🇦🇪 Ras Al Khaimah (RAK ICC, UAE)Company Establishment/Offshore Registration Highlights
RAK ICC is the international company (offshore) registration authority in Ras Al Khaimah, commonly used for holding and asset management. As of 2023, the UAE has implemented a federal corporate tax (9% above a certain threshold); pure offshore companies without a UAE permanent establishment and without UAE-source income are generally not subject to UAE taxation on foreign income. Eligible entities may also qualify for free zone benefits. Rules are evolving, please refer to the latest announcements from UAE authorities (FTA/RAK ICC).
| Common Company Types | International Company (RAK ICC Offshore Company) |
|---|---|
| Corporate income tax | UAE corporate tax: 0% for income below AED 375,000, 9% for income above; pure offshore income is generally not taxed. |
| Estimated establishment costs | Approximately US$1,500–US$3,500 |
| Annual maintenance | Annual fee, registered agent, registered address; corporate tax registration/reporting may be required depending on circumstances. |
| Substance/Reporting Requirements | UBO, CRS; corporate tax registration; free zone benefits are subject to qualification and substance |
| Suitable for purpose | Holding, Asset Management, Group Structure |
| Bank account opening | UAE account opening reviews are stringent, requiring comprehensive KYC. |
| Recent Changes | Starting in 2023, a federal corporate tax of 9% will be implemented; ESR reporting will no longer be required for certain years. |
Key considerations
- RAK ICC companies are not automatically exempt from corporate tax; taxation depends on the presence of a permanent establishment, source of income, and qualification assessment.
- To qualify for the 0% benefit as a 'Qualified Free Trade Zone Person', conditions regarding qualified income and sufficient substance must be met.
- Home country CFC/substance taxation rules may still apply; comprehensive planning is essential.
General Process
- Establish an international company and register UBO through a RAK ICC registered agent.
- Assess corporate tax registration and reporting obligations.
- If applicable, arrange qualified income and substance.
- Open a bank account and pay annual fees to maintain it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do RAK ICC offshore companies have to pay the UAE 9% corporate tax?
It depends on the circumstances. A pure offshore company without a permanent establishment in the UAE and without UAE-sourced income is generally not taxed on foreign income; however, there may still be registration obligations, and eligibility must be confirmed according to FTA regulations.
Can RAK ICC companies operate in Dubai?
RAK ICC is an offshore structure, and actual operations within the UAE typically require the establishment of a separate free zone or local company; mixed use may affect tax and licensing determinations, and professional consultation is advisable.
Official sources：RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) · Data date：2026-06。This page serves as a neutral compilation of publicly available information for reference only, notTax / LegalRecommendations are based on the latest official announcements.