Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland
Ras al Khaimah (RAK) mainland offers numerous benefits, including full foreign ownership, no income tax, and no territorial restrictions. Setting up a business in Ras al Khaimah is a structured and straightforward process. If you are a foreign investor or a national entrepreneur, it is one of the best business options for you.
Here’s what makes Ras Al Khaimah Mainland truly Special:
- Ras Al Khaimah has no corporate or income tax for most businesses. This helps companies save more money compared to many other countries.
- It costs less to start a business in RAK. For example, a trade license can start from around AED 8,500, which is cheaper than Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- RAK is close to major ports like Saqr Port, which is the largest bulk-handling port in the region. This makes it easy to import and export goods.
The emirate is famous for numerous sectors, including ceramics, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials. Many international and regional companies reside here, fostering a business-friendly environment.
Starting your Business Setup in Ras al Khaimah involves several steps, including license acquisition, lease agreement, and bank account opening. This guide outlines the complete process and offers insights on how to make it smoother.
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Types of Business Licenses in Ras Al Khaimah Mainland
Who Is It For?
Any Businesses engaged in buying, selling, and distributing products. You have to list the products your company will be dealing in. Get a general trading license if you have a wide range of products.
Examples of Businesses:
- Retail stores and wholesale distributors.
- E-commerce platforms managing physical goods.
- Import/export companies dealing in electronics, textiles, or consumer goods.
Who Is It For?
Individuals or groups offering specialized, knowledge-based services. This one is for professionals and experts in different sectors.
Examples of Businesses:
- Legal and accounting firms.
- Management and IT consultancy.
- Healthcare practitioners and clinics.
Who Is It For?
Businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, or assembling goods. This is a popular type of permit in the emirate.
Examples of Businesses:
- Factories producing furniture, machinery, or textiles.
- Food and beverage processing units.
- Assembly plants for electronic or automotive products.
Who Is It For?
Businesses involved in publishing, broadcasting, or advertising. It is great for those working in media production and communication.
Examples of Businesses:
- Advertising agencies and PR firms.
- TV, radio, and digital media studios.
- Publishing houses and bloggers.
Who Is It For?
This license is for businesses providing expert advice in specific fields. Perfect for professionals offering strategic, financial, technical, or creative guidance.
Examples of Businesses:
- Business and management consultants.
- Financial and investment advisors.
- Marketing, HR, and branding consultants
Top Selling Fujairah Mainland
Promotions
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 11,900.00
Save up to AED 1,785.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 17,900.00
Save up to AED 2,685.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 25,400.00
Save up to AED 3,810.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 23,900.00
Save up to AED 3,585.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 27,400.00
Save up to AED 4,110.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 25,900.00
Save up to AED 3,885.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 29,400.00
Save up to AED 4,410.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 31,400.00
Save up to AED 4,710.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 29,900.00
Save up to AED 4,485.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 33,400.00
Save up to AED 5,010.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 31,900.00
Save up to AED 4,785.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 35,400.00
Save up to AED 5,310.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 33,900.00
Save up to AED 5,085.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 37,400.00
Save up to AED 5,610.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 35,900.00
Save up to AED 5,385.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 39,400.00
Save up to AED 5,910.00
Executive Contains
Business Incorporation Starter Pack
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Employee from A to Z
- OR
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Dependents from A to Z
- Health Insurance Assistance
- VAT Registration – One Time Only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP assistance for visa application and Company incorporation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 37,900.00
Save up to AED 5,685.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 41,400.00
Save up to AED 6,210.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 39,900.00
Save up to AED 5,985.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 43,400.00
Save up to AED 6,510.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Process and Timeline
- 1Should be 18 years old and above
- 2Should not have any criminal records
- 3The business should be legally permissible
- 4Should be an individual, corporate or mixed of both
Required Documents
- Passport copies of all partners
- UAE visa or entry stamp copy
- 2–4 recent ID-size photos
- NOC from employer (if needed)
- Trade name reservation proof
- Initial approval from DED
- MOA, notarized in UAE
- AOA, if needed for setup
- Office lease or rental contract
- Local sponsor agreement
- Business plan (if required)
- POA for set-up representative
License Package Fees
Standard License – Zero Visa Package
Starts from
AED 11,900
Standard License – With Visa Package
Starts from
AED 17,900
Immigration Fees
Establishment Card – New
AED 2,000
Establishment Card – Renewal
AED 2,200
Visa Application Fees
Residence Visa – 3 years
AED 3,750
Additional AED 1,000 on the visa fee if applying for an Investor/Partner Visa and an AED 48,000 share capital is required.
Change Status
AED 1,600
Applicable if within the UAE application only.
Medical Test
Normal (48 hours) – AED 450
VIP (within 24 hrs) – AED 750
Emirates ID – 3 years
AED 375
Company Registration
Trade Name Approval
1 business day
Shareholder’s Security Approval
5-7 business days
Trade License Issuance
3-4 business days
Establishment Card Application
1 business day
Establishment Card Issuance
5-7 business daysResidence Visa Application
Electronic Visa Application
5-7 business daysClient Arrival (if outside the UAE) | Change Status (if within the UAE)
Depends on the client | 2-3 business daysMedical Test
1 business dayMedical Test Result Release
Normal - 2 business days | VIP - within the dayEmirates ID Typing
1 business day
Obtaining Health Insurance
Depends on the client | Mandatory if applying in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Visa Approval
5-7 business days
Emirates ID Biometrics & Photo Capturing
Approx. 15-20 business days from the date of Emirates ID typing
Emirates ID Issuance
5 business daysSteps to Get a Business License in Ras al Khaimah
Choose the set of activities your business will be involved in. Check the list of approved activities. This step determines the type of license you will have to acquire for company formation.
Legal structures offer different needs and different perks. Popular examples include LLC, sole proprietorship, and branch office. Select a structure that fits your business needs, ownership, and goals.
Reserve a unique trade name through the Department of Economic Development website or mobile app. The name must not be offensive to the norms of society.
Obtain initial endorsement from the Department of Economic Development. This serves as a no-objection certificate and paves the way for the rest of the process.
Prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) and other required documents for acceptance. Ensure the validity and correctness of each document.
Find a suitable office for your business operations. Finalize the lease agreement once you find a suitable pick. Popular options include executive offices, industrial facilities, and shared offices.
Depending on your commercial activity, additional permissions may be required from different departments or authorities to get started. Get those approvals if required.
Gather all the required documents and submit them along with the fee. Make sure that the submission is in time, or it can cause delays or fines.
Once your application is approved, you will receive your business license. Now, you can start your business operations in the market.
Start a commercial bank account to streamline the company’s financial processes and get the visas for shareholders and employees to start company operations.
Benefits of a Business Setup in RAK
Low setup cost
Tax-free income
100% ownership
Affordable permits
Cheap office rent
Access to UAE market
No import duty
Strong legal system
Skilled workforce
Near major ports
Service Highlights for Business Setup
Cost Structure
Establishing a company setup in Ras al Khaimah can cost you around 8,500 AED to 30,000 AED, depending on your requirements, activities, location, and several other factors. Contact IBG Consultancy for an exact quote.
Business Terms
Several terms and conditions by authorities have to be followed, including establishing a physical office, registration of approved activities, special approvals, and a minimum of one shareholder and one manager policy.
Regulatory Services
The Department of Economic Development is known for its streamlined and helpful regulatory services, including license updating, renewal, and company liquidation. It streamlines the business regulation.
Types of Business Entities in RAK Mainland
LLC
A Limited Liability Company requires 2–50 shareholders, offering limited liability for their share in capital. Foreign ownership is allowed without a local sponsor.
Perfect For: Foreign investors, startups, and small-to-medium enterprises.
Partnership Company
A partnership company allows ownership between two or more UAE nationals. They will be jointly liable based on their shares. This structure is not available for foreign investors.
Perfect For: UAE nationals looking to jointly invest in local businesses.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is owned by a single individual. Foreign owners require a UAE national as a local service agent to start a new company, but GCC and UAE citizens are exempt.
Perfect For: Professionals offering services like consultancy or freelance work.
Public/Private Shareholding
Under this structure, the share capital is divided into tradable shares. Liability is limited to share capital. Founding members sign the memorandum and articles of association.
Perfect For: Large-scale projects, companies planning IPOs, or seeking big investments.
Branch Companies
This structure allows local and foreign companies to open branches in Ras al Khaimah. These branches are an extension of the parent company and don’t require a different identity.
Perfect For: Companies looking to expand their business in the United Arab Emirates.
PJSC
A Private Joint Stock Company requires at least 51% ownership by UAE nationals. Liability is limited, and you can conduct various commercial and industrial activities.
Perfect For: Large-scale businesses and foreign investors in select industries.
Simplify Company Formation in Ras al Khaimah with IBG Consulting
IBG Consultancy provides business owners, entrepreneurs, and foreign investors with smooth company formation in the emirate of Ras al Khaimah. It offers customizable visa packages, business consultants with years of experience in the industry, and personalized guidelines. Get in touch to start your business formation in Ras al Khaimah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a business in Ras al Khamiah without relocating to the UAE?
Yes, you can start the process for company formation remotely through authorized agents or business establishment services. However, certain steps, like opening a corporate bank account or signing legal documents, may require your physical presence.
How does RAK compare to Dubai for company formation?
While Dubai is a global business hub, Ras al Khaimah stands out for its cost-effectiveness and flexibility. RAK business setup offers lower operational costs, minimal tax obligations, and access to similar business opportunities as Dubai.
What is the difference between mainland and RAK free zone companies?
Mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the country but require office space and may need a local sponsor. RAK free zone companies, on the other hand, enjoy 100% foreign ownership, and tax benefits, and are suitable for businesses focusing on international trade or online operations.
Can a company in Ras Al Khaimah trade in other emirates or GCC countries?
Yes, companies in RAK can trade freely across the country and GCC, including Oman, without restrictions. However, free trade zone companies may need additional authorization to conduct business in mainland markets.
What types of commercial benefits most from a RAK business setup?
Whether you are in trading, manufacturing, or professional services, business in RAK is highly versatile. Industries such as logistics, tourism, healthcare, and consultancy thrive here due to the emirate’s supportive environment and business opportunities.
Is business registration in RAK suitable for startups?
Yes, business registration in RAK is ideal for startups due to its affordable license cost, flexible structures, and minimal red tape. Entrepreneurs also benefit from access to business setup services tailored for small and medium enterprises.
Can I change my business location after company registration in RAK?
Yes, you can relocate your business location within the mainland or from a free zone. However, this requires approvals and updates to your company registration details with the authorities.
What is the role of the nature of the business in selecting the license type?
The nature of the business determines the type of license you need, such as trading, professional, or industrial. It also impacts operational requirements like office space or equipment for companies in the UAE.
How long does it take to complete company formation in RAK?
The timeframe for company formation varies based on your business setup type and activity. Mainland setups typically take 1–2 weeks, while free zone companies may be quicker.
Does RAK offer any benefits for companies looking to expand internationally?
Yes, ras al khaimah business provides strategic access to markets in the country, GCC, and neighboring countries like Oman. With its free trade zone and international connectivity, RAK is perfect for global operations.
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