Question 1

What is RAKEFZ.com?

Accepted Answer

RAKEFZ.com is the only online company-formation portal in Ras Al Khaimah that covers every licence type under one umbrella: free zone, offshore and mainland. It also extends beyond RAK to other emirates, including Dubai, Ajman and Sharjah. It is run by a licensed company-formation agent based in RAK, with services overseen by KAI Kata FZE. Through one account you can compare 9 jurisdictions (RAKEZ, RAK ICC, Innovation City, RAK Maritime City, RAK Mainland, IFZA, DMCC, Ajman Free Zone and SPC), see live prices, apply and verify online, pay, and track your licence, visas and bank introduction with a named case officer.

Question 2

Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Ras Al Khaimah?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Free-zone companies (RAKEZ, Innovation City, RAK Maritime City) and offshore RAK ICC companies can be 100% foreign-owned. Since 2021, most mainland activities can also be 100% foreign-owned; a small number of strategic activities still have ownership rules.

Question 3

Can I set up a company in RAK without visiting the UAE?

Accepted Answer

For most free-zone and offshore companies, yes. Applications, identity checks, signatures and payment are done online. You usually only need to come to the UAE if you want a residence visa, for the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics.

Question 4

What is the difference between free zone, offshore and mainland?

Accepted Answer

A free-zone company is licensed by a free-zone authority, can get visas and an office, and mainly trades outside the UAE or with other free-zone firms. An offshore company (RAK ICC) is for holding assets and international business, with no UAE office or visas. A mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development and can trade anywhere in the UAE, including with government.

Question 5

How long does it take to set up a company in RAK?

Accepted Answer

Most free-zone licences are issued in 5–7 working days once documents are complete. RAK ICC companies can be faster. Mainland licences depend on the activity and any external approvals. Visas and bank accounts take further time after the licence.

Question 6

Do I need a local sponsor or partner?

Accepted Answer

Not for free-zone or offshore companies. For most mainland activities a local partner is no longer required either. Some professional and regulated activities have specific rules, which we check during your application.

Question 7

What is the minimum share capital?

Accepted Answer

Most RAK free-zone companies do not require the share capital to be paid in or shown in a bank account at setup. The amount stated in your Memorandum of Association is typically a nominal figure such as AED 10,000. Certain regulated activities have higher requirements.

Question 8

Can I run my company from outside the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many owners manage their RAK company from abroad. If you need a UAE residence visa you will have to visit periodically to keep it valid, and banks may ask about your business presence.

Question 9

Which RAK zone is right for my business?

Accepted Answer

RAKEZ suits trading, services and industrial businesses. Innovation City suits technology, Web3, AI and gaming. RAK ICC suits holding companies, foundations and asset protection. RAK Maritime City suits shipping and marine services. RAK Mainland suits businesses that sell directly to UAE customers or bid for government work.

Question 10

What is RAKEZ?

Accepted Answer

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone is the emirate’s main free zone, covering more than 50 sectors. It offers flexi-desks, serviced and standard offices, warehouses and industrial land, with visa quotas linked to the facility you choose.

Question 11

What is Innovation City?

Accepted Answer

Innovation City is a Ras Al Khaimah free zone focused on the digital economy: Web3 and virtual assets, artificial intelligence, gaming, robotics and health technology. Packages run from no-visa licences to options with up to four visas.

Question 12

What is RAK ICC?

Accepted Answer

RAK International Corporate Centre is the emirate’s offshore corporate registry. It registers international business companies and foundations used for holding, investment, asset protection and succession planning. RAK ICC entities cannot trade inside the UAE or sponsor visas.

Question 13

What is RAK Maritime City?

Accepted Answer

RAK Maritime City is a free zone next to a deep-water port, built for shipping, ship management, marine services, logistics and light industry. Prices depend on the facility and are quoted per project.

Question 14

Should I choose a RAK zone or a Dubai zone like IFZA or DMCC?

Accepted Answer

RAK zones are usually lower cost and faster, and suit most international trading and service businesses. A Dubai address can matter for some clients, banks or industries. RAKEFZ offers RAKEZ, RAK ICC, Innovation City, IFZA, DMCC, Ajman Free Zone and SPC, and can compare them for your case.

Question 15

Can I change zone later?

Accepted Answer

You cannot move a company between authorities. You would set up a new company in the new zone and transfer the business, then close or keep the old one. Choosing the right zone at the start avoids this cost.

Question 16

Can a free-zone company sell to customers in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

A free-zone company can provide services to UAE clients and invoice them in most cases. Selling physical goods into the UAE mainland usually needs a local distributor or a mainland licence. We check the rules for your specific activity.

Question 17

How much does it cost to set up a company in RAK?

Accepted Answer

As of October 2026, RAK ICC companies start at AED 3,250, RAKEZ from AED 6,010 and Innovation City from AED 6,600, before the RAKEFZ service fee. The price rises with the number of visas and the facility. See the pricing page for every zone, visa count and licence term.

Question 18

What is included in the zone package price?

Accepted Answer

Usually the licence, registration and the facility (such as a flexi-desk or co-working space) for the chosen term. Some zones include visa costs and others charge them separately. Each zone’s notes on our pricing page list what is included.

Question 19

Are there hidden costs?

Accepted Answer

Your quote shows the zone price, our service fee and any extras before you pay. Costs that depend on you, such as visa medicals, document attestation or translation, are listed separately so you can see them up front.

Question 20

Is it cheaper to take a multi-year licence?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Most zones offer lower per-year prices for 2-, 3- or 5-year licences, and you avoid renewal admin. The pricing page shows the per-year cost for each term.

Question 21

How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

At the last step of the online application, by card (with 3-D Secure) or by bank transfer with upload of the transfer receipt. We file with the authority once payment clears.

Question 22

Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

If your application is declined before we file with the authority, our service fee is refunded in line with our terms. Government fees already paid to an authority are usually non-refundable. Your case officer explains this before filing.

Question 23

What is the RAKEFZ service fee?

Accepted Answer

A flat fee on top of the zone price: Essential AED 2,900, Managed AED 5,900 or Concierge AED 12,000, depending on how much we handle for you, from filing only up to visas, banking and holding structures.

Question 24

What documents do I need to set up a free-zone company?

Accepted Answer

Your proposed activity, three proposed company names, a full good-quality passport copy and a white-background passport photo for each shareholder, each shareholder’s mobile number, email and residential address, the licence validity you want, and the number of shareholders and their percentages.

Question 25

Do my documents need to be attested?

Accepted Answer

For individual shareholders in most free zones, a clear passport copy is enough. Corporate shareholders usually need attested company documents from their home country. Some zones and banks ask for extra documents for certain nationalities or activities.

Question 26

Why do you need a selfie check?

Accepted Answer

UAE anti-money-laundering rules require us to verify the identity of every shareholder and beneficial owner. A short selfie liveness check matches you to your passport online, so you do not need to visit an office.

Question 27

Do you need proof of address?

Accepted Answer

For RAK ICC companies and Concierge clients, yes: a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months. For most free-zone companies the residential address you enter is enough.

Question 28

What is source of funds and when is it needed?

Accepted Answer

It is a short explanation, with supporting evidence, of where the money behind the company comes from, such as a business sale or savings. It is required for RAK ICC entities, family-office structures and some higher-risk activities.

Question 29

Is my data secure?

Accepted Answer

Documents are encrypted, stored in the UAE region and only visible to your case officer and our compliance team. We keep them only as long as UAE regulations require.

Question 30

What happens if a document is rejected?

Accepted Answer

Your case officer marks the document with the exact reason, for example a photo background that is not white or a bill older than three months, and adds a note. You see it in your portal and can upload a new version straight away.

Question 31

What are the rules for company names in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

Names cannot include offensive or religious terms, names of authorities or governments, or well-known brands you do not own, and cannot match an existing company. Using a personal name usually requires that person to be a shareholder.

Question 32

Why do you ask for three names?

Accepted Answer

If your first choice is already registered or not approved, the authority moves to the next one without delaying your application.

Question 33

What legal suffix will my company have?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the zone and structure: FZ-LLC or FZE for free-zone companies, Ltd for RAK ICC companies, LLC for mainland companies, FZCO for IFZA and DMCC for DMCC companies. We add it automatically.

Question 34

How many business activities can I have?

Accepted Answer

Many packages allow several related activities on one licence; RAKEZ Pro packages allow up to 10. Some activities cannot be combined, and regulated activities need extra approvals.

Question 35

Can I add activities later?

Accepted Answer

Yes, usually for an amendment fee, provided the new activity fits your licence type and facility. Your case officer can raise the request from your portal.

Question 36

Which activities need special approval?

Accepted Answer

Examples include financial services, virtual assets, healthcare, education, food, and security. These may need approval from a regulator before or after the licence is issued, which adds time and cost.

Question 37

Can I get a UAE residence visa through my RAK company?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through a free-zone or mainland company with a visa allocation. Offshore RAK ICC companies cannot sponsor visas. The number of visas depends on your package and office type.

Question 38

How long does a residence visa take?

Accepted Answer

Usually two to three weeks after your licence: entry permit, status change or entry to the UAE, medical test, Emirates ID biometrics and the visa stamp. You need to be in the UAE for the medical and biometrics.

Question 39

How long is a UAE residence visa valid?

Accepted Answer

Investor and employment visas through a company are typically issued for two years and then renewed. Some zones and categories offer longer terms.

Question 40

Can I sponsor my family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you hold a residence visa and meet the salary or income requirement, you can usually sponsor your spouse and children.

Question 41

Do I have to live in the UAE to keep my visa?

Accepted Answer

You need to enter the UAE at least once within a set period to keep a standard residence visa active; long absences can cancel it. Golden Visa holders have more flexibility.

Question 42

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

Accepted Answer

A long-term residence visa of up to 10 years for categories such as investors, entrepreneurs and skilled professionals who meet specific criteria. We can check whether you qualify once your company is set up.

Question 43

Can my RAK company open a UAE bank account?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Free-zone, mainland and many RAK ICC companies can open UAE corporate accounts. Banks run their own checks, so approval is not guaranteed, but a well-prepared application makes a big difference.

Question 44

How long does it take to open a corporate bank account?

Accepted Answer

Usually several weeks after the licence, depending on the bank, your activity and your nationality. Banks often want to meet a signatory, in person or by video.

Question 45

What do banks ask for?

Accepted Answer

Typically the company documents, passports and visas of shareholders, a business plan or description, expected transactions, and proof of your experience or source of funds. We prepare this pack with you.

Question 46

Do I need a residence visa to open an account?

Accepted Answer

Not always, but many banks prefer at least one signatory with a UAE residence visa. Some digital banks and certain banks for RAK ICC entities accept non-resident owners.

Question 47

Do you guarantee a bank account?

Accepted Answer

No agent can guarantee a bank account, as the decision belongs to the bank. Managed and Concierge clients get introductions to partner banks and help preparing the application.

Question 48

Is there personal income tax in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

No. The UAE does not tax individuals’ salaries or personal investment income.

Question 49

Do UAE companies pay corporate tax?

Accepted Answer

Yes, since June 2023. The standard rate is 9% on taxable profit above AED 375,000, with 0% below that. Every company must register with the Federal Tax Authority and file an annual return, even if no tax is due.

Question 50

Do free-zone companies pay corporate tax?

Accepted Answer

A free-zone company that meets the conditions to be a Qualifying Free Zone Person pays 0% on qualifying income and 9% on other income. Conditions include having adequate substance in the free zone and keeping audited accounts.

Question 51

When do I need to register for VAT?

Accepted Answer

VAT is 5%. Registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 over 12 months, and optional from AED 187,500. Many businesses that only serve customers abroad still register to recover VAT on costs.

Question 52

What is the UBO register?

Accepted Answer

Every UAE company must record its ultimate beneficial owners, meaning anyone who owns or controls 25% or more, and file this with its registrar. RAK ICC keeps this register private; it is not open to the public.

Question 53

Do I need to keep accounts and get them audited?

Accepted Answer

All companies must keep accounting records for at least seven years. Many free zones require audited annual accounts for licence renewal, and Qualifying Free Zone Persons must have audited financial statements.

Question 54

Are economic substance (ESR) reports still required?

Accepted Answer

No. The UAE economic substance regulations were repealed for financial periods starting after 31 December 2022. Substance still matters for the free-zone corporate tax regime and for banks.

Question 55

What can a RAK ICC company be used for?

Accepted Answer

Holding shares in other companies, owning investments and intellectual property, holding approved real estate, acting as a special purpose vehicle, and international trading that does not take place inside the UAE.

Question 56

What does a RAK ICC company cost?

Accepted Answer

As of October 2026, incorporation starts at AED 3,250, with annual renewal at AED 3,950. Registered agent and our service fee are added. Multi-year terms are available.

Question 57

Can a RAK ICC company own property in the UAE?

Accepted Answer

RAK ICC companies can own property in approved freehold areas, including parts of Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, subject to the land department’s rules. We confirm eligibility for the specific property.

Question 58

What is a RAK ICC foundation?

Accepted Answer

A separate legal entity without shareholders, governed by a charter and a council, that holds assets for beneficiaries or a purpose. Families use it for succession planning, asset protection and philanthropy.

Question 59

Is a RAK ICC company confidential?

Accepted Answer

Shareholder and beneficial owner details are filed with RAK ICC through a registered agent and are not on a public register. They are available to UAE authorities on request.

Question 60

Do I need a registered agent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every RAK ICC entity must appoint an approved registered agent. RAKEFZ handles this as part of incorporation and annual renewal.

Question 61

When should I choose a RAK mainland company?

Accepted Answer

When you want to sell goods or services directly to customers across the UAE without a distributor, open shops or branches in the UAE, or bid for government contracts.

Question 62

How much does a RAK mainland licence cost?

Accepted Answer

Indicatively AED 10,000–20,000 per year for the trade licence plus registration, before office rent and visas. RAK mainland prices depend on the activity and premises, so we quote each case.

Question 63

Do I need an office for a mainland company?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a mainland company needs a physical premises with a registered tenancy contract (Ejari or the RAK equivalent). The size of the premises affects how many visas you can get.

Question 64

Can I convert a free-zone company to mainland?

Accepted Answer

You cannot convert directly, but you can open a mainland branch of your free-zone company or set up a separate mainland company. We advise on the best option for your activity.

Everything about setting up a company in Ras Al Khaimah

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