Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) Business Setup
- Company Setup from AED 6,000 (no visa setup)
- Registration can be completed in as little as 24 hours, with licenses issued within a single day for eligible packages.
- Residence visa available (validity up to 3 years)
About RAKEZ (ex. RAK FTZ)
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone is referred to as RAKEZ. Many people consider this free zone to be among the most well-known and alluring for setting up a business in the United Arab Emirates, both domestically and internationally. It has a seaport nearby and is located close to RAK Airport, making it a highly advantageous location.
RAKEZ is a government authority established by the Ras Al Khaimah Government in April 2017 under Law No. 2 of 2017. It was created following the merger of the RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA) and the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ), consolidating their services and facilities to create a unified economic zone under government supervision.
RAKEZ supports both free zone and non-free zone entity formations, providing flexibility for businesses with different operational requirements.
RAKEZ supports businesses across over 50 sectors with license options for more than 3,000 business activities.
Over 40,000 companies, including manufacturers, freelancers, SMEs, entrepreneurs, and startups, consider the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone home. Free zone, non-free zone, offshore, and mid-shore free zone company setups are supported by this worldwide commercial and industrial hub that spans more than 50 industry sectors.
RAKEZ business licenses are recognized by major UAE banks, facilitating the bank account opening process for entrepreneurs and businesses.
The Six RAKEZ Zones
The six distinct field-specific zones that make up RAKEZ are as follows:
Al Ghail Industrial Zone
For large industrial manufacturers
Al Hamra Industrial Zone
Suitable for businesses operating in both light and heavy industries
RAKEZ Academic Zone
Leading worldwide educational institutions and service companies
Al Hulaila Industrial Zone
For manufacturers of heavy industries
Al Nakheel Business Zone
Excellent business hubs for independent contractors and small businesses
Al Hamra Business Zone
Commercial, industrial, and logistics hubs with access to residential and entertainment amenities
Is RAKEZ Suitable for Your Business?
— RAKEZ is suitable if you:
✓ Plan to launch or expand a manufacturing, industrial, or assembly company
Ready-made warehouses and industrial land plots are available, with excellent proximity to the port and RAK Airport for logistics. Industrial zones benefit from guaranteed 24/7 government-supplied power, gas, and water, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
✓ Want an executive office outside Dubai or Abu Dhabi
RAKEZ offers a good range of offices in various sizes, with flex desk facilities as the minimum requirement.
✓ Are an independent contractor, individual professional, or remote worker
The free zone provides a range of offices, co-working spaces, and flex desks at affordable setup fees, making it ideal for freelancers and independent professionals.
✓ Are a female entrepreneur
RAKEZ offers the BusinessWomen Package starting from AED 6,000 per year, with enhanced benefits including two free additional activities, 25% visa discounts, VIP banking services, and exclusive networking opportunities.
✓ Need to combine mainland and free zone activities
Consider RAKEZ’s exclusive Global product—a mid-shore setup that merges both operational structures.
— RAKEZ may not be suitable if:
You wish to be physically located in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and require a physical office there. In this situation, you can establish a business in one of the free zones in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
RAKEZ Company Formation Process
Setting up a business in Ras Al Khaimah can take from 24 hours to one week, depending on the package selected and document readiness. With RAKEZ’s Instant Licensing, you can obtain your license in as little as 5 minutes online. For packages requiring physical verification, you can visit the zone’s representative office in Dubai instead of traveling to Ras Al Khaimah.
FZEs (Free Zone Establishments) with one shareholder, FZCs (Free Zone Companies) with two to five shareholders, and branches of domestic and international businesses are among the company creation types in RAKEZ.
The Ras Al Khaimah company register is kept private and is not accessible to the general public. RAKEZ maintains clear cancellation and refund policies for businesses. These sets up the advantages of the RAKEZ free zone and explains why business owners worldwide decide to establish their companies there.
Company Registration Procedure in RAKEZ
- Select the legal entity and license type based on your business strategy, operations, number of shareholders, and other requirements for your potential free zone enterprise.
- Compile the necessary paperwork in compliance with the free zone’s rules, send it in with a completed application, and pay the fees.
- Execute the lease agreement for the free zone property. Additionally, submit the contract to the RAKEZ authorities.
- Get your company’s incorporation documentation if your application is accepted.
- Get a resident visa and undergo a medical examination.
- Wait for your Emirates ID card once the visa has been approved.
- In the UAE, apply for a corporate bank account. The bank’s approval timeline varies depending on the bank and documentation completeness.
- After obtaining the account information, you can begin operating your company in the UAE.
All licensing, renewal, and amendment requests can be submitted conveniently through RAKEZ’s Portal 360 digital platform, ensuring safety, efficiency, and 24/7 access to services.
Don't miss out on this limited-time opportunity!
We'd Love To Hear From You
contact us
Find us Here
Office 2505, 25th Floor, Regal Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE P.O Box 27614
Get In touch
+971 4 824 4842
info@jsbincorporation.com
Send Your Inquiry
RAKEZ Instant Licensing
RAKEZ is the first economic zone in the UAE to offer instant business licensing. Entrepreneurs can obtain their business licenses in less than 5 minutes through a completely online process.
How Instant Licensing Works:
- Visit the RAKEZ website
- Choose your business package and activities
- Add shareholder details and select business name
- Make online payment
- Receive your valid business license instantly
- Start operations immediately
This digital platform eliminates paperwork and physical visits, allowing investors to legally start conducting business right away. All processes are managed through RAKEZ’s Portal 360 for convenience and security.
RAKEZ License Packages and Costs
RAKEZ license package fees are among the most competitive in the UAE:
| TYPE OF LICENCE | COST IN AED |
|---|---|
|
Biz Starter Package (Zero visa) |
6,000 per year |
|
Business Women Package |
Starts from 6,000 per year |
|
Packages with Visas |
Contact RAKEZ for current pricing |
Note: Pricing is subject to change. Contact RAKEZ directly or visit their official website for the most current package rates and promotions.
RAKEZ Biz Starter Package
RAKEZ Biz Starter Package is designed for entrepreneurs looking for fast, affordable business setup. With this package, you can get your business license issued within 24 hours and start operations immediately.
Package Features:
- Setup Cost: AED 6,000 per year
- License Issuance: Within 24 hours
- 100% Foreign Ownership: No local sponsor required
- Multiple Shareholders: Up to 5 shareholders allowed
- Business Activities: Up to 5 business activities per license
- Bank Account Eligibility: Open UAE business bank accounts
- Zero Corporate Tax: For qualifying free zone persons on qualifying income
- Coworking Centre Membership: Access to shared workspace facilities
- Business Networking: Invitations to exclusive networking events
- Online Process: Complete setup through RAKEZ’s digital platform
- Zero Visa Package: Ideal for entrepreneurs not requiring immediate employee visas
This package is perfect for startups, freelancers, and entrepreneurs looking for cost-effective, rapid business setup in the UAE.
RAKEZ Business Women Package
RAKEZ offers a specialized Business Women Package designed exclusively for female entrepreneurs, starting from AED 6,000 per year with enhanced support services.
Package Features:
- Competitive Pricing: Starting from AED 6,000 per year
- Two Free Additional Activities: Expand your business scope at no extra cost
- Visa Discounts: 25% reduction on employee and dependent visa fees
- VIP Banking Services: Dedicated support for business bank account opening
- Coworking Membership: Access to collaborative workspaces and professional environment
- Business Networking: Exclusive invitations to women’s business networking events
- Comprehensive Support: Tax, accounting, compliance, and e-commerce value-added services
- Flexible Structure: Up to 5 shareholders and 5 business activities
- All License Types: Available across Commercial, Services, E-Commerce, Media, Educational, and Professional licenses
- Self-Storage Services: Cost-effective storage solutions for inventory management
- Industrial & Transportation Services: Support for logistics and warehouse operations
Female entrepreneurs can choose any business activity and license type while benefiting from these enhanced features designed specifically to support women-owned businesses in the UAE.
RAKEZ License Packages with Visas
For entrepreneurs requiring UAE residence visas along with their business license, RAKEZ offers comprehensive packages that include:
Package Benefits:
- UAE residence visa(s) included
- Transparent pricing structure
- Office facility options (shared workstation to executive offices)
- Bank account opening support
- 100% foreign ownership
- Access to 3,000+ business activities across 50+ sectors
- Professional support services
For current pricing and package details, contact RAKEZ directly or visit their official website for the latest offers and promotions.
RAKEZ Licenses and Business Activities
The Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority frequently launches sales and discounts. The pricing is affordable, starting at AED 6,000 for a zero-visa Biz Starter Package with a one-year contract.
1. RAKEZ License Types
| License Type | Activities Allowed |
|---|---|
|
Commercial |
Trading in goods and services |
|
Educational |
Establishing educational institutions and consultancies |
|
E-Commerce |
Trading goods and services electronically |
|
General Trading |
Trading in multiple goods |
|
Professional |
Providing professional services |
|
Industrial |
Manufacturing, importing, packaging, and exporting goods |
|
Media |
Media-related business activities |
|
Service |
Offering various services and consultancies |
|
Tourism |
Operating tourism-related businesses |
|
Investment |
Various types of investments |
|
Freelance Permit |
Ideal for independent professionals offering services in various fields |
A Ras Al Khaimah business license is available for various commercial operations.
When compared to other free zones in the United Arab Emirates, RAKEZ has one of the widest ranges of activities. Activities are separated into licensing categories, which are further subdivided into several groups, each of which has a list of activities.
2. Special Requirements for Certain Activities
A certificate confirmed by the UAE Embassy in the country of origin should serve as proof of a company manager’s proper educational degree, which is required for some operations. These kinds of tasks are typically associated with professional services that call for specific credentials, like:
- Bookkeeping and accounting
- Design and consulting for architecture
- Aviation consultancy
- Consulting for communication engineering, among other things
Substance Requirements
Due to RAKEZ’s compliance with substance requirements, numerous activities are now subject to them. Special requirements will need to be met for their registration, including:
- A warehouse or a specific office location
- Submitting a plan for the company
- The management of the company has a resident visa sponsored by the company
Overview of RAKEZ Global Product
By combining the advantages of offshore and free zone installations, RAKEZ provides a Mid-Shore Free Zone Company. This concept enables corporate re-domiciliation to RAKEZ and is perfect for foreign investors.
With possibilities for co-working spaces, physical offices, warehouses, and leased property, the Business License Package enables a range of activities, including media, e-commerce, commercial services, and RAKEZ industrial licenses.
Key Benefits
- Starting a remote business without a physical presence
- Simple RAKEZ portal registration and renewal
- Visas for residency in the UAE and bank accounts in UAE banks
- Access to more than 100 double taxation treaties and no business tax for qualifying income
For holding corporations, trading, e-commerce, and industrial manufacturers, RAKEZ Global Product is perfect.
For current RAKEZ Global Product pricing, facility options, and visa eligibility details, please contact RAKEZ directly or visit their official website.
RAKEZ Facilities
For any business, but particularly for entrepreneurs needing storage facilities, Ras Al Khaimah company incorporation would be a wise choice. RAKEZ provides land plots for development as well as a large number of ready-to-use, adaptable spaces for staff housing and storage. These locations offer competitive advantages comparable to other major UAE free zones, with more affordable pricing.
The Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone has offices in both RAK and Abu Dhabi. In either emirate, you can choose between smart offices and flex desks. Pricing may vary by location and facility type.
Office types are related to the number of eligible visas and range from executive offices to co-working spaces with flex desks.
Facility Options
| Facility Type | Description | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Co-working Spaces |
Flexible workspaces ideal for entrepreneurs/freelancers or startups. |
Located in Compass Coworking Centre; fosters collaboration and networking. |
|
Serviced Offices |
Premium offices offering both privacy and a professional setting. |
Situated in prime business centers; fully serviced with essential amenities. |
|
Standard Offices |
Affordable private offices designed for SMEs. |
Cost-effective option for building a market presence.
|
|
Executive Offices |
Spacious offices tailored for growing companies. |
Accommodates larger teams; equipped with advanced facilities. |
|
Shell & Core Offices |
Undeveloped spaces ready for tenant customization. |
Flexibility to design according to specific business needs. |
|
Warehouses |
Customizable warehouses in various sizes. |
Close to seaports and airports; suitable for storage and distribution needs. |
|
Industrial Land |
Extensive plots available for large-scale operations. |
Suitable for industrial development and expansion; 24/7 government-supplied utilities |
|
Staff Accommodation |
Ready-made staff and labor housing in industrial zones. |
Convenient on-site accommodation for workers, enhancing productivity |
|
Flexi-Desk |
Flexible desk spaces in RAK and Abu Dhabi. |
Cost-effective option with eligibility for fewer visas; available in multiple locations |
|
Smart Offices |
Modern office spaces in RAK and Abu Dhabi. |
High-end office facilities catering to various business needs |
Contact RAKEZ for current facility pricing, availability, and location-specific details.
RAKEZ Company License Renewal
Renewing a Ras Al Khaimah business license is generally less expensive than initial incorporation. It is possible to renew without the shareholder being present in person.
RAKEZ specifies that enterprises undergo financial audits. The audit needs to be submitted at the end of your fiscal year, which is December by default, but you can choose another month.
RAKEZ Company Renewal Procedure
Fill out an application >> Make the renewal payment >> Get your license.
Contact RAKEZ for current renewal fees and specific requirements.
RAKEZ Company Amendments and Regulations
The company is subject to change at any time. The following changes are among the most common ones:
- Shareholders/managers
- Company name
- Business activity
- Office facility
The manager or shareholder must be present in person to submit an amendment application.
RAKEZ Company Amendment Procedure
Visit RAKEZ representative office >> Pay the amendment fee >> Receive the amendment confirmation.
The closing of a Ras Al Khaimah free trade zone firm takes approximately three to four weeks. Before applying for the company’s liquidation, make sure to cancel all of the visas associated with it.
Government fees apply for company liquidation. Contact RAKEZ for current official closure fees and detailed requirements.
RAKEZ Company Liquidation Procedure
Visa cancellation >> Bring the original copies of your documentation and the signed cancellation form to the representative office of RAKEZ >> Get confirmation of liquidation.
RAKEZ Residence Visa: Procedure and Cost
Packages range from zero visas to multiple visas depending on the office facility and business setup type. If you rent a warehouse or larger office space, your business will be eligible for additional visas based on the facility size.
Health insurance is required for dependents if you open family visas, though it is not mandatory for RAKEZ business owners themselves.
In addition to standard residence visas (1-3 years), eligible investors and entrepreneurs may qualify for:
- Green Visa: 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs
- Golden Visa: 10-year residence visa for investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional talent
These long-term visa options provide greater stability for business owners planning extended operations in the UAE.
Contact RAKEZ for current visa processing fees, requirements, and eligibility criteria
RAKEZ Support Services
Beyond business setup, RAKEZ provides comprehensive value-added services to support your business operations:
- Accounting & Tax Services: Corporate tax filing, VAT registration, bookkeeping, and audit support
- Translation Services: Document translation and UAE Embassy attestation
- Bank Account Opening: Assistance with UAE business bank accounts and banking relationships
- Recruitment Services: Talent acquisition and employee visa processing support
- Procurement Support: Supply chain management and vendor sourcing
- Marketing Services: Digital marketing, branding, and business promotion
- Legal Advisory: Contract review, legal compliance, and corporate governance
- E-Commerce Solutions: Online business setup, payment gateway integration, and digital commerce support
- Self-Storage Services: Warehousing and inventory management solutions
- Industrial & Transportation Services: Logistics, cleaning, and warehouse management
UAE Corporate Tax Compliance
The UAE introduced a federal Corporate Tax under policies established by the UAE Ministry of Finance, effective for financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023. This tax regime applies to all Emirates and is administered by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
Tax Rates:
- 0% rate on taxable income up to AED 375,000
- 9% rate on taxable income exceeding AED 375,000
Who Must Pay Corporate Tax:
- All UAE resident companies (including free zone companies)
- UAE branches of foreign companies
- Natural persons conducting business activities with annual turnover exceeding AED 1 million
Filing Requirements:
- Annual Corporate Tax returns must be filed within 9 months of the financial year-end
- Registration with FTA is mandatory for all taxable persons
- Detailed financial records must be maintained for a minimum of 7 years following the end of the relevant tax period
Free Zone Companies:
RAKEZ companies may qualify as “Qualifying Free Zone Persons” (QFZP) and benefit from 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income, provided they meet specific conditions:
QFZP Requirements:
- Must be a juridical person (corporation or partnership)
- Conduct qualifying activities within the Free Zone geographical area
- Maintain adequate substance in the UAE (office space, employees, operating expenses)
- Derive income from qualifying activities
De Minimis Rule:
RAKEZ companies can still maintain QFZP status even if they earn non-qualifying income, provided the non-qualifying income is below BOTH of the following thresholds:
- Less than 5% of total revenue, AND
- Less than AED 5 million
Non-qualifying income above these thresholds is subject to the standard 9% Corporate Tax rate.
Non-Qualifying Income Examples:
- Income from mainland UAE activities
- Domestic sales within the UAE
- Certain financial services
RAKEZ companies should consult with tax advisors to ensure proper classification and compliance with QFZP requirements.
Important Note: The Corporate Tax applies to businesses’ net profits, not revenue, and represents a significant compliance requirement for all UAE companies established after June 2023.
UAE VAT Registration and Compliance
Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced in the UAE on 1 January 2018 at a standard rate of 5%. VAT compliance is mandatory for eligible businesses and is administered by the Federal Tax Authority.
VAT Registration Thresholds:
- Mandatory Registration: AED 375,000 annual taxable turnover
- Voluntary Registration: AED 187,500 annual taxable turnover
- Non-UAE Businesses: Must register regardless of turnover threshold
VAT Rates:
- Standard Rate: 5% on most goods and services
- Zero Rate: 0% on exports, international transport, healthcare, and education services
- Exempt: Certain financial services and residential property rentals
Key Compliance Requirements:
- Issue VAT-compliant tax invoices for all taxable supplies
- File quarterly VAT returns by the 28th of the following month
- Maintain detailed records for a minimum of 5 years
- Register within 30 days of exceeding the mandatory threshold
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Failure to register: AED 20,000
- Late filing: AED 1,000 (first offense), AED 2,000 (subsequent offenses)
- Incorrect invoices: AED 5,000 per document
Input Tax Recovery:
Registered businesses can reclaim VAT paid on business purchases (input tax) by deducting it from VAT collected on sales (output tax), subject to proper documentation and eligibility criteria.
Both Corporate Tax and VAT represent significant compliance obligations for businesses operating in RAKEZ, requiring proper registration, record-keeping, and timely filing to avoid penalties and ensure legal compliance.
Conclusion
Establishing a business in the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a strategic choice for entrepreneurs seeking a streamlined and cost-effective process.
RAKEZ offers a dynamic environment with modern infrastructure, various license options, and tax benefits that foster business growth. With instant licensing capabilities, comprehensive support services, and flexible packages starting from AED 6,000, RAKEZ provides entrepreneurs with everything needed for successful business setup in the UAE.
Whether you’re a startup, SME, freelancer, or female entrepreneur, RAKEZ’s specialized packages and dedicated support ensure a hassle-free setup process, guiding you through every step with precision and efficiency.
Contact JSB Incorporation today for Your Custom Business Setup Quote.
FAQs
RAKEZ is a government authority and business hub in the United Arab Emirates that provides investors and businesses with strategic sites and affordable solutions. Established by the Ras Al Khaimah Government in 2017 under Law No. 2 of 2017, it hosts over 40,000 companies across 50+ sectors.
RAKEZ provides e-commerce, trade, service, industrial, freelancing, educational, media, tourism, and investment licenses for various commercial activities across more than 3,000 business activities.
With RAKEZ's Instant Licensing, you can obtain your business license in as little as 5 minutes online. The Biz Starter Package offers licenses within 24 hours. Depending on the package type and document readiness, setup can take from 24 hours to one week.
RAKEZ offers access to international markets, tax benefits (0% corporate tax for qualifying free zone persons), reasonably priced office space starting from AED 6,000, 100% foreign ownership, proximity to RAK Airport and seaports, and access to over 100 double taxation treaties.
Yes, for companies that don't need actual physical office space, RAKEZ provides virtual office, flexi-desk, and co-working space options through its various facility packages.
The Business Women Package is designed exclusively for female entrepreneurs, offering competitive pricing from AED 6,000 per year with enhanced benefits including two free additional activities, 25% visa discounts, VIP banking services, coworking membership, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Yes, eligible investors and entrepreneurs may qualify for Green Visas (5-year self-sponsored) or Golden Visas (10-year residence) in addition to standard 1-3 year residence visas.
Don't miss out on this limited-time opportunity!
We'd Love To Hear From You
contact us
Find us Here
Office 2505, 25th Floor, Regal Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE P.O Box 27614
Get In touch
+971 4 824 4842
info@jsbincorporation.com