What Is RAK ICC?
RAK ICC Company Setup in Dubai – Complete Guide (2026) is designed for individuals and businesses looking for a simple, cost-effective, and internationally accepted company structure in the UAE.
RAK ICC stands for Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre. It is a UAE-based corporate registry that regulates international (offshore) companies. These companies are mainly used for business outside the UAE, asset holding, and investment purposes.
RAK ICC companies are not meant for operating a shop, office, or service business inside the UAE. Instead, they are ideal for global activities and ownership structures.
RAK ICC Full Form and Background
- Full name: Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre
- Based in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah
- Internationally recognised and compliant with global standards
- Used by entrepreneurs, investors, and families worldwide
Is RAK ICC an Offshore Company?
Yes. A RAK ICC company is commonly referred to as an offshore company, meaning:
- It does business outside the UAE
- It does not require physical presence
- It is mainly used for ownership, holding, and international activities
Who is RAK ICC Suitable For?
RAK ICC is not for everyone, but for the right profile, it is extremely effective.
International Business Owners
RAK ICC is suitable if you:
- Trade with overseas clients or suppliers
- Run an import-export or international trading business
- Sign contracts outside the UAE
It provides a UAE-based legal structure without the cost of maintaining an office.
Asset Holding and Investment Structures
RAK ICC companies are widely used for:
- Holding UAE or foreign real estate
- Owning shares in other companies
- Managing family investments
- Wealth and succession planning
Many investors prefer RAK ICC for asset protection and long-term structuring.
Consultants and Digital Entrepreneurs
If you provide:
- Consulting services
- Online services
- Digital products
- Intellectual property ownership
and your clients are outside the UAE, RAK ICC can be a practical solution.
Key Features of a RAK ICC Company
Ownership and Management
- Minimum 1 shareholder
- Minimum 1 director
- Shareholder and director can be the same person
- Any nationality allowed
- 100% foreign ownership
Office, Visa, and Physical Presence
- No office space required
- No warehouse needed
- No residence visa issued
- No need to live in the UAE
This keeps costs and compliance simple.
Banking and Financial Flexibility
A RAK ICC company can:
- Open a UAE bank account (subject to bank approval)
- Open international bank accounts
- Work with fintech and payment platforms
Banking approval depends on the business profile and compliance checks.
RAK ICC Company Setup Process (Step-by-Step)
The setup process is straightforward when handled correctly.
Step 1: Company Name Approval
- Choose a unique company name
- Certain words may require special approval
- Name must follow RAK ICC guidelines
Step 2: Documents and Compliance
Typically required:
- Passport copy of shareholder(s) and director(s)
- Proof of address
- Brief business activity description
- Compliance and KYC forms
Step 3: Registration and Incorporation
- Documents are submitted to RAK ICC
- Due diligence checks are completed
- Incorporation documents are prepared
Step 4: Certificate Issuance
Once approved, you receive:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Company registry documents
- Share certificates
Typical timeline: 7–10 working days
Common Uses of RAK ICC Companies
RAK ICC companies are commonly used for:
- Holding real estate and investments
- International trading and contracting
- Intellectual property ownership
- Group company structuring
- Wealth and succession planning
They are especially popular among investors who want simplicity and confidentiality.
Advantages and Limitations of RAK ICC
Key Advantages
- 100% foreign ownership
- No corporate tax in the UAE
- No office or visa costs
- Low setup and renewal fees
- High level of confidentiality
- Simple compliance requirements
Limitations
- Cannot do business inside the UAE
- Cannot issue residence visas
- Banking can be selective
- Not suitable for operational businesses in Dubai
FAQs – RAK ICC Company Setup in Dubai
1. Can a RAK ICC company operate in Dubai?
No. It cannot conduct business inside the UAE.
2. Is RAK ICC legal in the UAE?
Yes. It is a fully regulated UAE corporate registry.
3. Can I open a bank account for a RAK ICC company?
Yes, subject to bank compliance and approval.
4. Do I need to visit the UAE to set up a RAK ICC company?
In most cases, no physical visit is required.
5. Is RAK ICC suitable for startups?
Only if the business is international and does not require UAE operations.
6. Is annual renewal required?
Yes, RAK ICC companies must be renewed annually.
Conclusion
RAK ICC Company Setup in Dubai – Complete Guide (2026) shows that RAK ICC is a powerful and efficient offshore structure for international business owners, investors, and families who want a UAE-based company without the complexity of local operations.
When used correctly, it offers flexibility, cost savings, and global credibility.