RAK Maritime City Business Setup
Start your business in Ras Al Khaimah’s world-class maritime free zone.
Ideas Business Setup Expert helps entrepreneurs launch smoothly in RAK Maritime City (RAKMC) with expert guidance, affordable packages, and hassle-free licensing.
100% foreign ownership| Strategic port access for global trade| Quick & simple company registration
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the fastest-growing emirates in the UAE, and RAK Maritime City (RAKMC) is its flagship free zone dedicated to trade, shipping, logistics, and industrial activities. Positioned at the northern tip of the UAE, with direct sea access to major international shipping routes, RAKMC has become a hub for global companies seeking an efficient, cost-effective base.
Ideas Business Setup Expert provides end-to-end assistance for entrepreneurs looking to establish their presence in RAK Maritime City. From trade license applications to visa processing, we ensure a smooth business setup journey.
Why Choose RAK Maritime City for Business Setup?
Setting up in RAKMC provides unmatched opportunities for companies targeting international markets. The zone is especially attractive for shipping, manufacturing, warehousing, and trading businesses.
Reasons to choose RAKMC include:
- Prime seaport access with deep-water facilities.
- Tax-free environment with 0% corporate and personal tax.
- Affordable licensing and setup costs compared to other UAE free zones.
- Infrastructure built for heavy industries and logistics.
- Proximity to major markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Benefits of Business Setup in RAKMC
Businesses established in RAK Maritime City enjoy a variety of advantages:
- 100% foreign ownership – no need for a local partner.
- Full repatriation of capital and profits.
- Zero restrictions on currency.
- Multiple business activities under a single license.
- Access to warehousing, open yards, and customizable plots.
- Simple and fast company registration process.
Pro tip: For investors aiming to expand internationally, RAKMC’s port-centric model makes it one of the most cost-effective free zones in the UAE.
Legal Structures Available in RAK Maritime City
When setting up a business in RAK Maritime City, you can choose from different structures:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single owner.
- Free Zone Company (FZC) – Multiple shareholders.
- Branch of a Foreign Company – Ideal for global firms expanding into the UAE.
- Branch of a UAE Company – For local businesses wanting a presence in RAKMC.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Business in RAKMC
Starting a business in RAK Maritime City is straightforward when guided by Ideas Business Setup Expert.
Steps include:
Infographic idea: “7 Steps to Business Setup in RAK Maritime City”
RAK Maritime City Business Setup Costs
RAK Maritime City is known for affordable packages compared to other UAE free zones. Costs vary based on business type, license category, and office/warehouse requirements.
| Package Type | Approx. Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Trading License | 11,500 – 14,000 | License + registration |
| Industrial License | 18,000 – 22,000 | License + facility access |
| Service License | 10,000 – 12,500 | License + admin support |
| Warehouse Lease | From 30,000 | Customizable space |
Tip: Choosing a business setup package with warehouse facilities offers long-term savings for trading companies.
Documents Required for RAKMC Company Registration
To register your company in RAK Maritime City, you need:
- Passport copies of shareholders.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Application form.
- Business plan (for industrial projects).
- Lease agreement (for warehouse or office space).
For a detailed list, check our guide on Documents Required for Free Zone Business Setup .
Licenses Available in RAK Maritime City
RAKMC offers a variety of license categories:
- Commercial License – Import/export, trading activities.
- Industrial License – Manufacturing and production.
- Service License – Consulting, services, and support industries.
- General Trading License – Multiple product lines under one license.
Comparison: RAK Maritime City vs Other Free Zones
Wondering how RAKMC compares to other UAE free zones?
- RAKMC vs Hamriyah Free Zone: RAKMC is better for port-based industries, while Hamriyah Free Zone Business Setup suits heavy industries.
- RAKMC vs Sharjah Publishing City: RAKMC is logistics-driven, while Sharjah Publishing City Business Setup focuses on media and publishing.
- RAKMC vs SAIF Zone: SAIF Zone Business Setup offers proximity to Sharjah Airport, while RAKMC offers seaport advantages.
- RAKMC vs SRTIP: Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park Business Setup caters to tech innovators, while RAKMC suits trade and logistics.
Visa Options in RAK Maritime City
Business owners and employees can apply for residency visas in RAKMC. Packages often include 1–3 visas, with options to add more.
For details, see our guide on Free Zone Visa UAE and Free Zone Investor Visa UAE.
Banking Support for RAKMC Companies
Opening a corporate bank account is essential. RAKMC companies can open accounts with leading UAE banks. Our guide to Bank Account Opening for Free Zone Business provides full details.
Best Business Activities to Start in RAK Maritime City
- Shipping and logistics
- Industrial manufacturing
- Import/export of goods
- Warehousing and distribution
- Marine-related services
Internal Links to Related Free Zone Setup Guides
To understand more about UAE free zones, explore:
- Free Zone Business Setup Cost UAE
- Documents Required for Free Zone Business Setup
- Free Zone vs Mainland Business Setup
- Advantages of Free Zone Business Setup
- How to Get Free Zone License UAE
- Free Zone Visa UAE
- Bank Account Opening for Free Zone Business
- Free Zone Investor Visa UAE
- Start Business as Foreigner in UAE
Yes, RAK Maritime City allows 100% foreign ownership, making it attractive for international investors looking to establish a presence in the UAE.
With proper documentation, company registration in RAK Maritime City usually takes 5–10 working days. Ideas Business Setup Expert ensures a smooth and quick process.
RAKMC is best for trading, logistics, warehousing, shipping, and industrial manufacturing companies. Its seaport connectivity makes it a strong choice for global trade businesses.
