Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone
(RAKEZ Free Zone)

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the UAE’s major economic zones, offering business setup solutions for startups, SMEs, manufacturers, traders, and service providers.

RAKEZ was established to consolidate the operations of the former RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA) and Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ). Today, it supports companies across a wide range of industries and provides flexible licensing, office, warehouse, and industrial facility options.

Located in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ offers businesses access to the UAE and international markets through its strategic location and established infrastructure. Its business community includes companies from more than 100 countries and covers numerous sectors.

Features of RAKEZ Free Zone

RAK free zone company setup offers 100% ownership
Entity formation as free zone and non-free zone
Quick and efficient business setup processes
Ability to build on-site staff and accomodation
Wide-range of businesses, industrial facilities, and value-added services
One-stop solution for all services
Customer portal with self-service
Strong connectivity to major logistical hubs and multilane super highways
Business setup in Ras Al Khaimah offer easy accessibility via an international spread of regional offices
Get easy access to markets across the countries like Middle East, Asia, North Africa, and Europe regions.

Specialized Zones in RAKEZ

The above zones cater various sectors that include trading, services, consultancy, manufacturing, industrial projects, logistics, schools, universities, institutes, academic consultancy and other services.

Business Structures in RAKEZ Free Zone

The business operations of a company registered in RAKEZ free zone can be structured in either one of the following ways:

Business Structures in RAKEZ Non-Free Zone

A non-free zone operation requires a UAE national partner.

In case of a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) and Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) the minimum capital requirement is AED 100,000). However, it is not mandatory to evidence the deposit of the capital amount.

If it’s a non-free zone company, it will have sufficient capital to achieve the purpose of incorporation and the capital has equal shares in value. In case of a proposal made by the minister in combination with the competent authorities, cabinet may issue decision that determines the minimum capital of the company.

License Types in RAKEZ

RAKEZ offers several license categories for businesses across trading, manufacturing, professional services, education, e-commerce, and media. The right license depends on your business activity and the type of operations you plan to conduct.

Commercial License: Suitable for businesses involved in trading, importing, exporting, and distributing goods.
General Trading License: Designed for businesses trading in multiple product categories under one license, subject to RAKEZ activity rules.
Industrial License: Suitable for manufacturing, assembling, processing, and packaging activities within RAKEZ.
Service License: For companies providing consultancy, business support, and other service-based activities.
Professional License: Suitable for individuals and businesses offering specialized professional services based on their expertise.
Educational License: Designed for eligible education-related activities, including training, teaching, and consultancy services.
E-commerce License: For businesses selling products or services through online platforms and digital channels.
Media License: Suitable for eligible media, production, marketing, and related creative activities.

Choosing the right RAKEZ license starts with your business activity. A&A Associate, an Authorized Channel Partner of RAKEZ, can help you identify the suitable license category and complete the company formation process.

Steps for Company Setup in RAKEZ Free Zone

Setting up a business in RAKEZ involves choosing the right business activity and license, preparing documents, submitting your application, and completing the incorporation process. A&A Associate, an Authorized Channel Partner of RAKEZ, supports investors through each stage.

1. Choose Your Business Activity and Package: Start by selecting your business activity and preferred RAKEZ package. The choice of activity determines the suitable license and setup requirements. Our team helps you compare available options and select a package based on your business needs.

2. Choose the Legal Structure: Select the appropriate legal structure for your company. RAKEZ offers different company structures based on the number of shareholders, business activity, and operational requirements.

Our business setup consultants in dubai helps you identify the suitable structure and explains the documents and requirements before you proceed.

3. Prepare the Required Documents: Prepare the documents required for your RAKEZ company formation. These typically include passport copies, photographs, application forms, and company-related documents where applicable.

Our team reviews the documents before submission to reduce delays during the application process.

4. Submit the Application to RAKEZ: Once your documents are ready, submit the company formation application to RAKEZ. As an Authorized Channel Partner, A&A Associate assists with the application process and coordinates with RAKEZ on your behalf.

5. Receive Your Trade License and Incorporation Documents: After approval, RAKEZ issues your trade license and incorporation documents. Your company is then officially registered within the free zone.

Our team helps you understand the next steps after receiving your company documents.

6. Apply for Visas and Open a Corporate Bank Account: After incorporation, you can proceed with residence visa applications for eligible shareholders, employees, and dependents.

You can also start the corporate bank account opening process. A&A Associate provides guidance on the required documents and application process.

7. Stay Compliant With Accounting and Tax Requirements: After setting up your company, ongoing compliance becomes important. Accounting, bookkeeping, VAT, and UAE Corporate Tax requirements depend on your business activities and financial position.

A&A Associate provides accounting and bookkeeping services to help RAKEZ companies maintain accurate financial records and meet their compliance obligations.

Documents Required for RAKEZ Company Formation

The documents required for RAKEZ company formation depend on whether the shareholder is an individual or an existing corporate entity. Additional documents might be required based on the business activity and license type.

For Individual Shareholders

Individual shareholders typically need:

Coloured passport copy
Emirates ID copy for UAE residents
UAE visa copy and entry stamp, if applicable
Original No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the General Manager, where required
Business plan, where applicable

For Corporate Shareholders

Corporate shareholders typically need:

Shareholders’ resolution approving the establishment of the RAKEZ company and appointment of the General Manager
Trade license or certificate of registration of the existing company
Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
Certificate of Good Standing or Certificate of Incumbency, where applicable

Important: Document requirements vary based on the chosen business activity, company structure, shareholder profile, and RAKEZ approval requirements. It is best to confirm the latest requirements before submitting your application.

Cost of RAKEZ License

The RAKEZ license cost starts at AED 4,999 for a 0-visa package and AED 7,499 for a 1-visa package. The final cost depends on your business activity, license type, visa requirements, and any additional approvals or facilities required.

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone RAKEZ Free Zone