RAKEZ Business Setup — the UAE’s budget-friendly free zone
RAKEZ, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, is one of the UAE’s most affordable free zones — home to 40,000+ companies, with low-cost licences, warehouses and 100% ownership. Here’s how RAKEZ works, what it costs in 2026, and the steps to set up.
What this guide covers
Quick summary
- Who it suits: SMEs, light industry, warehousing and cost-conscious founders.
- Cost: among the lowest in the UAE — licences from around AED 11,500.
- Ownership: 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation.
- Facilities: flexi-desks, offices, warehouses and industrial land.
- Timeline: quick, founder-friendly setup in a few working days.
What RAKEZ is
RAKEZ — the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone — is home to more than 40,000 companies and is one of the UAE’s best-value free zones. It pairs some of the lowest licence and warehouse costs in the country with a straightforward setup, which is why it’s a favourite for SMEs, light industry and cost-conscious founders.
Why founders choose RAKEZ
- Low cost. Among the most affordable licences and facilities in the UAE.
- 100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation.
- Flexible facilities — flexi-desks, offices, warehouses and land for industry.
- Broad activities across commercial, professional, industrial and educational licences.
- Fast setup with a simple, founder-friendly process.
RAKEZ cost in 2026
RAKEZ is built around affordability. Licences start from around AED 11,500, and warehouse or industrial packages remain competitive versus Dubai zones. For a very lean zero-visa setup the entry point is lower still. Get an exact figure with our cost calculator.
How RAKEZ formation works
Choose activity & licence
Commercial, professional, industrial or educational — we match your model.
Reserve trade name
Submitted to RAKEZ for approval.
File documents
Passport and photo for an individual shareholder; light and quick.
Licence issued
RAKEZ issues your trade licence electronically.
Visas
Establishment card, medical, Emirates ID and stamping.
Bank account
We prepare and submit your corporate account application.
RAKEZ vs Dubai zones
Choose RAKEZ to keep costs down, especially for light industry, warehousing or a lean SME. If you need a Dubai address for clients or premium banking, compare IFZA or DMCC.
RAKEZ business setup FAQs
How much does RAKEZ setup cost?
Licences start from around AED 11,500, with very lean zero-visa setups lower still. Warehouse and industrial packages stay competitive versus Dubai zones. We give you an exact, itemised quote.
Is RAKEZ cheaper than Dubai free zones?
Generally yes, especially for warehousing and light industry. RAKEZ is one of the most affordable UAE free zones; the trade-off is a Ras Al Khaimah rather than a Dubai address.
Can foreigners own 100% of a RAKEZ company?
Yes — 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor, and full repatriation of profits.
What activities can I run in RAKEZ?
RAKEZ offers commercial, professional, industrial and educational licences covering thousands of activities — from trading and consultancy to manufacturing and warehousing.
How many visas can I get with RAKEZ?
Visa allocation depends on your package and facility. Flexi-desks carry a small allocation; offices and warehouses allow more. We size the package to your team from the start.
Ready to take action?
Whether you're ready to start or still comparing options, we'll give you a straight answer.
