What documents does a Russian national need to start a general trading business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Russia, attested documents via Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille, and a business plan for your general trading venture.

How long does it take for a Russian citizen to set up a general trading company in RAK ICC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

How long does it take to get a General Trading licence in RAK ICC?

The typical processing time for a general trading licence at RAK ICC is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Is RAK International Corporate Centre good for general trading start-ups?

RAK ICC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering cost-effective offshore structure and full foreign ownership.

What are the annual renewal costs for a General Trading business in RAK International Corporate Centre?

The annual licence renewal for a General Trading RAK ICC company costs approximately AED 12,500, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

How much does it cost to set up a General Trading business in RAK International Corporate Centre?

The total setup cost for a General Trading business in RAK ICC starts from approximately AED 12,500 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 0 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What are the tax implications for a General Trading business in RAK International Corporate Centre?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Offshore entities are generally exempt from UAE corporate tax on income earned outside the UAE. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

General Trading in RAK International Corporate Centre for Russian nationals

OffshoreCommercial

General Trading in RAK ICC

Starting From

AED 12,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About General Trading

As a Russian national looking to establish a General Trading business in RAK International Corporate Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Russia has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Russian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As an offshore entity regulated under Ras Al Khaimah's commercial laws, your General Trading business will benefit from cost-effective offshore structure and full foreign ownership. The RAK ICC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,500.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your general trading setup in RAK ICC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why RAK ICC for General Trading?

There are several compelling reasons why RAK International Corporate Centre continues to attract general trading entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective offshore structure, which is particularly valuable for general trading operations. Additionally, full foreign ownership ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. The offshore structure provides maximum confidentiality and is ideal for holding assets, intellectual property, and international trade operations. Many international businesses choose the offshore route for its streamlined compliance requirements and ability to open multi-currency bank accounts with leading UAE banks. No tax obligation further enhances the appeal of RAK ICC for general trading professionals. Furthermore, confidentiality protection positions your general trading business for long-term success in the region. With Ras Al Khaimah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, RAK ICC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established commercial enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Russian nationals specifically, the Ras Al Khaimah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Russian business community.

Cost-effective offshore structure

Full foreign ownership

No tax obligation

Confidentiality protection

International business flexibility

Visa Requirements for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. Once your general trading licence is issued by RAK ICC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Russian Business Owners

Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations. IBA assists with proper documentation and bank selection. For your general trading business in RAK ICC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Russian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Russia-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Russian Nationals

Russian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for general trading), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to RAK ICC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Bank reference letter from your current bank

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	12,500
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 12,500

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your general trading business plan and the best RAK ICC licence options for Russian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Russia through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the general trading licence application to RAK ICC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official RAK ICC trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations.

Start Operations

Your general trading business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. RAK ICC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Russian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

General Trading in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750