What is RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)? Company Formation, Benefits, Process, and Cost 2025

Ras Al Khaimah, or RAK as it is commonly referred to, is becoming one of the most rapidly developing commercial hubs in the Arabian Gulf. It was reported in recent years that RAK is attracting hundreds of new investors every month, taking advantage of its strong rules, modern systems, and investor-friendly policies.

The most reliable place to establish an international company here is the RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC). It is an international center for offshore incorporation and is considered to be trustworthy and secure. RAK ICC is the choice of entrepreneurs when they decide to incorporate their business, as it offers easy, quick, and affordable company set-up solutions.

The company’s still one of the best options for focusing on international trade, protecting assets, and functioning overseas in as many other jurisdictions as it was in 2025. It is a blend of flexibility and trust-based efficiency — all under one robust UAE jurisdiction supported by internationally proven standards.

What Is RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC)?

The RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) is a government-run authority based in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. It permits deposits from people and businesses in any country to open an International Business Company in RAK. These companies may be able to trade around the world, own assets such as property or ships, and hold stakes in other companies.

RAK International Corporate Center was formed in the year 2015 when two RAK offshore registries – RAK International Companies and the former RAK Offshore authorities were amalgamated. It has since developed rapidly and is now one of the premier business hubs in the region.

Today, RAK ICC manages over 15,000 active companies from more than 160 countries, showing strong global trust. Many of these are holding companies, investment firms, and family-owned businesses looking for safety, privacy, and flexible rules.

The authority also works closely with the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). This alliance offers investors the best of both worlds — offshore and onshore advantages. You can open an international company through RAK ICC for global operations and, if you wish, set up a RAKEZ subsidiary to trade or employ people inside the UAE.

Benefits of RAK ICC Company Formation

Setting up a company under the RAK ICC gives you many strong advantages. It’s one of the safest, fastest, and most trusted ways to form an international company in the UAE. Here we have the following RAK ICC benefits for investors: 

• 100% Foreign Ownership

You can own 100% of your company with RAK ICC. No local sponsor or partner is required. It’s that, with this rule, you retain all the control over decisions and earnings — a major reason why businesses from 160+ countries have migrated to work with RAK ICC.

• No Tax on Revenue or Profits

Offshore companies do not pay taxes, neither in the state where it is registered nor in other countries. You can retain your profits and expand your business without any additional tax expense. In addition to that, the UAE has more than 140 double-taxation agreements, which also means you can do business internationally while mitigating tax liabilities.

• Privacy sounds and privacy data protections

RAK ICC ensures complete confidentiality. There is no public register of shareholders and directors. The registered agent and the authority are the only ones with that information. This protects you from prying eyes and public or online view of your information— great for asset protection and family holdings!

• No Physical Office Requirement

You can handle your RAK ICC entity from all over the world. There is no requirement to rent an office or pay for physical space in the UAE. That makes things convenient for entrepreneurs who are running a digital or International Business Company in RAK from a distance.

• Low Setup and Renewal Costs

RAK ICC is among the least expensive of offshore jurisdictions. Basic packages begin at approximately USD 2,050 (AED 7,500). Even with an extra foray to the premium tier that gives access onshore to RAKEZ, you’re looking at starting costs well under AED 17,500 – still substantially cheaper than most zones elsewhere in the UAE.

• Quick and Simple RAK ICC Registration Process

If you have all your files in hand, registration takes 1 -3 days working days. An authorized registered agent manages the whole process; there’s no need to go to the UAE physically.

• Access to Global Banking

RAK ICC entities can be provided with multi-currency bank accounts in the UAE or abroad. These accounts facilitate accepting international payments and managing cross-border transactions securely.

• Safe Storage and Asset Protection

RAK ICC is based on the UAE’s robust legislation for asset protection. RAK ICC is there for many families and investors to hold properties, shares, and funds securely. It’s a safeguard to keep your money insulated from the tides of risk, legal challenges, or currency bubbles.

• Strategic global market coverage

Ras Al Khaimah is wedged between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Geography. Its position is a very strong link for international trade. Businesses here are only a four-hour flight away from more than two billion consumers — ideal for import-export, shipping, and logistics companies.

RAK ICC Business Setup in Dubai Process (Step-by-Step 2025 Guide)

In the RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC), company registration is easy, quick, and all in at no guidance. The entire workflow is created to aid investors in the safe and prompt configuration of their business.

In 2025, Ras Al Khaimah business setup in Dubai is still taking obvious actions to streamline company registration for international business owners.

Step 1: Name / Hire a Registered Agent.

The RAK ICC requires that you select a Registered Agent who the authority has approved. You cannot register directly with the Authority itself; only licensed agents are permitted to do so on your behalf.

The agent will handle all the formalities, make sure that documents conform to legal requirements, and act as a go-between between you and RAK ICC. This will keep your action nice, following the law of the UAE and the international standard.

Step 2: Choose a Company Name

You must choose an original business name that is compatible with the naming requirements of RAK ICC. It shouldn’t look like another company name or include banned words, such as “bank,” “insurance,” and “royal.”

Before submitting the name, your registered agent will search to see if it’s available for use in the RAK ICC Business Setup Registry system. And once it’s approved, it’s earmarked for your business.

Step 3: Get All Documents in Order

Documentation and paperwork at RAK ICC are easy and transparent. Only a few essential documents are required for you to continue:

• Copies of all passports, shareholders, and directors.
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement).
• A brief business plan explaining what you do and what your plans are
• Corporate shareholders may have to submit additional documents, such as a Certificate of Incorporation or Board Resolution.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Your agent will file the company formation application with the RAK Authority.

The authority is responsible for everything, checking all the details for 99.100% to be clean and in compliance with AML and KYC, which is basically required everywhere, even offshore betting legislation requirements are met accordingly if such services are provided.

Step 5: Get Your Certificate of Incorporation

After your RAK ICC FZCO company registration is approved, you will get your RAK ICC Certificate of Incorporation. This legal entity document is your proof of your company’s existence in the UAE.

You are likely to get the following with it :

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA).
• Share Certificates
• Company Register

Step 6: Open a Bank Account

With your new RAK offshore company formation documents, you can go ahead and open a UAE business bank account (or in any other country accepting offshore companies).

RAK ICC companies frequently bank with institutions such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, or international banks in Europe and Asia.

Cost of RAK Company Setup in Dubai

The setup cost to set up a company in the RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) is determined by the package you choose and the services needed. 2025 RAK ICC continues to be one of the most competitive and transparent offshore jurisdictions in the UAE.

Basic Package (Standard RAK Offshore Company Formation)

The most popular among small business owners and entrepreneurs is the Basic Package.

Price Commencing at: Approximately USD 2,050 (AED 7,500)

Includes:

• Company name reservation
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Article of the Association (A to Z)
• Digital copies of share certificates
• One year of reg agent service
• Government filing fees

Platinum Package – (Onshore and RAK ICC Offshore Company Setup)

The Premium Package is more flexible for those who want both the offshore RAK ICC benefits for investors and access to the UAE market. This is done by linking your offshore RAK ICC company with an onshore subsidiary under RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone).

Price Start: AED 17,500 (Approx)

Includes:

• All basic setup features
• A dedicated business consultant
• Onshore trading license through RAKEZ
• Help with opening a company bank account
• Document attestation and courier services
• Annual compliance guidance

Additional and Optional Costs

There may be some additional fees depending on your business type and the services you select. Here is an approximate cost breakdown: 

Many agents will give you a bundle discount if you register more than one company or for multiple years at a time.

Why RAK ICC is Cheaper than Other Offshore Jurisdictions

Lower price in set up and management costs (set up 1000 USD), prices are compared with the registrar in this region (butlers alghouf etc), RAK-compared to other offshore extensions such as :

• British Virgin Islands (BVI)
• Cayman Islands
• Seychelles

These other jurisdictions sometimes charge registration fees of 3,000 to 5,000 USD and have annual maintenance fees that are higher. RAK ICC, on the other hand, offers the same international recognition, with a clearly more cost-effective fee schedule and access to the robust banking system of the UAE.

In Summary

RAK ICC stands out for its low startup cost, quick setup, and strong banking link. For investors looking for a trusted and budget-friendly offshore base, RAK International Corporate Center Ras Al Khaimah business setup in Dubai continues to be one of the best options in 2025.

Company Formation Options

RAK International Corporate Center (RAK ICC) provides a variety of company formats suitable for all international investors. You can choose from an array that fits your business requirements and future needs.

Standard Offshore Company

This is the most prevalent under RAK ICC. It’s perfect for:

• International trading and e-commerce
• Global investment management
• Shares or properties owned by the holding company outside the country

RAK ICC + RAKEZ Hybrid Company 

This is another popular and cost-effective structure that can be used in order to access certain benefits of both of the said jurisdictions.

This arrangement takes advantage of the power of a double zone – RAK ICC (offshore) and RAKEZ(Freezone).

You have the best of both worlds:

• Offshore flexibility for global operations
• Onshore advantages, such as office space and trading in the local UAE market. 

It is a mixed model, which has been gaining international attention as it enables investors to do business globally while having operations on the ground in the UAE.

By 2025, experts predict that RAK Hybrid companies will increase by 35% on the back of growing foreign interest and Dubai–RAK trade connections.

Holding Company

RAK ICC Holding Company is ideal for:

• Real estate
• Shares in other companies
• Intellectual property rights

It is offering you to secure your wealth in a stable legal environment of the UAE. Wealth preservation and legacy planning are the reasons why a significant number of international families and investors avail themselves of this opportunity.

Family Office

High-net-worth individuals and their families who would like to have control choose a Family Office structure because it is for those who want to oversee:

• Family wealth
• Investments
• Long-term estate planning

Notably, with the UAE now in the top 10 countries for safe private wealth management (2025 Global Wealth Report), more and more families are establishing RAK ICC Family Offices, where privacy and security are assured, offering tax flexibility.

There is a unique purpose for every RAK ICC structure:

• If what you want is straightforward trading, go offshore.
• So if you want a presence in the UAE, go hybrid.
• If your focus is asset protection, go with a holding or a family office.

RAK ICC and Banking Access

After you register your RAK ICC company, it’s straightforward to open a UAE business bank account. The UAE banking system is one of the most robust banking systems in the world and has been listed among the 20 safest banks worldwide (Global Finance Report 2025).

Some of the most popular UAE banks that accept RAK ICC companies are:

• Emirates NBD
• RAKBANK
• Mashreq Bank
• ADCB (Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank)

Most banks let you open a multi-currency account, which means you can keep and transfer money in AED, USD, EUR, or GBP. It helps businesses trade and invest without boundaries.

Important Note:

Banks will conduct a KYC (Know Your Customer) check before approving. They may ask for:

• Your company documents
• Passport copies of shareholders/directors
• A simple business plan

After your account has been approved, you’ll have complete access to digital banking features in the UAE, international transfers, and secure gateways. This provides your company with a solid foundation to expand globally.

Legal and Tax Advantages of RAK ICC

UAE company formation RAK ICC. One of the main factors due to which investors prefer RAK ICC business setup is that it has tax tax-free system and a strong legal shield also strong.

Here’s why RAK ICC has become so popular:

• No Corp Tax: You’re not taxed as a corporation.
• No Income Tax: Personal income you earn from a company is tax-free.
• No VAT on Offshore Business: You don’t have to pay VAT on international funds.

RAK ICC follows the common law, which is easy to understand and known internationally. This simplifies how global investors can interpret and do business under the UAE laws.

There are also robust asset protection laws available in the jurisdiction. Your business and personal assets are protected under the UAE’s stable and highly respected legal system.

RAK ICC and Global Expansion

RAK ICC is not just an offshore jurisdiction — it’s a world in itself. Thanks to its flexible firm structures, German ventures can scale and grow internationally with little friction.

Your RAK ICC company can:

• Shareholding in other worldwide companies.
• Invest in real estate in selected areas of the UAE.
• Trade/international trade and invest across international markets.
• Serve as a holding company for subsidiaries in multiple countries.

This is why RAK ICC is perfect for investors looking at long-term worldwide expansion. Being located close to Asia, Africa, and Europe makes it a link to three of the largest markets in a couple of hours.

By 2025, RAK ICC is targeting to support over 20,000 active international businesses as they widen their footprint from a stable UAE foundation.

Common Misunderstandings About RAK ICC

Many have a mistaken impression that offshore accounts are illegal or employed solely for the purpose of evading taxes. That’s false.

RAK ICC is a legitimate and independent governmental body that forms part of the RAK Investment Authority. It complies with international laws on compliance and Anti-Money Laundering (AML).

Here’s the truth:

• RAK ICC companies are legally allowed to trade around the world
• They manage international holdings and assets
• Can open an account in a UAE or foreign bank
• They can purchase property in designated areas of the UAE

RAK ICC stands for transparency, compliance, and trust. Each company that is registered under it operates within a clear rule of law, providing investors with complete peace of mind.

Why Hire Business Setup Experts in Dubai for RAK ICC Setup?

The process for company formation under the RAK ICC is easy, but getting through each stage properly can be challenging. Some components — not least opening bank accounts or complying with complex regulations or signing documents in the presence of recognized experts who can accept responsibility for your identity — demand specialist input. That’s the reason why lots of investors prefer to work with professional business consultants in the UAE.

They Take Care of the Paperwork

It is because the Business Setup Consultants in Dubai are aware of what the RAK ICC authority demands. They assist with documents, forms, and deadlines. This minimizes inaccuracies and also quickens approval.

They Will Help You Decide What Company Type to Choose

Whether you need a Standard Offshore Company, RAK ICC + RAKEZ hybrid, or a Holding Company, Business setup experts in Dubai can help, according to where you want to go with your business and what you have available as far as budget goes.

They Assist with Banking

UAE corporate bank account opening can sometimes be a long process because the KYC checks are very thorough. Savvy consultants already understand that some banks are better than others for RAK ICC offshore company setup. They walk you through the process and help raise your chances of being approved.

They Navigate Renewals and Compliance

Business Setup Consultants in Dubai nudge you about annual renewals, license changes, and shareholders to make sure your company stays active and compliant.

They Save Time and Effort

Rather than trying to figure out esoteric forms or bank requests on your own, consultants handle it all — freeing you up to run your business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is RAK ICC? How does it work?

RAK International Corporate Center Ras Al Khaimah, is a UAE government authority that enables entrepreneurs to establish their business offshore. It’s the place where a company can buy and sell around the world, own assets, and control investments — with full foreign ownership, no taxes, and secrecy.

Q2: Is a RAK ICC Company 100% foreign-owned?

Yes. RAK ICC permits 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local sponsor or partner. This is one of the reasons why investors from 160+ countries select RAK ICC for offshore company formation.

Q3: How Much Time Does RAK ICC Company Creation Take?

Suppose all the documents are ready, the RAK ICC registration process time is from 1 to 3 working days. And it’s even quicker if you use an authorized RAK ICC-registered agent or consultant.

Q4: How much does it cost to set up a RAK ICC offshore company?

The standard package of UAE offshore company registration kicks off at an estimated USD 2,050 (approx. AED 7,500). Their premium package, which comes with onshore access through RAKEZ, begins at approx. AED 17,500. Additional costs may be agent charges, bank setup, and doc attestation.

Q5: Can a RAK ICC company apply to open a bank account in the UAE?

Yes. The majority of RAK ICC firms are able to open corporate accounts with banks such as Emirates NBD, RAKBANK, Mashreq, and ADCB. The bank may also require KYC documents before approving the same.

Conclusion

Create an RAK ICC offshore company setup in the safest and most trusted places to incorporate. The UAE is known for its free zone jurisdictions. It is operated by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE’s most stable and investment-friendly emirates.

RAK ICC provides investors with everything they desire — 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or income taxes, and complete privacy with documents kept confidential. Most businesses can be incorporated in 1 to 3 business days, which is one of the fastest setup times offshore in the region.

Over 15,000 overseas companies are currently registered with RAK ICC, which demonstrates its reputation and trust internationally. Europeans, Asians, and Africans all select RAK ICC, as it is based on common law, complies with global AML and KYC standards, and plugs into the strong services developed within the UAE’s banking/legal structure.

And to make it even smoother, use experienced business setup consultants in Dubai for RAK International Corporate Center Ras Al Khaimah. These professionals manage just about everything, from the RAK ICC registration process to document attestation to name approval to opening bank accounts and renewing contracts. They can help so you can concentrate on building your business while they take care of the initial setup work accurately and promptly.