What documents does an Indian national need to start a warehousing business in the UAE?

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

How long does it take for an Indian citizen to set up a warehousing 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.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Warehousing 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 Warehousing 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. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

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

Your RAK ICC licence can include warehousing 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.

Is RAK International Corporate Centre good for warehousing 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 tax implications for a Warehousing 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.

Warehousing in RAK International Corporate Centre for Indian nationals

OffshoreTransport

Warehousing in RAK ICC

Starting From

AED 12,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Warehousing

The UAE continues to attract Indian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAK ICC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for warehousing operations. Largest expatriate community in the UAE (~3.5 million), 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 Warehousing business access to Ras Al Khaimah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities and excellent connectivity. The Warehousing activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up warehousing 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 Warehousing?

Choosing RAK ICC for your warehousing 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 warehousing 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 warehousing professionals. Furthermore, confidentiality protection positions your warehousing 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 transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Cost-effective offshore structure

Full foreign ownership

No tax obligation

Confidentiality protection

International business flexibility

Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. Once your warehousing 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 Indian Business Owners

Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. For your warehousing business in RAK ICC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Indian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any India-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for warehousing), 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 India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

7Bank reference letter from your current bank

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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 warehousing business plan and the best RAK ICC licence options for Indian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the warehousing 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. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

Start Operations

Your warehousing 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 Indian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

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