Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the most dynamic and cost-effective free zones in the UAE. Designed to support entrepreneurs, startups, and large corporations alike, RAKEZ offers a business-friendly environment, competitive setup costs, and flexible license options. If you’re considering establishing a company in the UAE, this guide on how to setup business in RAKEZ Free Zone will walk you through the key steps.
Why Choose RAKEZ?
Before diving into the process of how to setup business in RAKEZ Free Zone, it's worth knowing why it stands out:
100% foreign ownership
Zero personal and corporate income tax
Wide range of business activities
Access to UAE and international markets
Affordable office and warehouse options
Fast-tracked licensing and visa services
Step-by-Step: How to Setup Business in RAKEZ Free Zone
1. Choose Your Business Activity
RAKEZ allows a wide variety of activities across sectors such as:
Trading
Consulting
Manufacturing
Media
E-commerce
Educational services
Select the activity that best fits your business model, as this determines your license type.
2. Decide on Your Company Structure
Common options include:
Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single shareholder
Free Zone Company (FZC) – Multiple shareholders
Branch of a Local/Foreign Company
3. Select Your Facility
RAKEZ offers various facilities based on your needs and budget:
Flexi Desk – Cost-effective option for startups and freelancers
Standard Office – Ideal for SMEs
Warehouses – For logistics and manufacturing
Land Plots – For large-scale industrial projects
4. Submit Required Documents
To setup your business in RAKEZ, you will typically need:
Passport copy of the owner/shareholders
Passport-sized photograph
Business plan (in some cases)
Completed application form
Proof of address
5. Apply for a Trade License
Once your documents are verified, RAKEZ will issue your trade license. Common types include:
Commercial License
Industrial License
Educational License
E-commerce License
Media License
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your license in hand, you can open a UAE business bank account. RAKEZ provides assistance in connecting you with banks that best suit your needs.
7. Apply for Residence Visa
Depending on your license package, you can apply for investor and employee visas through RAKEZ. They offer streamlined visa processing services.
Costs Involved
One of RAKEZ's biggest advantages is affordability:
Basic business setup: Starts from AED 11,000 to AED 14,000 (~USD 3,000–3,800)
Add-on services: Visa packages, office space, and additional activities
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to setup business in RAKEZ Free Zone is your gateway to entering the UAE’s lucrative market with minimal red tape and maximum flexibility. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or a multinational firm, RAKEZ offers an efficient and cost-effective route to business success in the Middle East.
