If you are wondering how global investors and entrepreneurs manage their international freedom and protect their wealth, you have come to the right place. The answer is Offshore Companies. In this guide, you will learn the process to set up an offshore company in UAE and why RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is one of the most affordable and secure options among most offshore companies options.
Why set up an Offshore Company in UAE?
The UAE is amongst the top tax-friendly countries. It offers you the most stable and transparent business hubs in the world. Having an Offshore Company means:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Zero corporate tax and dividend tax
- Full privacy of shareholders and directors
- Remote registration (you don’t need to visit the UAE)
- International legitimacy, since the UAE is not a “blacklisted” tax haven
What is RAK ICC?
RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is the UAE’s official offshore company registry. It is located in Ras Al Khaimah. In simple words, RAK ICC is government-owned, fully compliant with international laws, and whitelisted by the EU Council.
Unlike older “offshore zones” in other countries, RAK ICC meets all Economic Substance Regulations (ESR). Thus, making it one of the few legitimate offshore jurisdictions globally.
Furthermore, you can register your offshore company through E-Startup and the entire process can be completed online within 48 hours.
Offshore Company Registration Types under RAK ICC
| Type of Company | Ideal For |
| Limited by Shares | General business, holding, or investment company |
| Limited by Guarantee | Non-profit or foundation-style entity |
| Unlimited Company | Less common; for high-risk structures |
| Foundation | Wealth and inheritance planning |
| Restricted Purpose Company | Single-purpose entities like real estate holding |
| Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC) | Multi-asset management and family offices |
What is Segregated Portfolio Advantage?
A Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC) under Offshore Company Registration lets you create multiple “compartments” within one legal entity.
Each compartment (or portfolio) holds separate assets and liabilities.
For example:
- Portfolio 1 → U.S. stock investments
- Portfolio 2 → Real estate in Europe
- Portfolio 3 → Crypto or tech startups
Losses in one don’t affect the others and therefore it is perfect for family offices, private equity funds, and multi-investment businesses.
Major Benefits of RAK ICC Offshore Company Setup
| Feature | Benefit |
| Low Cost | Starts from AED 3,600, among the cheapest in UAE |
| Quick Registration | Setup in under 48 hours |
| No Minimum Capital | You can register with zero paid-up capital |
| 100% Foreign Ownership | No local partner needed |
| No Office Requirement | Registered agent address is enough |
| Zero Corporate Tax | Full tax exemption on income, dividends, and capital gains |
| High Privacy | Shareholders and directors not shown publicly |
Privacy and Confidentiality
Unlike DIFC and ADGM, RAK ICC does not have a public register. That means, only your registered agent and government officials have access to company information, maintaining complete secrecy for shareholders and ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs). This makes it perfect for wealthy individuals (HNWIs), investors, and family offices seeking discreet asset protection.
Permitted Activities for RAK ICC
RAK ICC companies are intended for non-operational or investment purposes.
They can be used for:
- Asset or wealth management.
- Real estate holdings (UAE or foreign)
- Invest in stocks, bonds, or cryptocurrency.
- Consulting or IT advisory services.
- Owning intellectual property (IP)
- Family office or SPV structure
However, activities like insurance, pension funds, and banking are prohibited.
Bank Account Opening Challenges for Offshore Company
The biggest challenge for offshore companies is bank account opening.
Many UAE banks are cautious with offshore entities, but RAK ICC’s tie-up with RAK Bank offers a smoother experience.
Important Tips:
Before applying, prepare:
- A clear business summary
- LinkedIn profile
- Company profile or pitch deck
- Proof of funds
These documents increase your chance of approval. Alternatively, you can open accounts with digital or international banks.
What are the visa and residency options for offshore companies in UAE?
A RAK ICC Offshore company itself cannot issue UAE visas. But here’s the smart solution:
You can open a subsidiary under RAK EZ (RAK Economic Zone) and get it officially linked with RAK ICC to obtain residency visas for directors, shareholders, and employees.
So you can enjoy offshore privacy with onshore residency benefits with the help of E-Startup’s guidance.
When to Choose RAK ICC Offshore Company in UAE?
You can choose RAK ICC Offshore Company entity type in UAE when you want to:
- Hold global assets privately
- Manage family or investment funds
- Create a wealth protection structure
- Build a special-purpose vehicle (SPV)
- Reduce operational costs
However, you must avoid RAK ICC if you plan to trade physically, hire staff, or need office space. In that case you can go with a Free Zone or Mainland license.
FAQs
- Can I open a UAE bank account for my offshore company?
Yes, primarily with RAK Bank or through international digital banks.
- How long does registration take?
Usually 24–48 hours after submitting your documents and payment.
- Can I get a UAE visa through RAK ICC?
Not directly — but through a RAK EZ subsidiary, yes.
- Is RAK ICC compliant internationally?
Absolutely. It’s EU whitelisted and ESR compliant, making it globally legitimate.
- Do I need to visit the UAE to register?
No. You can register entirely online through an authorized RAK ICC agent
Also Read:
How to Get a Golden Visa in UAE and Earn High ROI on Your Investment?
If you need further assistance or have any doubts regarding offshore company registration in UAE, our experts are here to help you. Call us: 8881-069-069.
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