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Companies we have worked with

An offshore entity in RAK refers to a company registered with the RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) in Ras Al Khaimah. This type of company is favoured and economical for business establishment in Ras Al Khaimah.

What is RAK?

A RAK offshore company formation can engage in almost any form of international business. While it is prohibited from conducting business operations within the UAE, it can maintain a corporate account with a UAE bank.

This entity can also be utilized to own real estate property in Dubai, and currently, forming an RAK international company is the most cost-effective method.

Who Can Benefit from RAK ICC?

RAK ICC (RAK International Corporate Center) welcomes individuals looking to establish an offshore company in the UAE.

RAK ICC (RAK International Corporate Center) providing substantial benefits for

RAK Offshore Company Formation Features

Shareholders

To register an international corporation with RAK ICC, at least one shareholder is required, which can be an individual or entity. Shareholders set the capital structure and can issue shares with or without par value. Registered and bearer shares are allowed.

Directors

To register an international company with RAK ICC, you need at least one director. While corporate directors are permitted, there must be at least one individual director. Directors can be of any nationality and do not need to reside in RAK.

Company Secretary

Although the laws in Ras Al Khaimah do not mandate a company secretary, appointing one can streamline the signing duties during the RAK Offshore incorporation procedure. All companies must employ a company secretary.

Beneficial Owners

Businesses registered with RAK ICC must keep an updated register of ultimate beneficial owners and submit it to the RAK ICC authority.

Registered Address

Maintaining a registered office address within the zone is essential. RAK ICC International Business Companies must also appoint an authorized registered agent.

Taxation

RAK ICC International Business Companies in the UAE enjoy tax exemptions but may be subject to VAT on taxable supplies. They are not considered UAE residents and are ineligible for tax residency certificates or double taxation benefits.

Company Names

RAK Offshore company names must end with "incorporated" or "limited" and can be in foreign languages. Prohibited terms include assurance, bank, insurance, mutual fund, and trust. Ensure your company name is unique and compliant.

Timeline

Registering an international business with RAK ICC typically takes 4-5 days from submission. This includes reviewing and approving documents. Once approved, you’ll receive an official registration certificate to operate under RAK ICC’s jurisdiction.

Documents Required to Incorporate an Offshore Company in Ras Al Khaimah

For Directors and Shareholders

For Corporate Shareholders

Company Documents

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Steps to Set Up RAK Offshore Company

1. Choose a Company Name

Select and reserve a unique company name through the RAK ICC registry.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent
Engage a licensed registered agent to assist with the incorporation process and provide a registered office address.
3. Prepare the Required Documents
Gather and prepare all necessary documents, including identification and proof of address for directors and shareholders, company constitution, and various consent forms.
4. Submit Incorporation Documents
Submit the prepared documents to the RAK ICC through your registered agent.
5. Pay the Fees
Pay the required incorporation fees to the RAK ICC.
6. Receive Incorporation Certificate
RAK ICC will send you the Certificate of Incorporation and other relevant documents upon approval.
7. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account in RAK or another jurisdiction to manage your company’s finances.
8. Maintain Compliance
Ensure ongoing compliance with RAK regulations, including annual renewals and filings.

Governing Regulations for RAK Offshore Company Incorporation

The RAK ICC Business Companies Regulations 2018 regulates the establishment of RAK offshore companies. These regulations were established by Decree No. 12 of 2015, which created the RAK ICC corporate registry. This registry was subsequently revised by Decree No. 4 of 2016, merging the RAK Free Trade Zone and RAK International Companies, which were formerly under the RAK Investment Authority, into a single registry. Additionally, the RAK ICC Registered Agent Regulations 2018 outlines the responsibilities and criteria for registered agents in the UAE.

Ultimate Beneficial Owner Declaration (UBO)

An Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) is an individual who benefits from and exerts ultimate control over a business under Cabinet Decision No. (58) of 2020, companies incorporated under RAK ICC must report UBO information to the RAK ICC Authority. A UBO is identified as someone owning at least 25% of the company’s capital, holding voting rights for at least 25% of the shares, or having ultimate control over the company. RAK offshore entities must maintain and publicly disclose the Real Beneficiary Register (RBR) and the Partner or Shareholder Register (PSR) to comply with UBO regulations. This requirement applies to both active and liquidating companies.

Economic Substance Regulation for RAK Offshore Companies

Entities registered under the RAK ICC Authority are required to evaluate their compliance with the Economic Substance Regulation (ESR). UAE companies engaged in any of the nine Relevant Activities are subject to ESR. These activities include:
Eligible companies must fulfil ESR obligations such as filing ESR notifications, submitting ESR reports, and passing the ESR assessment. Companies undergoing liquidation must also complete an ESR self-assessment.

Benefits of RAK Offshore Company Formation

Tax Exemptions

No corporate or income taxes

Full Foreign Ownership

100% foreign ownership allowed

Confidentiality

High level of privacy and confidentiality for company owners and shareholders

No Auditing Requirements

There is no requirement to submit annual audits or financial reports

Low Setup and Maintenance Costs

Cost-effective incorporation and maintenance fees

Ease of Setup

Quick and straightforward company formation process

Bank Account Flexibility

Ability to open bank accounts in the UAE or internationally

Asset Protection

Protection of assets through a structured legal framework.

Flexibility in Business Activities

Broad range of permissible business activities

Access to International Markets

Ability to conduct international business transactions

Stable Regulatory Environment

Governed by internationally recognized regulations and laws

Why Choose IMC Group for Your RAK Company Registration

Choosing IMC Group for your Ras Al Khaimah company registration ensures a seamless and stress-free incorporation process. Here’s why:

Comprehensive Support

We handle the entire incorporation process, so you don't have to worry about the complexities of setting up a company overseas.

Stress-Free Experience

Once we have your information, we take over completely, relieving you of any pressure or administrative burden.

Expertise and Efficiency

Our experienced team ensures the process is efficient and compliant with all regulations, providing peace of mind.

Expert Guidance

Our team is highly knowledgeable about RAK regulations and will assist you in selecting the most suitable business structure.

Complete Documentation

We handle all paperwork for trade licensing, passports, and visas.

Choose IMC Group to make your RAK company registration smooth and hassle-free.
FAQs for Starting a RAK Offshore Company Formation
It takes approximately 15 weeks to start a business in Ras Al Khaimah.
In Ras Al Khaimah, there are three categories of business licenses: general trade licenses, professional licenses, and industrial licenses.
Most companies in Ras Al Khaimah do not require a local resident director. However, UAE banks typically need at least one director to be a UAE resident to approve opening a corporate bank account.
Companies operating in free zones such as RAK Free Trade Zone, RAK Media City, and RAKIA enjoy 100% tax exemption.
Only registered agents can incorporate RAKICC offshore companies. We offer our clients cost-effective and efficient offshore company registration services in the UAE.
Companies are governed by the RAK Offshore Regulations of 2006.

Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone (RAK FTZ) supports various business activities. Familiar eligible companies include:

  • Trading companies: Importing, exporting, wholesale, and retail.
  • Consulting and professional services: Legal, accounting, engineering, and IT.
  • Industrial companies: Manufacturing and production, including food processing, machinery, and chemicals.
  • E-commerce and online businesses: Conducting activities primarily through the internet.
  • Service companies: Offering services like shipping, logistics, travel, tourism, and hospitality.

The company name must:

  • Contain no more than one hundred permitted characters.
  • End with “Limited”, “Incorporated”, or their abbreviations “Ltd” and “Inc” for limited companies.
  • Be distinct from existing company names and not on the Registrar’s reserved name list.
  • Avoid restricted words like bank, council, credit, fund, and forex.
  • According to the Registrar, not be offensive or contrary to public policy or interest.

RAK ICC companies can be established as:

  • Company limited by shares (the most common)
  • Company limited by guarantee
  • Unlimited Company
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