RAK Offshore Company Formation

RAK Offshore Company Formation

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RAKICC Offshore Company Setup

RAK International Corporate Centre (RAKICC), commonly referred to as RAK ICC, is the official corporate registry for Ras Al Khaimah, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

Established to support the growing demand for international business registration within the region, RAKICC focuses on the formation and management of offshore companies. These offshore entities, designed for operating outside the UAE while enjoying numerous benefits within the UAE, such as a favorable tax environment, ease of incorporation, and access to world-class banking facilities.

RAKICC was officially formed through Decree No. 12 of 2015, with further amendments introduced by Decree No. 4 of 2016. The creation of RAKICC was a result of a merger between two prominent registries in Ras Al Khaimah: RAK International Companies, previously operating under the RAK Free Trade Zone, and RAK Offshore, which was managed by the RAK Investment Authority. This consolidation allowed RAKICC to offer streamlined services to businesses looking to establish a presence in the UAE while maintaining a global reach.

The registry is widely recognized for its commitment to international best practices, maintaining high standards of transparency, compliance, and corporate governance. As a premier destination for offshore company formation in the UAE, RAKICC provides a wide range of services, including company incorporation, business structuring, and administrative support. 

Its state-of-the-art facilities and professional services make it an attractive choice for international entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations seeking efficient and cost-effective solutions for their offshore business needs. Through its robust legal framework and business-friendly policies, RAKICC continues to play a crucial role in facilitating global business activities in Ras Al Khaimah and beyond.

RAKICC Offshore Company Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

Full Foreign Ownership

International investors can have complete control of their business without needing a local sponsor or partner.

Tax Exemptions

Tax Exemptions

Not subject to corporate tax, income tax, or any withholding taxes.

No Auditing or Reporting Requirements

No Auditing or Reporting Requirements

Not required to file annual financial reports or undergo audits.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Confidentiality and Privacy

Shareholders, directors, and company details are not publicly disclosed, ensuring privacy and anonymity for business owners.

Cost-Effective Setup and Maintenance

Cost-Effective Setup and Maintenance

Lower initial setup costs compared to other jurisdictions and annual maintenance costs are also kept to a minimum.

Flexible Business Operations

Flexible Business Operations

Engage in a wide range of activities, including holding assets, property, intellectual property, and conducting international trade.

Access to Global Banking

Access to Global Banking

Easily open corporate bank accounts both within the UAE and internationally. 

Ease of Incorporation

Ease of Incorporation

Company incorporation often completed in just a few days with minimal paperwork and straightforward procedures.

Asset Protection and Wealth Management

Asset Protection and Wealth Management

Offers a strong legal framework for asset protection and engaging in effective wealth management strategies.

International Recognition and Reputation

International Recognition and Reputation

Adherence to international regulatory standards and compliance with international best practices enhances the credibility of businesses registered within the jurisdiction.

No Requirement for Physical Office

No Requirement for Physical Office

Do not require a physical office presence in the UAE, can maintain a virtual office.

Networking Opportunities

Networking Opportunities

The international recognition of JAFZA offshore license allows offshore companies to leverage international trade opportunities effectively.

Licenses Available in RAKICC

01. General Trading License

Allows companies to engage in international trading of goods and products, however, not allowed to trade within the UAE market directly.

02. Holding Company License

Designed for entities that wish to hold assets, such as shares in other companies, real estate, or intellectual property.

03. Consultancy/Service License

Allows offshore companies to provide consultancy, advisory, or professional services internationally, excluding the UAE market.

04. Intellectual Property Holding

 Allows companies to hold and manage intellectual property (IP) assets such as trademarks, patents, copyrights, and designs.

05. Investment and Joint Venture Activities

Acts as holding vehicles for investments and joint ventures, facilitating global partnerships and investment management.

06. International Property Holding License

For offshore companies wishing to own and manage real estate internationally, excluding properties within the UAE unless approved in designated areas.

07. Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs)

Allows the formation of Special Purpose Vehicles, typically used for risk management, asset protection, and financial structuring.

08. Family Office License

For managing the wealth and assets of a family, such as investments, succession planning, and asset protection.

RAKICC Offshore Company Setup Process

Timeline: 15 to 20 days

01 Initial Consultation and Business Planning

Engage with a business consultant or service provider to discuss your specific business needs, goals, and the type of structure suitable for your company.

Takes 1 to 3 days

02   Preparation of Documents

Gather all necessary documents for the offshore company registration as per RAKICC requirement.

Takes 3 to 5 days

03   Submission of Application

Submit the completed application, the process includes reserving the company name, submitting personal details of the shareholders and directors, and filing the Memorandum and Article of Association (MOA/AOA).

Takes 2 to 3 days 

04 Review and Approval by RAKICC

RAKICC conducts due diligence, reviews the proposed company name and activities, ensures all documents are in order, and the company structure aligns with the UAE offshore regulations.

Takes 5 to 7 days

05 Payment of Fees 

Pay the relevant registration and service fees, including registration fees, service provider fees, and any additional costs related to the company’s legal structure.

Takes 1 to 2 days 

06 Issuance of Company Documents

RAKICC issues the Certificate of Incorporation, share certificates, and other key documents, completing official registration and allowing operations.

Takes 2 to 3 days 

07  Opening a Bank Account (Optional)

Open a corporate bank account to facilitate business transactions.

Takes 5 to 10 days

Documents Required for RAKICC Offshore Company

Required documents vary based on the legal structure of the business: Individual Shareholder and Corporate Shareholder.

Document Type Individual Shareholder Corporate Shareholder
Passport Copy Copy of valid passport (for each shareholder/director) Passport copy of the company's authorized representative
Proof of Address Recent utility bill or bank statement (not older than 3 months) Proof of address for the company’s authorized representative
Bank Reference Letter May be required, depending on the service provider Bank reference letter for the company (optional but recommended)
Shareholders Resolution Not Applicable Resolution from the corporate shareholder authorizing company setup and appointing a representative
Certificate of Incorporation Not Applicable Certified copy of the corporate shareholder’s Certificate of Incorporation
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA) Not Applicable Certified copy of the corporate shareholder’s MOA/AOA
Board Resolution (for Director Appointment) Not Applicable Board resolution appointing directors for the offshore company
Directors and Shareholders List List of proposed directors and shareholders List of directors and shareholders of the corporate entity (if applicable)
Power of Attorney (if applicable) Power of attorney if appointing someone to act on behalf of the individual Power of attorney for the representative acting on behalf of the corporate entity
Company Name Proposal Proposed company name Proposed company name

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the RAK ICC Foundation fee?
 Is RAK ICC considered an offshore entity?
 What are the benefits of setting up a RAK ICC offshore company?
What is the process for setting up a RAK ICC offshore company?
Can RAK ICC offshore companies own property in the UAE?
Are there any restrictions on the type of business activities for RAK ICC offshore companies?