What documents does an American national need to start a marketing consultancy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your marketing consultancy venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a marketing consultancy 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 much does it cost to set up a Marketing Consultancy business in RAK International Corporate Centre?

The total setup cost for a Marketing Consultancy 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.

Can I get a residence visa with my Marketing Consultancy licence from RAK ICC?

Offshore companies in RAK ICC do not include residence visa allocation. If you require a UAE residence visa, consider a free zone or mainland licence instead.

What are the tax implications for a Marketing Consultancy 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.

Is RAK International Corporate Centre good for marketing consultancy start-ups?

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

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Marketing Consultancy company in RAK ICC?

Most of the setup process for a marketing consultancy business in RAK ICC can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. Offshore company registration can typically be completed entirely remotely without any UAE visit.

Marketing Consultancy in RAK International Corporate Centre for American nationals

OffshoreProfessional

Marketing Consultancy in RAK ICC

Starting From

AED 12,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Marketing Consultancy

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

As an offshore entity regulated under Ras Al Khaimah's commercial laws, your Marketing Consultancy 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 marketing consultancy 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 Marketing Consultancy?

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

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective offshore structure, which is particularly valuable for marketing consultancy 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 marketing consultancy professionals. Furthermore, confidentiality protection positions your marketing consultancy 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 professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Cost-effective offshore structure

Full foreign ownership

No tax obligation

Confidentiality protection

International business flexibility

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your marketing consultancy business in RAK ICC.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your marketing consultancy company in RAK ICC: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to marketing consultancy businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Detailed business plan or activity description

6Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

7Bank reference letter from your current bank

8Passport-sized photographs with white background

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 marketing consultancy business plan and the best RAK ICC licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the marketing consultancy 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. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your marketing consultancy 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 American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Marketing Consultancy 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