RAK Maritime City
Complete guide to registering your company in RAK Maritime City Free Zone. Understand requirements, fees, registration process, and annual compliance obligations for maritime, shipping, and offshore businesses.
About RAK Maritime City
RAK Maritime City (RAKMC) is a specialized maritime and logistics free zone located in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Strategically positioned near major shipping routes, it serves as a hub for maritime services, ship management, offshore services, and marine engineering. With direct access to deep-water ports, dry docks, and shipyards, RAKMC offers 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and comprehensive maritime infrastructure.
License Types Available
Shipping & Logistics License
For ship management, vessel chartering, freight forwarding, and maritime logistics services.
Marine Engineering License
For ship repair, marine engineering, naval architecture, and technical marine services.
Offshore Services License
For offshore oil & gas support, subsea services, diving operations, and offshore construction.
Maritime Trading License
For marine equipment trading, ship chandling, and maritime spare parts supply.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Clear copies of passports for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or bank statement (within 3 months)
- Business Plan: Description of maritime activities and target market
- Maritime Experience: CVs demonstrating maritime/shipping industry experience
- No Objection Certificate: If currently employed in UAE (for UAE residents)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Choose License Type & Trade Name
Select maritime license category and reserve your company name
Timeline: 1-2 days
Submit Application & Documents
Complete application and submit required documents to RAK Maritime City
Timeline: 1-2 days
Initial Approval
RAKMC reviews application and issues initial approval letter
Timeline: 3-5 business days
Payment & Lease Agreement
Pay license fees and sign lease for office, warehouse, or yard space
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Issuance
Receive trade license and access to maritime facilities
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visa & Bank Account
Apply for residence visas and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 2-3 weeks
RAK Maritime City Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 12,000 - 25,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 5,000 |
| Share Capital (No deposit required) | - |
| Office Space (Annual) | 15,000 - 30,000 |
| Warehouse/Yard (per sqm/year) | 100 - 200 |
| Visa Quota (per visa) | 3,000 - 5,000 |
* Fees are subject to change. Contact us for current pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Renew trade license annually before expiry date. Late renewal incurs penalties.
Facility Lease Renewal
Maintain valid lease agreement for office, warehouse, or yard space.
Financial Statements
Submit audited financial statements if required based on company size and activity.
Corporate Tax Filing
Register for Corporate Tax and file annual returns. QFZP status may provide 0% CT on qualifying income.
VAT Filing (if applicable)
Register for VAT if taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 threshold. File quarterly returns.
Economic Substance Reporting
Submit annual ESR notification and report for relevant activities, particularly for shipping companies.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
RAK Maritime City companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income
- 9% on non-qualifying income (mainland transactions)
- De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue
Related Free Zones
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