Money Exchange in RAK International Corporate Centre for Iranian nationals
OffshoreFinancialRegulated Activity

Money Exchange in RAK ICC

Starting From

AED 12,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Money Exchange

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

As an offshore entity regulated under Ras Al Khaimah's commercial laws, your Money Exchange 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 money exchange 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 Money Exchange?

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

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

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

Cost-effective offshore structure
Full foreign ownership
No tax obligation
Confidentiality protection
International business flexibility

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

For Iranian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your money exchange business in RAK ICC.

Banking for Iranian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your money exchange company in RAK ICC: Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Iranian business structures.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

Document attestation for Iranian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Iran, (2) Attestation by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to money exchange businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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
6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Central Bank of UAE
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Bank reference letter from your current bank

Regulatory Note: Money Exchange is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Central Bank of UAE is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee12,500
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 12,500

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your money exchange business plan and the best RAK ICC licence options for Iranian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the money exchange licence application to RAK ICC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

7

Start Operations

Your money exchange 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 Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your money exchange in RAK ICC? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionRAK ICC
Typeoffshore
EmirateRas Al Khaimah
License FeeAED 12,500
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code64190

Official Source

www.rakicc.com

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Money Exchange?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your money exchange in RAK ICC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.