RAK Offshore company formation
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Ras Al Khaimah (RAK ICC) allows you to quickly set up a company — usually within a few days and remotely. You get full foreign ownership with no minimum capital. You cannot conduct business on the UAE mainland or in free zones, and this structure does not provide visas, but you will be able to open multi-currency bank accounts, own shares in UAE companies, and certain approved real estate.
Legarithm will guide you through the entire registration process and is ready to assist you at all stages of setting up your company.
RAK Offshore: see if it's the right choice for you
RAK Offshore is ideal for specific business models and objectives.
International holdings & global operations
If you’re structuring investments across multiple countries, holding shares in subsidiaries, or managing a portfolio of assets without needing a UAE physical presence, RAK Offshore provides privacy, asset protection, and straightforward governance.
SaaS platforms, blockchain projects, crypto consulting firms, web3 tools, DAO infrastructure, and digital agencies serving international clients benefit from low costs, fast setup, and the ability to operate remotely without UAE mainland restrictions.
IP and international traders
Own and license software, patents, trademarks, or creative content to clients worldwide. RAK Offshore protects intellectual property while keeping ownership private with minimal compliance.
Import and export businesses, dropshipping, and cross-border e-commerce companies that sell outside the UAE market gain a credible corporate structure with multi-currency banking and no audit requirements.
Consulting and freelance
Professional service providers (marketing, design, development, consulting) working exclusively with clients outside the UAE who want a formal corporate structure without the cost and complexity of mainland or free zone setups.
Formation process: Step-by-step
You don’t need to fly to Ras Al Khaimah. What you need is a licensed registered agent. See the steps to make it speedy and ensure clean compliance.
Timeline: 2-4 days incorporation + 2-4 weeks banking.
Costs and fees to consider
Check the prices to budget your RAK Offshore company setup.
| Item | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Government incorporation fee | €800 – €1,200 |
| Registered office (annual) | €1,000 – €2,000 |
| Agent/service provider fee | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| Corporate documents (certificates, resolutions) | €300 – €500 |
| Total Setup Cost | €3,600 – €6,700 |
| Annual Renewal | €2,000 – €4,000 |
Why choose professional support?
Legarithm can help you with all the stages of formation and compliance. Our assistance is personified and tailored to your needs.
Within incorporation
Appoint the registered agent and keep the registered address live. File UBO details per registry requirements.
Within weeks
Assistance with opening your bank/EMI account and finalizing your accounting ledger setup.
Within months
Register for UAE Corporate Tax unless your agent confirms a clear exemption in writing; always note down your first return deadline
Annually
Renew the company, agent, and registered address; run an ESR check; update UBO if anything changes; refresh KYC packs for your banks.
Keeping your entity compliant
You need to maintain these rules to have a good standing with regulators.
Annual requirements
- License Renewal: Pay the annual fee before expiry
- Registered Office: Maintain RAK address
- Record Keeping: Financial records for 7 years (no filing required)
- No Audit: Not required unless opting in
- Director/Shareholder Changes: Notify RAK ICC within 14 days
Tax compliance (if applicable)
- Corporate Tax registration with FTA
- Annual tax returns (if taxable)
- Transfer pricing documentation (if related-party transactions)
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
Can I get a UAE residency visa with a RAK Offshore company?
No, you can’t. RAK Offshore (RAK ICC) companies are set up as non-resident entities, so they don’t give you the right to live or work in the UAE. If you want a residency visa, you’ll need to look at Free Zone or Mainland companies instead.
Can I open a bank account in Dubai for my offshore company?
Yes, you can, but get ready for some serious checks. RAK ICC companies are allowed to open UAE corporate accounts, but by 2026, banks have tightened up their “Anti-Money Laundering” (AML) rules. You’ll have to show a clear business purpose, prove where the owners’ money comes from, and usually keep at least AED 100,000 in the account.
Do I need a physical office in the UAE?
No, you don’t. That’s actually one of the main perks of setting up a RAK Offshore company. Your company’s official address is the one used by your Registered Agent, which keeps your running costs way down.
Is my information public on the RAK ICC registry?
No. RAK ICC keeps things confidential. The registry does record the names of shareholders and directors for compliance, but the public can’t see this info. Only UAE authorities can access it, and only if there’s a specific legal reason.
Can my RAK Offshore company own property in Dubai?
Yes. RAK ICC companies are among the few offshore setups that can own freehold property in certain parts of Dubai, thanks to a deal with the Dubai Land Department (DLD). You’ll just need to get a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) from the RAK ICC registrar.
Does a RAK Offshore company pay the 9% UAE Corporate Tax?
Usually, no. Since RAK Offshore companies can’t do business inside the UAE, their international earnings generally fall outside the 9% UAE Corporate Tax. But please note, you still have to keep proper accounting records under the 2026 rules.
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Our team ensures your business setup is smooth, efficient, and compliant with local laws. Contact us today to discuss your project.
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