Cecilia D’Cunha is a dynamic and influential business leader known for her substantial contributions to onshore/offshore incorporation and corporate compliance in Dubai and the UAE. With over 30 years of experience and a wealth of international exposure from living in countries such as India, Hong Kong, and the UAE, Cecilia has earned a reputation as a trusted expert in business consulting, particularly in the area of UAE Free Zones and Offshore Incorporation services.
Cecilia’s journey began in India, where she built a solid educational foundation, earning dual degrees in Commerce and Law. In addition, she became a Chartered Secretary, which deepened her knowledge of corporate governance and compliance. Her early career included training with multinational companies like Boots Pharmaceuticals, Herbertsons, and the former Damania Airlines, giving her experience across diverse industries.
After gaining valuable experience, Cecilia moved to Hong Kong to broaden her global perspective. There, she worked for a company specializing in offshore companies and trusts, which exposed her to working with jurisdictions worldwide, including the UK, British Virgin Islands, Mauritius, Seychelles, Anguilla, and Hong Kong. This exposure marked the beginning of her journey into the offshore world, where she learned about setting up companies in jurisdictions offering specific tax benefits, asset protection, and streamlined business regulations. These corporate structures allow businesses to operate internationally while minimizing their tax liabilities.
In 1998, Cecilia moved to the UAE to establish operations for her Hong Kong-based company. This transition came with numerous challenges, including obtaining licenses and visas. At the time, the UAE was emerging as a global business hub, attracting companies from around the world. However, many of these companies struggled to navigate the local legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly when it came to offshore entities. Cecilia saw this gap as an opportunity to introduce offshore incorporation—a relatively new concept in the UAE.
She recalls, “Apart from international offshore companies, the UAE saw the establishment of local offshore companies in Jebel Ali, Ras Al Khaimah, and Ajman. The Free Zones were also very attractive for new companies and entrepreneurs as they offered 100% foreign ownership and flexi office packages. These are great advantages for newcomers wanting to test the UAE waters. The process of company formation in the UAE started slowly but surely, evolving to meet the needs of clients who wanted to trade locally and needed residency visas and bank accounts.”
In 2005, Cecilia left her job to start her own company, Zenesis Corporation, to provide boutique services in the corporate services sector. Reflecting on the early days of her venture, she says, “The start was challenging, especially as a woman and full-time mom. There were many barriers that led to inner conflicts. I often questioned whether I was doing enough for my family while also devoting sufficient time to my business, which was like another baby to me. Fortunately, the UAE provided an environment where I could excel in both spheres. With the support of my husband and my children, I was able to survive and then thrive.”
As the UAE continued to evolve, so did the services offered by Zenesis Corporation. What began with offshore incorporation services expanded to include onshore services, bookkeeping, VAT registration, filing, corporate tax matters, and management consultancy. “I call myself a ‘Messenger to Manager’ because I’m not afraid of doing simple tasks,” she shares. “This allows me to guide my clients with the experience and expertise I’ve gathered along the way. I believe that once you learn from the bottom up, you become independent and can weather any storm, having learned the basics.” Today, Zenesis Corporation is considered one of the top boutique agencies in the UAE and the Middle East.
Cecilia believes that one of her key strengths as a business leader is her deep understanding of compliance. In today’s globalized world, businesses must navigate a complex web of regulations that vary across jurisdictions. Cecilia’s qualifications as a Chartered Secretary and her legal background give her a unique ability to manage these complexities. She has helped businesses ranging from small startups to large multinational corporations ensure compliance with both local UAE laws and international regulations, minimizing legal risks and ensuring smooth, efficient operations.
Cecilia is also known for her commitment to mentoring and empowering the next generation of business leaders. She is passionate about sharing knowledge and fostering a culture of continuous learning. She actively engages with young professionals aspiring to build careers in business consultancy and corporate compliance, guiding them as they navigate the complexities of the corporate world.
Through her pioneering efforts in business setup in the UAE and offshore incorporation globally, Cecilia has established herself as a prominent figure in the UAE’s business community. Her legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, making her a true trailblazer in the world of business.
Her advice to young women entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “Yes, you can have it all! You can be a great mom, a great wife, and a great entrepreneur. This does not have to be an either/or choice. My advice is to embrace the power of planning, prioritize what truly matters, and surround yourself with a strong support system. Learn to give yourself grace—there will be days of challenges, but those moments will only strengthen you. Your dreams, ambitions, and love for your family are not in conflict; they are part of the beautiful tapestry of your life. But it takes passion, courage, and most of all, patience. It all works out in the end. It has for me.”
