How long does it take to form a RAK Offshore company?

It typically takes 2 to 5 working days for RAK Offshore company formation after documentation.

Can foreigners own 100% of a RAK Offshore company?

Yes, Ras Al Khaimah Offshore allows full foreign ownership without a UAE partner.

Can a RAK Offshore company operate in the UAE mainland?

No, RAK Offshore companies are restricted to international operations.

Is a physical office required for RAK Offshore companies?

No, a physical office is not required for Ras Al Khaimah Offshore company registration.

Can a RAK Offshore company open a UAE bank account?

Yes, RAK Offshore companies can open corporate bank accounts in the UAE or abroad.

Company Formation in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore 🥇

Introduction

Company formation in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore is one of the most preferred choices for investors seeking a tax-efficient and confidential structure in the UAE. This offshore jurisdiction offers entrepreneurs and corporations a way to expand globally while maintaining flexibility, privacy, and cost efficiency. Ras Al Khaimah Offshore (RAK Offshore), managed by the Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC), allows investors to manage their international assets, hold global investments, and conduct business operations outside the UAE.

Forming a company in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore helps businesses enjoy full ownership, low costs, and strong asset protection. This setup attracts international entrepreneurs who value confidentiality and want to structure their wealth or holdings efficiently within a legally secure UAE framework.

What is Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)?

The Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is the governing authority for offshore company formation in Ras Al Khaimah. It was established to provide investors with simple and effective procedures to start offshore companies that operate globally but are registered in the UAE.

RAK ICC allows investors to enjoy 100% ownership, high confidentiality, and complete repatriation of profits. Its business environment is transparent, regulated, and internationally recognized. Investors can form holding companies, limited liability companies, or even segregated portfolio structures for asset management and international trade.

RAK ICC has become one of the most trusted offshore jurisdictions in the region, offering fast incorporation, flexible company structures, and a reputation for compliance and professionalism.

Key Benefits of Company Formation in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore

RAK Offshore provides a host of benefits to investors looking for global business flexibility with minimal regulatory burdens.

Top Advantages:

100% Foreign Ownership: Investors can own their offshore company completely without any local partnership.
Tax Efficiency: Offshore companies enjoy 0% corporate tax and no income tax on profits earned outside the UAE.
No Office Requirement: You can register a company without renting or maintaining a physical office.
Confidentiality: Shareholder and director details remain private, ensuring business confidentiality.
Asset Protection: RAK Offshore companies are ideal for holding assets, managing trusts, and protecting global investments.
No VAT or Customs Duty: Offshore entities are exempt from VAT and customs duties unless trading within UAE mainland.
Fast Incorporation: The registration process is simple and often completed within a few days.
Global Credibility: RAK ICC is recognized internationally, making it easier to open global bank accounts and form business partnerships.

These benefits make Ras Al Khaimah Offshore one of the most efficient offshore jurisdictions in the UAE.

Types of Companies in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore

RAK ICC offers various types of offshore entities to cater to investors with different goals. Each structure has specific features designed for international trade, asset holding, or investment purposes.

Limited by Shares:
- Most common type of offshore company.
- Liability of shareholders is limited to their unpaid share capital.
- Suitable for trading, investment, or asset holding.
Limited by Guarantee:
- Used mainly by non-profit organizations.
- Members agree to contribute a fixed amount in case of liquidation.
Unlimited Company:
- Shareholders bear full liability for company debts.
- Typically used in high-trust arrangements or for special purposes.
Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC):
- Allows creation of separate portfolios under one entity.
- Ideal for managing funds or investments with distinct risk categories.

Each company type can be customized depending on the investor’s goals and regulatory needs.

Documents Required for Ras Al Khaimah Offshore Company Formation

To establish a company under RAK ICC, investors must prepare and submit certain essential documents.

Required Documents:

Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
Shareholder’s CV or profile
UAE visa copy or entry stamp (if applicable)
Proposed company name and business activities
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)

All documents must be verified and submitted through a registered agent authorized by RAK ICC.

Eligibility and Legal Requirements

RAK Offshore companies must follow certain requirements during incorporation and operation.

Registered Agent: Every company must appoint an approved registered agent to manage communication and compliance.
Minimum Shareholder: At least one shareholder is required, either an individual or a corporate entity.
Director: At least one director is needed; the same person can act as shareholder and director.
Company Name: The company name must end with “Limited” or “Ltd” and not include restricted terms like “bank” or “insurance.”
No Minimum Capital Requirement: There’s flexibility in capital structure with no fixed minimum amount.
Annual Renewal: The company license must be renewed each year through the registered agent.

Restrictions on RAK Offshore Companies

While RAK Offshore companies offer several advantages, there are restrictions to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.

Restrictions Include:

No direct business operations in UAE mainland
No trading within the UAE local market
No employment sponsorship for staff in the UAE
No banking or insurance activities without a specific UAE license
Property ownership only allowed in designated free zones (with RAK ICC and DLD approval)

These restrictions ensure that RAK Offshore companies focus on international business while maintaining UAE regulatory compliance.

Step-by-Step Process for Company Formation in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore

Step 1: Choose a Company Name and Activity
Select a unique company name following RAK ICC guidelines. The name must be distinctive and reflect the nature of the business.

Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
You must appoint a licensed registered agent such as Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, who handles document preparation, compliance, and registration.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Submit required documents, including shareholder identification, proof of address, and a completed application form.

Step 4: Review and Approval
The RAK ICC reviews your application and documents. If all requirements are met, approval is issued promptly.

Step 5: Payment of Fees
Pay the registration and license fees through your registered agent. Costs vary depending on the structure and number of shareholders.

Step 6: Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, RAK ICC issues the Certificate of Incorporation, officially confirming your company’s registration.

Step 7: Open a Corporate Bank Account
After incorporation, open a business bank account in the UAE or internationally. The registered agent can assist with introductions to trusted banks.

Step 8: Maintain Annual Compliance
Renew your offshore license annually and maintain proper accounting records as required by RAK ICC.

Common Uses of Ras Al Khaimah Offshore Companies

Offshore entities are often used for asset management, international trade, and tax optimization.

Popular Uses Include:

Holding global assets or real estate
Owning intellectual property (IP) rights
Managing global investments and trusts
Serving as a holding company for subsidiaries
Facilitating international trading and consulting

These uses make RAK Offshore companies suitable for both individuals and corporations seeking international diversification.

Taxation and Compliance

RAK Offshore companies enjoy significant tax advantages as long as they operate outside UAE mainland.

Key Highlights:

0% Corporate Tax: Offshore companies are exempt from corporate tax on income earned abroad.
No VAT: Unless conducting business in the UAE, VAT does not apply.
No Customs Duty: Imports and exports outside UAE are duty-free.
Confidential Accounting: Financial statements are maintained privately without public disclosure.

Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing ensures your offshore company stays compliant with UAE’s evolving tax regulations while optimizing financial structures efficiently.

Bank Account Opening for Offshore Companies

Opening a corporate bank account is a vital step after company registration.

Steps for Account Opening:

Submit incorporation documents and shareholder details.
Provide KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance forms.
Choose a UAE or international bank that supports offshore companies.

Banks may require additional verification for high-value transactions, ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.

Why Ras Al Khaimah Offshore is a Smart Choice

RAK Offshore combines the advantages of an international jurisdiction with the stability of the UAE. Its strong legal framework, confidentiality policies, and ease of setup make it one of the most appealing destinations for global investors.

Highlights:

Quick registration
Cost-effective licensing
Strategic geographic position
100% ownership and profit repatriation
Modern infrastructure for business expansion

What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing

Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing offers comprehensive support for company formation in Ras Al Khaimah Offshore. Our team ensures full compliance with RAK ICC regulations while providing expert assistance for documentation, tax advisory, and bank account setup.

We simplify the process by guiding you through every stage — from registration to post-incorporation compliance. Whether you’re setting up a holding structure or managing international investments, our specialists make offshore company formation smooth and efficient.