What documents does a Lebanese national need to start a pharmacy business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Lebanon, attested documents via Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your pharmacy venture.

How long does it take for a Lebanese citizen to set up a pharmacy 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.

What business activities can I include on my RAK ICC licence?

Your RAK ICC licence can include pharmacy as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Pharmacy company in RAK International Corporate Centre?

Yes, RAK ICC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What documents do I need to set up a Pharmacy business in RAK ICC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by DHA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

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

Most of the setup process for a pharmacy 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.

What are the tax implications for a Pharmacy 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.

Pharmacy in RAK International Corporate Centre for Lebanese nationals

OffshoreHealthcareRegulated Activity

Pharmacy in RAK ICC

Starting From

AED 12,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Pharmacy

The UAE continues to attract Lebanese entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAK ICC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for pharmacy operations. Influential business community (~150,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from RAK International Corporate Centre gives your Pharmacy business access to Ras Al Khaimah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from DHA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up pharmacy businesses in RAK International Corporate Centre since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why RAK ICC for Pharmacy?

Choosing RAK ICC for your pharmacy business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

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

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

Cost-effective offshore structure

Full foreign ownership

No tax obligation

Confidentiality protection

International business flexibility

Visa Requirements for Lebanese Nationals

For Lebanese entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Lebanese 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 pharmacy business in RAK ICC.

Banking for Lebanese Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your pharmacy company in RAK ICC: Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles. Many have established successful businesses across various sectors. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Lebanese business structures.

Document Attestation for Lebanese Nationals

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

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Lebanon passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Bank reference letter from your current bank

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Regulatory Note: Pharmacy is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DHA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

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 pharmacy business plan and the best RAK ICC licence options for Lebanese nationals.

Document Preparation

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

Licence Application

Submit the pharmacy 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. Lebanese nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Lebanese entrepreneurs have a strong reputation in UAE business circles.

Start Operations

Your pharmacy 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 Lebanese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Pharmacy in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000