Calculate the exact government registration fees, visa quotas, banking options, and corporate tax substance rules for a Maritime & Shipping company in Dubai Maritime City, Ras Al Khaimah.
A Maritime & Shipping company in Dubai Maritime City, Ras Al Khaimah, costs from AED 12,000 in Year 1, covering government registration and license fees. Registration takes 3-5 working days and bank-account approval is 85%. It suits Maritime services, ship repair, marine engineering.
| Jurisdiction | Baseline Gov Fee | Processing Speed | Banking | Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AED 12,000 | 3-5 days | Moderate | Maritime services, ship repair, marine engineering | |
RAK Maritime CitySourced from public records | AED 10,000 | 2-4 days | Moderate | Maritime services, ship building, port operations in RAK |
Hamriyah Free ZoneSourced from public records | AED 12,000 | 2-4 days | Moderate | Industrial and trading, deep-water port access, heavy industries |
Fujairah Free ZoneSourced from public records | AED 21,500 | 2-4 days | Moderate | Low-cost setup, port access, industrial and trading activities |
JAFZA - Jebel Ali Free Zone AuthoritySourced from public records | AED 40,211 | 3-5 days | Easy | Largest free zone, logistics hub, port access, trading and industrial activities |
DMCC - Dubai Multi Commodities CentreSourced from public records | AED 49,004 | 3-5 days | Easy | Premium Dubai address, commodities trading, highest international recognition |
Maritime services, ship repair, marine engineering
Maritime licences cover shipping, ship management, yacht chartering, and marine services. Dubai Maritime City, JAFZA, and Hamriyah Free Zone are popular choices. UAE Federal Transport Authority or Dubai Maritime Authority approval may be required depending on the vessel type and activity. Ship registration under the UAE flag follows a separate process.
Maritime transport services qualify as a qualifying free zone activity. International maritime transport is zero-rated for VAT. Domestic maritime transport services within the UAE may attract 5% VAT.
Maritime companies should prepare for enhanced due diligence related to sanctions screening and vessel ownership verification. Banks will request vessel registration documents, flag state certificates, and crew manifests. Trade finance facilities are essential for shipping operations.
Highly affordable. Office and warehouse rents are among the lowest in the UAE, starting from AED 30 per sq ft.
Home to Saqr Port, the Middle East's largest bulk handling port. Close connections to maritime trade routes.
Strong industrial talent pool in heavy manufacturing, mining, ceramics, and general commerce. Highly competitive salary expectations.
New marine service center opened in 2025
Expanded berth capacity for commercial vessels
Company setup in Dubai Maritime City starts from AED 12,000 per year.
Dubai Maritime City processes company registrations in 3-5 working days.
Bank account approval probability is 85%. Banking difficulty is rated Moderate.
Most UAE free zones including Dubai Maritime City allow remote company incorporation. Bank account opening may require an in-person visit.
Dubai Maritime City does not require paid-up share capital for most standard license types. Share capital is notional.
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