Ras Al Khaimah Mainland Company Formation

Ras Al Khaimah Mainland is known for its liberal government policies and an excellent business environment. These factors make it an attractive place for new businesses.

Xpert Advisory will help you on how to form your company efficiently in RAK Mainland. We’ll explain everything from defining your business scope to acquiring the necessary licenses.

Business Activities in RAK Mainland 

In RAK Mainland, numerous business entities indulge in an extensive range of activities and that too across different sectors. Certain common types of business opportunities or business setup services permitted in the RAK Mainland include:

  • Trading

  • Manufacturing

  • Retail

  • Construction

  • Hospitality

  • Healthcare

  • Consultancy Services

  • Education

  • Transportation

  • Logistics

  • Real Estate

  • IT Services

  • Financial Services

  • Media and Advertising

  • Legal Services

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Key Takeaways

Types of Licenses Available for Business Setup in RAK Mainland

RAK (Ras Al Khaimah) offers various kinds of business licenses that are available for the promotion of all types of business ventures. It is highly recommended to select the appropriate license depends on the type of business and or objectives you intend to accomplish. Here’s a breakdown of the options to help you decide: 

Commercial Trade License

The Commercial Trade License in RAK is intended for businesses engaged in buying and selling goods, including retail stores, wholesalers, distributors, import-export businesses, and e-commerce platforms. This business can use this license to engage in trading activities whether regional or global, and prompt the business to adhere to regulations concerning trading and protection of consumers.

Professional Trade License

The Professional Trade License is designated for the specialized business service sector which is the consultancy, legal, accounting, education and health care sector. This license suggests that only the sole business owner or the employee must possess certain qualification or professional credential to operate the business or work in the business respectively, thus making sure that the entity in business has had the right quality assurance in respect to the profession.

Industrial Trade License

An Industrial Trade License is required for such businesses as manufacturing, processing, and production businesses including the food industry, textile industry and manufacturers of machinery. Because of the kind of activities that are conducted under this license, it is usual to pay additional health, safety and environment standards in order to be in consonance with the RAK laws.

Advantages of Company Registration in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland

Ras Al Khaimah stands as one of the most developed economies among the Emirates, attracting an influx of international investors. Ras Al Khaimah offers a prime location for businesses, connecting Asia and Europe. Companies also gain tax benefits, boosting profits.

Benefit from Strategic Location in RAK

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) boasts a prime spot between the Arabian Gulf and the Hajjar Mountains. Proximity to Dubai, only 45 minutes away, is a major plus for businesses. This location provides access to key transport hubs like seaports, airports, and highways.

This strategic position helps companies easily ship goods and connect with global markets. RAK’s geographical advantages also make it attractive for various industries like mining and minerals exploration.The easy access to major trade routes boosts business growth in this region.

Enjoy Taxation Benefits in Ras Al Khaimah

RAK offers low corporate taxes for businesses. Companies can keep 100% of their profits and capital. There are no import or export duties, which reduces costs.

This makes RAK an attractive place for both local and international business companies. Next, explore how to access Free Trade Zones in RAK.

Access Free Trade Zones in RAK

These tax benefits make Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) a great place for business. Now, let’s look at Free Trade Zones in RAK. These zones offer many advantages.

Free zones in RAK allow duty-free operations. Businesses save money by not paying certain taxes.There are no foreign exchange controls, which facilitates international trade relations. Operating costs are also lower here.

RAK has two main types of free zone companies: Free Zone Establishment (FZE) and Free Zone Company (FZCO). FZE is for single owners; FZCO is for more than one shareholder. Companies can swiftly proceed to access warehousing and office space within these zones.

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Select the Appropriate Business Structure for RAK Mainland

Choosing the right business or corporate structure when setting up your business is vital, and a consultant or reputable consultancy firm can assist with the necessary business setup services.It affects your legal, financial, and operational affairs in Ras Al Khaimah.

Branch Office in RAK

Branch Office in RAK is an extended version of a parent company’s functions, enabling the company to conduct commercial operations on its own. In contrast to a representative office, a branch may engage in business and make profits within RAK provided that it undertakes these activities by exercising the business of the head office. It is thus suitable for commercial entities that wish to increase the physical reach and clientele base within RAK while being under the exclusive control of the parent company.

Forming a Representative Office in RAK

In RAK, foreign companies are limited by a representative office aimed at the advertisement of products and services without entering the local market commerce. The primary purpose of a representative office is to engage in marketing, socialising, and client acquaintance, so it is a suitable form of market entry for firms that are yet to fully commit significant capital or time to the UAE market. It is simple for foreign firms to know market prospects and interact with other players in the industry.

Private Shareholding Company in Ras Al Khaimah

Private shareholding companies suit medium-sized enterprises. These companies need fewer shareholders than public ones. This makes them ideal for family businesses or close-knit groups.
Create a private shareholding company to keep financial details private—with no obligation to disclose these publicly. Your business can enjoy many benefits, including RAK's strategic location and tax advantages.

Partnership Company Formation in RAK

A Partnership Company in RAK is an ideal structure for businesses where two or more individuals or legal entities share ownership, resources, and responsibilities. This setup means the partners contribute their capital, talent, and experience, making it easier for the partners to manage and develop the business. Every partner participates in management decisions and revenue and loss distribution, which creates a solid business framework in a partnership organization.

Start a Public Shareholding Company in RAK

Starting a Public Shareholding Company in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) requires at least 10 shareholders. This type of company suits large businesses aiming to raise capital by issuing shares to the public.It can attract investors from both inside and outside the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Registering involves several steps, including getting initial approvals and drafting the Memorandum of Association. After that, you need to acquire a trade license for RAK Mainland.This structure offers benefits like tax exemptions and access to free trade zones within the emirate.

Establish a Joint Venture in Ras Al Khaimah

A joint venture in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) involves two or more parties pooling resources without a licensing need. This option suits sectors like construction and consultancy. Each party can bring different skills, experiences, or assets to the table.You also share risks and rewards with your partners.
You need a contract that details the terms of cooperation. Define each partner’s role clearly. This helps avoid future disputes. A local sponsor may be required under certain circumstances, adding another layer of partnership within the Ras Al Khaimah Mainland business environment.

Form a Limited Liability Company in RAK

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Ras Al Khaimah is simple. You need 2 to 50 shareholders for an LLC. Unlike other places, there is no capital requirement for its formation.
First, deposit the capital in a UAE bank. Then get initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). Draft and notarize the Memorandum of Association. After that, acquire your trade license. This allows you to operate legally. Enjoy benefits like 100% repatriation of profits and capital with your RAK mainland company setup.

Registration Steps for Your Ras Al Khaimah Mainland Company Formation

You need to follow specific steps to register a company in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland. First, obtain initial approvals and then prepare the necessary documents for your business.

Secure Initial Approvals for RAK Business

Initial approval for RAK business costs AED 110. This fee covers the evaluation of your business activity and trade name. Complete an application form to begin this process.

Submit all required documents and pay the necessary fees. Approval from the government of Ras Al Khaimah is needed before moving forward. This step ensures your plans align with local market regulations in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland.

Follow these rules, so you can move on to drafting your Memorandum of Association next!

Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association in Ras Al Khaimah

Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) to outline your company’s goals and shareholder details. Use Legal Translation Services, which cost AED 1,280. The notarization of the MOA will cost you AED 960.Notarize the document to make it legally binding.

The MOA is crucial for securing business licenses in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland. This step ensures compliance with licensing requirements. Always ensure all information is accurate and complete before notarizing the MOA.

Acquire Trade Licensing for RAK Mainland

After notarizing the Memorandum of Association, focus on obtaining a trade license. First, reserve your trade name. This process costs AED 610. It’s important to choose a unique and appropriate name that fits your business scope.

Next, submit the necessary documents and fees for licensing. The total cost for licensing and incorporation is AED 7,000. Expect this step to take about 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, make sure all paperwork is complete to avoid delays in approval.

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RAK Mainland Company Formation refers to business setup in Ras Al Khaimah region of the UAE, offering benefits like strategic geographic location and access to developed economies for investments.

In RAK, forming a joint venture company involves partnering with local Emirati entities or international businesses, allowing shared ownership and combined resources for flexible and efficient operations.

Yes, companies in Ras Al Khaimah can benefit from double taxation treaties and exemptions on value-added tax and custom duty, making it favorable for SMEs and larger ventures.

Businesses can choose from various structures such as LLCs (Limited Liability Companies), offshore companies, public joint-stock companies, or even international business companies based on their needs.

Yes! Forming a company within the RAK Free Trade Zone allows you to establish warehouses along with enjoying benefits like reduced customs duties and streamlined licensing processes.

DISCLAIMER – 
This content is for informational purposes only and provided “as is.” We make no guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the information. Any reliance on it is at your own risk. We are not responsible for any losses or damages resulting from its use.
Fees and costs mentioned are for reference only, subject to change, and may vary based on individual circumstances.