. Choose Panama if you need stronger asset protection, estate planning functionality, or a jurisdiction with deep legal infrastructure. StrataLink forms both Seychelles and Panama entities and can advise on which fits your specific structuring, banking, and tax goals.
Take the next step with StrataLink
Ready to take the next step?
StrataLink handles UAE company formation, bank accounts, and visas end-to-end. Get a free consultation and custom proposal within 24 hours.
Get a Free Consultation