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Types of RAK International Corporate Centre (ICC) Companies

RAK ICC
Last updated: 07 August 2026 | Published on: 29 November 2024By Aaron Richards

Key Takeaways

  • RAK ICC offers five distinct company structures to suit different business needs.
  • Companies limited by shares provide flexibility and limited liability for various business activities.
  • Companies limited by guarantee are suitable for non-profit organizations and similar purposes.
  • Restricted purpose and segregated portfolio companies offer specialized structures for defined objectives and asset segregation.
  • The right RAK ICC structure depends on your business objectives, risk tolerance, and organizational needs.

The Emiri Decree No. 12 of 2015 helped establish the Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. It serves as a registry for International Business Companies (IBCs) operating under the RAK ICC Business Companies Regulations of 2018.

It's essential to understand the available legal structures for business setup in RAK international companies to select the most appropriate one for your needs. Let's explore the different types of legal structures offered by RAK ICC to help you make an informed decision.

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Types of RAK International Corporate Centre (ICC) Company

The different types of structures used for RAK ICC company formation are,

Company Limited by Shares

The Company Limited by Shares (CLS) represents the most widely used option for establishing an International Business Company in RAK. The shareholders in this structure have their financial liability capped at their investment amounts; that means they benefit from limited liability. When incorporating a CLS, there must be at least one shareholder and one director. Moreover, the company can issue different types of shares, including bonuses and partly paid shares, which ensures capital flexibility. CLSs remain highly flexible because they suit a broad range of activities, from international trading to RAK ICC holding company, as well as project-specific undertakings and family wealth management. 

Company Limited By Guarantee

Another popular type of RAK ICC company is the company limited by guarantee. Unlike companies limited by shares, it has no shareholders who invest money. Instead, it has "guarantor members" who agree to pay a specific amount if the company faces closure due to debts. However, under the RAK ICC Business Companies Regulations 2018, a Company Limited by Guarantee has a highly unique hybrid feature that sets it apart from traditional Western CLGs. It can be authorized to issue shares, and the person with a guarantee can also be a shareholder in this case. This RAK ICC company structure is often used for non-profit organizations, such as charities or clubs. It is advantageous for organizations reinvesting any excess funds back into their mission rather than distributing profits to owners. Additionally, it protects the members' finances from company liabilities.

Restricted Purposes Company

A Restricted Purposes Company (RPC) operates similarly to a standard business organization that has a single defined purpose. Within this RAK ICC company structure, shareholders have no liability beyond their initial investment. Its official documents contain precise details regarding its authorized activities. This structure provides an extra layer of protection and certainty for investors, lenders, and transaction partners, as the company is legally barred from executing any transactions or holding assets outside its stated goals. An RPC can only be established at the moment of initial incorporation, as RAK ICC law does not permit a standard company to be transformed into an RPC at a later date. 

Segregated Portfolio Company

The Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC) functions as a corporation limited by shares, which enables it to divide its assets and liabilities into separate portfolios. An SPC establishes ten segregated portfolios, which separate portfolio assets and liabilities from company-wide assets and liabilities. The incorporation of individual portfolios is permitted if the Registrar is satisfied that the directors of the company have sufficient abilities and knowledge to manage these portfolios effectively.

Unlimited Company

An unlimited company may exist with or without share capital because its members have unlimited liability. If the company's assets are insufficient to meet its obligations, the members are jointly responsible for covering the shortfall without any limit. 

Hence, it is clear that the RAK ICC provides multiple company formation options for international businesses. Business owners should scrutinize each choice because the proper selection depends on business objectives, risk tolerance, and organizational strategy. Business Setup Worldwide will assist you with choosing your company structure and help you establish your business. Contact us for additional details.

Aaron Richards
Aaron Richards|Business Consultant

Aaron Richards is a seasoned expert with over six years of experience who specializes in offshore company formation, trust and foundation setup, and corporate services. Through his blogs, Aaron shares valuable insights to guide clients in making informed decisions about their global business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is RAK ICC, and why is it popular for company formation?

RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is a well-known offshore company registry in the UAE, offering flexible structures, tax efficiency, and international recognition. It's popular because it provides a secure and business-friendly environment with 100% foreign ownership and confidentiality.

2. What is a Company Limited by Shares under RAK ICC?

A Company Limited by Shares is the most common type of company in RAK ICC, ideal for businesses looking to issue shares to one or more shareholders. It provides limited liability protection and is often used for trading, consulting, and holding assets.

3. What is a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) from a regular company?

The main difference is that shareholders in a traditional company receive profits as owners of company shares, while a CLG operates without shares. Its primary purpose is to fulfill its mission rather than to generate profits for shareholders.

4. What types of organizations utilize the Company Limited by Guarantee structure?

The Company Limited by Guarantee is ideal for non-profit organizations such as charities, associations, and clubs, as well as for shared property management. In contrast, the Company Limited by Shares structure is optimal for businesses that wish to trade internationally, hold assets, or make investments. Business people also use this structure for joint ventures.

5. What is a Segregated Portfolio Company (SPC) in RAK ICC?

An SPC allows businesses to separate assets and liabilities within different portfolios under a single entity. This type is suitable for investment funds or companies managing diverse assets while minimizing risk exposure.

6. Is a physical office required for an RAK ICC company?

No, RAK ICC companies are considered offshore and do not require a physical office space within the UAE. However, they must have a registered agent and office address in Ras Al Khaimah.

7. Can an RAK ICC company do business within the UAE?

RAK ICC companies are primarily for international business and cannot conduct commercial activities directly within the UAE mainland. However, they can hold shares in UAE free zones or mainland companies.

8. What are the benefits of forming a company under RAK ICC?

The key benefits include 100% foreign ownership, no corporate or income tax, confidentiality and asset protection, international recognition, and flexible corporate structures.

9. How long does it take to register an RAK ICC company?

It takes between 2 and 5 business days to incorporate an RAK ICC company, depending on the type of structure and the documentation provided.

10. Can I open a bank account with a RAK ICC company?

Yes, but it depends on the bank’s requirements. Many international and local banks accept RAK ICC companies, especially when they are properly structured and have a clear business purpose.

11. Can I open a holding company through RAK ICC?

Yes, RAK ICC is often used to register holding companies, which can own shares in other companies, intellectual property, real estate, and other assets internationally. It’s a popular structure for wealth management and asset protection.