Business Setup in RAKEZ Free Zone
RAKEZ Free Zone offers tax benefits, investor-friendly policies, and an easy setup process to help you start and grow your business seamlessly in the UAE.
- RAKEZ Free Zone
What is RAKEZ Free Zone?
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the UAE’s most cost-effective and investor-friendly free zones making it an ideal choice for business setup in UAE. Strategically based in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ connects investors to key markets across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and South and Central Asia.
RAKEZ Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and full repatriation of profits. It caters to entrepreneurs, SMEs, and large industrial companies.
- Flexible office options
- Customized licensing packages
- Simplified setup procedures
- Why RAKEZ
Benefits of Setting Up Business in RAKEZ Free Zone
Cost
Effectiveness
RAKEZ provides highly competitive setup costs and affordable flexi-desks or warehouses. It’s significantly cheaper than other free zones.
100% Foreign
Ownership
Full control with no local sponsor required. RAKEZ also offers flexible entity types, profit repatriation, IP protection, and supportive regulations for long-term growth.
Tax
Advantages
Qualifying businesses enjoy 0% corporate tax on free zone income, 0% personal tax, and no customs duties.
Strategic
Location
Located an hour from Dubai, RAKEZ connects to global markets via five seaports, an international airport, and highways. It offers logistical advantages for reaching the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Flexible
Licensing Options
RAKEZ offers diverse licenses (Commercial, Industrial, Service, Educational) for free zone and mainland operations. This versatility caters to varied business needs.
Customizable
Facilities
Six specialized zones provide tailored solutions, from startup offices to industrial warehouses and media hubs. RAKEZ supports a wide range of industries.
Streamlined
Setup Process
Business registration takes 24 hours to less than a week and can be completed remotely via Aurum.
Comprehensive
Business Support
RAKEZ offers accounting, marketing, visa services, and grants. These value-added services make it a one-stop shop.
- Why RAKEZ
Dedicated RAKEZ Business Zones
The Ideal Setting for Your Business! Our six specialized zones are designed to meet diverse business needs. Each zone offers strategic benefits, providing the right environment for your business.
Industrial Zones
Al Ghail Industrial Zone
Al Ghail Industrial Zone is the ideal location for establishing large-scale industrial manufacturing enterprises.
Al Hamra Industrial Zone
Al Hamra Industrial Zone serves as a modern hub for light industries and heavy industry projects.
Al Hulaila Industrial Zone
Al Hulaila Industrial Zone caters to businesses focused on heavy industrial manufacturing.
Business Zones
Al Nakheel Business Zone
Al Nakheel Business Zone is a modern hub for SMEs and freelancers, featuring first-class business centers.
Al Hamra Business Zone
Al Hamra Business Zone is ideally situated between the city center and neighbouring emirates.
Academic Zone
RAKEZ Academic Zone
RAKEZ Academic Zone hosts leading international educational institutions and service providers.
- How We Are Different
How RAKEZ Stands Out Among UAE Free Zones
| Category | RAKEZ | Other UAE Free Zones |
|---|---|---|
| Facilities | 6 zones: Business, Industrial, Academic, Media, Logistics, Services | Limited to 2–3 zone types |
| Tax Benefits | 0% Corporate Tax* & Personal Tax, Zero Customs Duties, Exclusive Grants | Standard 0% Tax & Duties, No extra grants |
| Market Access | Close to seaports, airports, and major global trade routes | Access varies by location |
| Setup Speed | Company setup in 24 hours to 1 week | 1–3 weeks |
| Ownership & Flexibility | 100% Foreign Ownership, Free Zone + Non-Free Zone License Options | Mostly Free Zone only, less flexible licensing |
*If business status is Qualifying Free Zone Person.
- Simplified Setup with Aurum, RAKEZ’s Dubai Accelerator
Types of Business Licenses in RAKEZ Free Zone
Commercial License
The Commercial License is designed for businesses engaged in trading activities, such as import, export, distribution, and sales of goods or services. It supports a wide range of commercial operations, including General Trading and E-Commerce, allowing companies to trade within the RAKEZ Free Zone, non-free zones, and internationally.
| Key Features |
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| Ideal License For |
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Industrial License
The Industrial License is tailored for businesses involved in manufacturing, production, assembly, or processing of goods. It supports operations in RAKEZ’s specialized industrial zones, offering access to advanced infrastructure like warehouses and land plots.
| Key Features |
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| Ideal License For |
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Consultancy License
The Consultancy License is intended for businesses providing professional advisory services in fields like business, finance, marketing, or IT. This license suits firms offering expert advice without engaging in physical trading or manufacturing.
| Key Features |
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| Ideal License For |
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Professional License
The Professional License is designed for individuals or professionals providing specialized services, such as media, content creation, or technical expertise. It supports solo entrepreneurs and freelancers operating in the RAKEZ Free Zone.
| Key Features |
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| Ideal License For |
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- Simplified Setup with Aurum, RAKEZ’s Dubai Accelerator
Steps for Business Setup in RAKEZ Free Zone
Aurum, RAKEZ’s Dubai-based accelerator will guide you through the business setup in Ras Al Khaimah with expert services tailored to your needs. Aurum provides end-to-end support, including consultation, documentation, and coordination with RAKEZ, ensuring a seamless setup process.
Select the business activity and the license type that aligns with your operations. RAKEZ offers over 4,000 activities across 50+ industries, with the option to combine up to seven activities under one license for flexibility.
Decide on the business entity, Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for single shareholders or Free Zone Company (FZC) for multiple shareholders, and choose a facility, such as flexi-desks, offices, warehouses, or land plots, based on your needs. RAKEZ’s six specialized zones provide tailored infrastructure for diverse industries.
Complete the online application and submit basic documents like passport copies, a business plan, and proof of address. For specific licenses, additional documents like attested educational certificates or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be required.
Receive your license and documents, ready to start operations immediately. Enjoy end-to-end support even after launch, including visas, banking, and workspace solutions.
Upon review, RAKEZ issues initial approval, typically within 24–48 hours, after which you pay the license and registration fees. Payment can be made online, with Aurum’s assistance.
Sign the lease agreement for your chosen facility and submit any remaining documents, such as shareholder agreements or activity-specific approvals. Aurum’s team provides guidance to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.
RAKEZ issues your business license, enabling you to commence operations, and facilitates visa processing for shareholders, employees, or dependents. The process is streamlined, with visa approvals typically completed within days.
Open a corporate bank account with Aurum’s banking support services to connect with trusted banks. Aurum can assist with the required documents and expedite the process.
- Frequently Asked Questions
Your Common Questions Answered
Why should I choose RAKEZ for my business setup in Ras Al Khaimah?
RAKEZ offers full foreign ownership, low setup costs, fast licensing, and a great location. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to start a business in Ras Al Khaimah.
What types of licenses are available in RAKEZ?
RAKEZ offers licenses including Commercial, Industrial, Consultancy, Professional, Educational, and Service licenses. These licenses support diverse activities and can be tailored for free zone or non-free zone operations in business setup in Ras Al Khaimah.
What types of office spaces are available in RAKEZ Free Zone?
RAKEZ offers a range of workspace options:
- Flexi-desks (shared spaces)
- Standard offices
- Warehouses and industrial land
- Customizable facilities for specific needs
You can choose the space that fits your business model and budget.
How long does it take to set up a business in RAKEZ?
Business setup in Ras Al Khaimah through RAKEZ typically takes 24 hours to 7 days, depending on the license type and documentation. Aurum, the RAKEZ Accelerator ensures the process is streamlined.
Do I need to visit Ras Al Khaimah to complete the setup?
What documents are required for business setup in RAKEZ?
Can I own 100% of my business in RAKEZ?
Yes, the RAKEZ Free Zone allows 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local sponsor. Businesses also benefit from 100% profit and capital repatriation, making it ideal for international investors.
Can I operate in the UAE mainland from RAKEZ?
Yes, RAKEZ offers non-free zone licenses that allow businesses to operate in the UAE mainland while retaining RAKEZ Free Zone benefits like tax exemptions. This flexibility supports companies targeting both local and international markets.
Is RAKEZ Free Zone good for online businesses?
Definitely. If you’re planning to start an e-commerce store or offer digital services, RAKEZ offers the right license and support to help you go live quickly. It’s a great option for anyone launching an online business.
How does Aurum assist with RAKEZ business setup?
Aurum, RAKEZ’s Dubai-based accelerator, provides seamless, end-to-end support for business setup in Ras Al Khaimah, including consultation, documentation, visa processing, and cost optimization.
- Get in Touch