Registering a company in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Known for its strategic location, favorable business environment, and streamlined registration process, RAK offers numerous benefits for both local and international businesses. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to register a company in RAK, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Table of Contents

Understanding RAK’s Business Environment

RAK is renowned for its business-friendly policies, which include 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and income taxes, and full repatriation of profits. Moreover, the emirate provides a range of business setup options, including Free Zone and Mainland companies, catering to various business needs.

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Choose Your Business Activity

Firstly, you need to decide on the nature of your business activity. RAK offers a broad spectrum of permissible activities, from trading and manufacturing to consulting and service-based businesses. It’s crucial to select an activity that aligns with your business goals and adheres to RAK’s regulatory framework.

Select the Right Jurisdiction

RAK has two primary jurisdictions for company formation: RAK Free Trade Zone (RAKEZ) and the Mainland.

RAKEZ: Ideal for businesses seeking tax benefits, full ownership, and simplified setup procedures. RAKEZ offers various licenses, including commercial, educational, media, and industrial licenses.
Mainland: Suitable for businesses aiming to operate directly in the local market with a physical presence. Mainland companies require a local sponsor or service agent for certain activities.

Choose a Legal Structure

The next step involves selecting an appropriate legal structure for your business. Common structures include:

Limited Liability Company (LLC): Popular for both Free Zone and Mainland setups.
Branch Office: Allows existing companies to expand their operations into RAK.
Representative Office: Suitable for companies aiming to conduct market research or promotional activities without engaging in commercial operations.

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Reserve Your Trade Name

Your company needs a unique trade name, reflecting its identity and complying with RAK’s naming conventions. The trade name must not include any offensive or religious terms and should be approved by the RAK Economic Department (RAK DED).

Prepare and Submit Required Documents

To register your company, gather and submit the necessary documents. Typically, these include:

Completed application form
Passport copies of shareholders and managers
Proof of address
No-objection certificate (NOC) if applicable
Business plan for certain activities

Ensure all documents are accurately prepared to avoid delays.

Apply for Initial Approval

Submit your documents to the RAK DED or RAKEZ to obtain initial approval. This step verifies the feasibility of your business activity and compliance with RAK’s regulations. Initial approval usually takes a few days.

Lease Office Space

Depending on your business requirements, you need to lease an office space. RAKEZ offers flexible office solutions, including flexi desks, executive offices, and warehouses. For Mainland companies, securing a physical office is mandatory.

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Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The company’s ownership, organizational structure, and operating policies are described in the MOA. It must be notarized and signed by all shareholders. For Free Zone companies, RAKEZ assists in drafting the MOA, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Obtain Necessary Licenses

Based on your business activity and jurisdiction, apply for the relevant licenses. Common licenses include:

Commercial License: For trading and commercial activities.
Service License: For service-oriented businesses.
Industrial License: For manufacturing and industrial activities.
Freelance Permit: For individual professionals.

The licensing authority reviews your application and grants the license upon approval.

Register with Relevant Authorities

Once you have your license, register your company with the RAK Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This registration is essential for legal recognition and facilitates access to various business services.

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Open a Corporate Bank Account

A corporate bank account is necessary for managing your business finances. Choose a reputable bank in RAK, providing the required documentation, including your trade license, MOA, and identification proofs.

Hire Employees and Apply for Visas

If your business requires hiring employees, apply for their visas through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in RAK. Ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations regarding employment contracts and work conditions.

Comply with Regulatory Obligations

Finally, ensure your company adheres to RAK’s ongoing regulatory obligations. This includes:

Renewing Licenses: Annually renewing your trade license and other permits.
Maintaining Accounting Records: Keeping accurate financial records and conducting audits if required.
Filing Taxes: While RAK offers tax exemptions, it’s essential to stay updated on any changes in tax regulations.

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Leverage Business Support Services

RAK provides extensive business support services to assist companies in their growth journey. Utilize services such as business incubators, networking events, and advisory support offered by RAKEZ and other entities.

Call +971 4 240 6939 to Register Company in RAK

Registering a company in RAK is a strategic move for entrepreneurs seeking a favorable business environment and robust growth opportunities. By following the outlined steps, you can navigate the registration process efficiently, ensuring your business is set up for success. With its advantageous location, economic stability, and supportive regulatory framework, RAK is an ideal destination for establishing your business in the UAE.