Other
Holding Company
A company that owns shares in other companies or holds assets, rather than trading itself.
Who is it for?
Founders and families structuring ownership of several businesses or assets.
Common business models
- Group holding structure
- Asset holding
- Investment holding
- Possible licence structure
- Holding activities are defined differently by each authority.
- Mainland considerations
- Possible depending on structure and emirate rules.
- Free zone considerations
- Several free zones offer holding structures; some restrict visas for holding entities.
- Office requirements
- Substance expectations depend on purpose and tax position.
- Visa considerations
- Some authorities limit or exclude visas for pure holding companies.
- Banking considerations
- Banks will want a clear description of clients, suppliers, expected transaction volumes and the countries you deal with.
- Potential approvals
- Usually none, but and corporate tax considerations are important.
IBS services
Related glossary terms
Last reviewed: 25 September 2026
General educational content — not legal or tax advice. IBS is not affiliated with any government entity. Always confirm current requirements with the official authority.