RAK International Corporate Centre Business Setup
Launching a business in Ras Al Khaimah’s RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is one of the smartest decisions for entrepreneurs seeking global expansion, tax efficiency, and flexible ownership. At Ideas Business Setup Expert, we help you navigate every step of setting up your international company in RAK ICC smoothly.
100% foreign ownership| Zero corporate & personal tax| Global business structure
RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a global hub for offshore and international company formation in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. Known for its investor-friendly policies, RAK ICC allows entrepreneurs to build tax-efficient business structures while enjoying privacy and flexibility.
Unlike traditional free zones, RAK ICC companies are often used for holding structures, international trade, asset protection, estate planning, and intellectual property management.
If you’re exploring options, check our detailed guide on Free Zone Business Setup in UAE for an overall view.
Why Choose RAK ICC for Business Setup?
Choosing RAK ICC offers a unique set of advantages:
- Zero Corporate & Income Tax – Save on profits and reinvest globally.
- Full Ownership – 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required.
- Global Reach – Trade and operate internationally with ease.
- Privacy & Asset Protection – Beneficial ownership is protected.
- No Office Requirement – No physical office space needed, reducing costs.
Pro Tip: If you want cost-effective international structuring, RAK ICC is one of the most affordable and flexible options in the UAE.
Key Features of RAK ICC Company Formation
- International recognition & compliance with global standards
- Ideal for holding companies & SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles)
- Can own property in Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai
- Allows re-domiciliation of foreign companies
- Affordable registration and renewal fees
Types of Companies You Can Set Up in RAK ICC
RAK ICC offers different company structures suitable for investors:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Popular for international trading
- Holding Company – To hold shares, assets, or intellectual property
- Subsidiary or Branch – Extend operations of an existing company
- Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) – For asset holding or project investments
Looking for other Ras Al Khaimah options? Check our guide on RAK Free Zone Business Setup.
Step-by-Step Process for RAK ICC Business Setup
Infographic suggestion: “5 Steps to RAK ICC Business Setup”
Documents Required for RAK ICC Business Registration
You will need:
- Passport copy of shareholders & directors
- Proof of address (utility bill)
- Application form
- Business activity details
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
For more details, see our complete guide on Documents Required for Free Zone Business Setup.
RAK ICC Business Setup Costs
Here’s a breakdown of RAK ICC setup costs:
| Service | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Company Registration | 3,500 – 4,500 |
| License Fee | 2,500 – 3,000 |
| Renewal Fee | 2,000 – 2,500 |
| Bank Account Assistance | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Visa (Optional) | 3,500 – 4,000 |
Costs vary based on company type and services required. Contact Ideas Business Setup Expert for a tailored quotation.
Benefits of Setting Up in RAK ICC
- Low-cost global structuring
- Zero tax environment
- Confidentiality and asset protection
- Flexibility to own property in UAE
- International trade opportunities
- Access to UAE banking & residency options
Comparison: RAK ICC vs Other Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones
| Feature | RAK ICC | RAK EZ (RAKEZ) | RAK Maritime City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxation | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Office Requirement | No | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Offshore/Global | Industrial/SME | Shipping/Logistics |
Banking & International Trade Advantages
Setting up in RAK ICC allows you to:
- Open a UAE bank account easily
- Conduct international trade
- Repatriate profits with no restrictions
- Enjoy strong compliance under UAE regulations
Learn more about Bank Account Opening for Free Zone Business.
Visa & Residency Options
Although RAK ICC companies are typically non-visa entities, you can combine your RAK ICC structure with a UAE free zone license to obtain residency visas.
Check our guide on Free Zone Visa UAE and Free Zone Investor Visa UAE
Best Industries to Register in RAK ICC
- International trading companies
- Real estate holding firms
- Asset management & wealth structuring
- Intellectual property holding
- Consulting and advisory firms
If you’re a foreign investor, read our full guide on Starting a Business as a Foreigner in UAE.
Internal Links to Related Guides
- Free Zone Business Setup in Sharjah
- SAIF Zone Business Setup
- Sharjah Publishing City Business Setup
- Hamriyah Free Zone Business Setup
- Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park Business Setup
- Sharjah Healthcare City Business Setup
- Free Zone Business Setup Cost in UAE
- Free Zone vs Mainland Business Setup
- Advantages of Free Zone Business Setup
- How to Get Free Zone License in UAE
On average, the process takes 3–5 business days once all documents are submitted. Timelines may vary depending on approvals and document verification.
No, physical presence is not mandatory. You can complete the process remotely with the help of business setup consultants like Ideas Business Setup Expert.
RAK ICC companies are mainly used for international business, holding, and asset management. To conduct operations inside the UAE, you will need a free zone or mainland license.
