RAK Maritime City Free Zone Company Setup 2026 | RAK Guide

At a Glance

Key Features

• Port adjacency: Direct access to Saqr Port, the second-largest bulk cargo port in the Middle East, enabling efficient import/export and maritime operations.
• Industrial infrastructure: Large industrial plots, warehouses, dry docks, and vessel repair facilities suited to heavy industry and maritime businesses.
• Maritime specialisation: One of the few UAE free zones with dedicated maritime licences, including ship registration and vessel management.
• 100% foreign ownership: No local sponsor required for free zone entities.
• Customs duty exemption: Goods processed within the free zone are exempt from import/export duties (within the free zone perimeter).
• Integrated logistics: Access to RAK Ports' logistics infrastructure supports supply-chain intensive operations.

Suitable Activities

RAK Maritime City accommodates industrial and maritime-intensive businesses including:

• Ship building, repair, and maintenance
• Maritime services and vessel management
• Offshore oil & gas equipment and supplies
• Heavy equipment manufacturing and repair
• Steel fabrication and metal works
• Logistics, freight, and warehousing
• Trading in industrial and maritime goods
• Engineering and technical services for maritime sectors
• Recycling and scrap metal operations

Company Structures

• FZE (Free Zone Establishment): Single-shareholder entity; 100% foreign ownership permitted.
• FZC (Free Zone Company): Two or more shareholders; suitable for joint ventures.
• Branch: Branch of an existing UAE or overseas company operating in maritime or industrial sectors.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Define activity and facility needs — determine licence type and required facility (plot, warehouse, office).
2. Submit application — provide business plan, company documents, and facility request to RAK Maritime City Authority.
3. Initial approval — typically within 3–7 working days for standard applications.
4. Facility agreement — negotiate and sign lease or usufruct agreement for industrial plot, warehouse, or office.
5. Pay fees — licence registration fees plus facility lease deposit and annual rent.
6. Receive trade licence — issued after payment and document verification.
7. Apply for residence visas — based on workforce headcount and facility capacity.
8. Open UAE bank account — maritime/industrial companies should expect a longer KYC process (8–12+ weeks is common).

Required Documents

• Passport copies (all shareholders and directors)
• Passport-size photographs
• Business plan / activity description
• Corporate documents (if shareholder is a company): certificate of incorporation, MOA, board resolution
• CV/professional background for key personnel
• Facility requirements specification
• Additional regulatory approvals may be required for specific maritime or industrial activities

Indicative Costs

All figures are indicative estimates. Maritime and industrial free zone costs vary significantly by facility type and size. Always request a current written quote directly from RAK Maritime City Authority or a licensed business setup agent.

Renewal

Licences are renewed annually. Facility lease agreements may have multi-year terms with renewal options. Ensure that all licences, facility agreements, and employee visas are tracked and renewed on time to avoid penalties or operational disruption.

Banking and Tax Notes

UAE banks apply enhanced due diligence to maritime, oil & gas, and industrial companies. Account opening timelines of 8–16 weeks are common. Engage a banking specialist familiar with maritime businesses early in the process.

The UAE Corporate Tax (9% on taxable income above AED 375,000) applies broadly from June 2023. Free zone entities may qualify for a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet the "Qualifying Free Zone Person" (QFZP) criteria. Maritime and industrial operations with significant mainland dealings should verify their tax position with a UAE-licensed tax adviser.

Related Guides

• RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ) Guide
• UAE Free Zone Licence Cost Guide 2026
• Compare UAE Free Zones Side by Side
• UAE Free Zone Business Setup Guide
• UAE Free Zone Visa Cost Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes RAK Maritime City different from other UAE free zones?

RAK Maritime City's primary distinction is its adjacency to Saqr Port and its focus on maritime, ship repair, and heavy industrial operations. Unlike general-purpose free zones that offer flexi-desks and small offices, RMCFZ is oriented towards businesses that need industrial-scale facilities, sea access, or maritime-specific licences.

Can a ship be registered in RAK Maritime City?

RAK Maritime City offers vessel registration and ship management licences. The specific regulatory framework for ship registration in UAE free zones is governed by the relevant UAE maritime authorities. Consult with a maritime legal specialist and the Authority directly for current vessel registration requirements and fees.

Is RAK Maritime City suitable for logistics and warehousing companies?

Yes. RMCFZ accommodates logistics, freight forwarding, and warehousing businesses that benefit from port proximity. Warehouse units and industrial plots are available for lease. Companies handling goods through Saqr Port can benefit from streamlined customs procedures within the free zone.

What visa quota does RAK Maritime City provide?

Visa quotas in RMCFZ are based on the facility type and size — larger industrial plots and warehouses typically support higher visa allocations. Service and trading licence holders with smaller office footprints will have a more limited initial quota. Verify the current quota structure with the Authority when selecting your facility package.

How long does it take to set up in RAK Maritime City?

Licence issuance for standard applications typically takes 5–10 working days. Industrial setup, facility build-out, or specialised maritime activities may require longer lead times due to facility negotiations and activity-specific approvals. Bank account opening is a separate process and typically takes 6–12+ weeks for maritime and industrial entities.

Sources & Disclaimer: This page is for general information only. Costs, licence categories, and port facilities are subject to change; always verify directly with RAK Maritime City Free Zone Authority or a licensed UAE business setup consultant. Reviewed June 2026.