RAK ICC Offshore Company Names Rules in 2025

RAK ICC Offshore Company Names (2025): Rules, Restricted Words & Reuse Periods

Quick Summary - RAK ICC Naming Rules at a Glance

Aspect	Key Takeaway
Name Reservation	A company name can be reserved for 30 days, extendable by another 30 days. With Registrar approval, the reservation may last up to 90 days total.
Restricted Words	Terms such as Bank, Trust, or Insurance are reserved for licensed entities. Their use requires explicit written approval from the Registrar with supporting justification.
Name Reuse Window	A company name from a dissolved, changed, or liquidated entity cannot be reused for three years, unless approved in writing by the Registrar.

Why Naming Matters for RAK ICC Offshore Companies

After helping businesses form in Ras Al Khaimah for over 15 years, one thing stands out - a great name can open doors, but a non-compliant one can close them.

Your company name is not just branding; it’s a legal identity governed by the RAK International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC). Choosing a compliant name early prevents rejections, delays, and costly revisions down the line.

Core Definitions (Simplified)

Company Name:

The official, legal title of your RAK ICC entity - not your trade name. It must include a legal suffix like Ltd., Inc., Corp., or S.A.

Restricted Words:

Terms suggesting a regulated activity or privileged status (e.g. ‘Bank’, ‘Trust’, ‘University’). Their use requires Registrar approval and sometimes proof of licensing.

Foreign Character Name:

A version of your company name in non-Latin script (Arabic, Chinese, etc.) registered alongside your English name. This requires certified translation and Registrar consent.

RAK ICC Naming Rules - Common Pitfalls to Avoid

RAK ICC’s naming policy, based on the 2018 Business Companies Regulations, aims to protect the integrity of the registry and prevent confusion. Here’s what to watch out for:

Rule	Explanation / Common Mistake	Reference
Similar or Misleading Names	Names identical or too similar to existing entities are rejected. Avoid anything that misrepresents your business activity.	RAK ICC Regulations
Trademark Infringement	Using a name that matches or mimics a registered trademark leads to automatic rejection. Always run a trademark search first.	RAK ICC
Overly Generic Names	Simple or descriptive names (like “The Business Company LLC”) lack distinctiveness and are usually declined.	RAK ICC
Cultural Sensitivities	Names considered offensive, religiously inappropriate, or against public policy are not allowed.	RAK ICC
Restricted Words	Certain words require prior written approval (see below).	Regulation 27

Restricted Words & Approval Requirements

Under Regulation 27, RAK ICC maintains a list of restricted or sensitive words. These are not automatically prohibited, but their use requires careful justification.

Examples of Restricted Words:

Bank, Banking, Insurance, Assurance, Reinsurance, Trust, Trustee, Royal, Chamber of Commerce, Municipal, University, Foundation, Emirates.

Approval Process:

• Submit a formal written request through your registered agent.
• Justify your intended use and provide any required licenses.
• Await Registrar’s discretionary decision - approval is not guaranteed.

Tip:
For financial or educational terms, expect to show valid licenses from another recognized jurisdiction.

Foreign-Language Company Names

RAK ICC allows companies to register names in foreign scripts - commonly Arabic, Chinese, or French - to support global business operations.

Key Rule:
You must provide a certified English translation to confirm the meaning and ensure it contains no restricted or misleading words. The translated name becomes an official addendum to your English legal name.

Reusing Company Names After Dissolution

Entrepreneurs often ask if they can reuse a company name after closing or renaming a business. The rule is specific and firm.

Standard Rule:
A company name that has been changed, dissolved, or liquidated cannot be reused for three years from the date of the event.

Exceptions:
Early reuse may be possible only with Registrar consent and a strong justification - though this is rarely granted.

Getting the Legal Suffix Right

Your company’s suffix is a mandatory part of your legal name, not a stylistic choice.

Company Limited by Shares:
Must include Limited (Ltd.), Incorporated (Inc.), Corporation (Corp.), or similar international equivalents (S.A., A.G.).

Protected Cell Company (PCC):
Must include “Protected Cell Company” or “PCC” - no exceptions.

How Long You Can Reserve a Name

Once you find a name that fits, you can reserve it while finalizing incorporation documents.

Stage	Duration
Initial Reservation	30 days
Extension	+30 days
Maximum Duration (with approval)	Up to 90 days total

This ensures names are held only by those intending to proceed with registration.

RAK ICC Naming FAQs

1. Can I use ‘Bank’, ‘Exchange’, or ‘Insurance’ in my company name?

Not without the Registrar’s written approval and supporting regulatory licenses. These are considered restricted terms under Regulation 27.

2. Can I register both an English and Arabic (or Chinese) company name?

Yes - your English name will be primary, and your foreign character name will be registered as a certified translation.

3. Can I reuse a dissolved company’s name before three years?

Rarely. The Registrar may approve early reuse in special cases, but this is highly discretionary.

Conclusion

Choosing a compliant and distinctive name is the first step toward a successful RAK ICC incorporation. By understanding the naming regulations early, you can avoid delays, protect your brand, and start operations faster.

At MSZ Corporate Services, we help you check name availability, secure approvals, and complete incorporation seamlessly.

Check your RAK ICC name eligibility within 24 hours - contact us today to get started! Visit our RAK ICC Offshore Setup Page.