RAK ICC — RAK International Corporate Centre
RAK ICC is an offshore structure for holding, IP ownership, family wealth, and international structuring. Not suitable as a substitute for a true operating company in the UAE.
Should you choose RAK ICC?
RAK ICC is an offshore structure for holding, IP ownership, family wealth, and international structuring. Not suitable as a substitute for a true operating company in the UAE.
Who this is for: Offshore holding, foundations, cross-border structuring, family wealth
Key caution: Always verify current pricing, activity suitability, and banking realities before committing.
Best for
Offshore holding
Starting from
AED 10,000
Visas
Commonly not a visa-first structure
Office
Registered agent model; no physical office required
Timeline
5–10 business days
Banking
Plan extra KYC
Overview
RAK ICC, the RAK International Corporate Centre, is an offshore corporate registry in Ras Al Khaimah used mainly for holding, asset ownership, intellectual property ownership, and cross-border structuring rather than day-to-day operating business inside the UAE. It operates on a registered-agent model, which means companies are formed and maintained through a licensed agent rather than through a physical office or staff presence. It is commonly used for holding companies, special purpose vehicles, family wealth and succession planning, and international structuring where a clean, recognised offshore vehicle is the goal. Importantly, it is not a substitute for a true operating company in the UAE: it is commonly not a visa-first structure and does not provide the local trade access or visa sponsorship that an operating free-zone or mainland company offers. Banking depends heavily on the structure, its substance, and supporting documentation such as a clear purpose statement and source-of-funds evidence, and can be more involved precisely because it is offshore. Founders who need an operating business inside the UAE, local trade, or residence visas should look at an operating free zone instead. Where the goal is holding, IP, or international structuring, RAK ICC can be efficient, but the purpose should be genuine rather than a workaround. Compare it against ADGM for structuring needs, and confirm current pricing and requirements with a registered agent or the authority before committing.
Who it suits
This may apply when
- •International structuring needs
- •Family offices
- •SPV and holding purposes
May not be the best fit when
- •Operating businesses
- •Visa-dependent setups
- •Local UAE trade
Business activities
Activity availability may vary. Confirm with the authority for your specific activity.
Pricing & Packages
Standard
AED 10,000+ /yr
Includes
- Offshore registration
- Registered agent
Not included
- Visa
- Physical office
- UAE trade licence
Pricing is indicative. Last checked: March 2026. Always confirm current fees and inclusions directly.
Visa & office considerations
Visas
Commonly not a visa-first structure.
Office
Registered agent model; no physical office required.
Banking & KYC realities
Banking depends on structure, substance, and documentation. Not an operating company.
Setup process
- 1Engage registered agent
- 2Submit application
- 3Receive approval
- 4Pay fees
- 5Collect certificate
Common requirements
- Passport copy
- Business plan or purpose statement
- Source of funds documentation
Common mistakes to avoid
Compare RAK ICC with alternatives
| Criteria | RAK ICC | ADGM |
|---|---|---|
| Starting cost | AED 10,000 | Request quote |
| Ideal for | Offshore holding, foundations, cross-border structuring, family wealth | Regulated finance, fintech, funds, family offices, private wealth, holding structures, sophisticated governance |
| Visas | Commonly not a visa-first structure | Visas available through partner arrangements |
| Office | Registered agent model; no physical office required | Office required; co-working available |
| Timeline | 5–10 business days | ~10 business days |
| Banking | Banking depends on structure and substance | Strong regulatory reputation aids banking |
| Remote-first | Yes | No |
Frequently asked questions
Sources & methodology
Last checked: March 2026
This page is educational and not legal or tax advice. Fees, requirements, and authority policies can change. Always confirm the latest official requirements and get qualified advice for your specific situation.
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