Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) has emerged as one of the most competitive business hubs in the UAE. Known for its affordability, simplicity, and investor-friendly environment, RAKEZ offers an attractive gateway for entrepreneurs, startups, freelancers, and SMEs to establish a business presence in the region.

Whether you’re looking to form a small consultancy, launch an e-commerce venture, or open a manufacturing unit, registering your company in RAKEZ can be a smart move. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about RAKEZ business setup, from license types and legal structures to the registration process and visa options.

Why Set Up a Business in RAKEZ?

Located in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the fastest-growing emirates in the UAE, RAKEZ combines the benefits of a free zone and non-free zone setup. It offers:

  • 100% foreign ownership

  • Competitive business license packages

  • Full repatriation of profits and capital

  • Access to global markets

  • No personal or corporate income tax

  • Quick registration process

  • Flexibility in business activities and facility options

It’s particularly popular among entrepreneurs looking for a low-cost and efficient way to enter the UAE market.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Company in RAKEZ

1. Choose Your Business Activity

RAKEZ supports a wide range of business activities across different sectors:

  • Trading (general or specific)

  • Services and consultancy

  • E-commerce

  • Media and creatives

  • Industrial and manufacturing

  • Education

  • Freelancing

You’ll need to identify your activity type as it will determine the appropriate license and regulatory requirements.

2. Select the License Type

RAKEZ offers several license categories tailored to various industries:

  • Commercial License: For buying and selling goods, import/export, and general trading.

  • Service License: For service-based companies such as consulting, marketing, or IT.

  • E-commerce License: For online selling and digital platforms.

  • Industrial License: For manufacturing and production-related businesses.

  • Educational License: For training centers, academic institutions, and educational consultancies.

  • Media License: For creative professionals and media-related services.

  • Freelance Permit: For individuals operating independently in approved freelance categories.

3. Choose Your Business Legal Structure

RAKEZ supports different types of company formation based on the number of shareholders and your preference:

  • FZE (Free Zone Establishment): Single shareholder

  • FZC (Free Zone Company): Multiple shareholders (2–50)

  • Branch of an existing company: UAE-based or foreign company branch

Each structure has its own regulatory requirements, but all offer 100% ownership with no need for a local sponsor.

4. Choose Your Facility Type

RAKEZ offers a variety of cost-effective workspace and land solutions to suit different types of businesses:

  • Flexi-desks: Shared workspace ideal for freelancers and startups

  • Executive offices: Fully equipped offices for SMEs

  • Standard offices: Affordable private spaces for growing companies

  • Warehouses: For storage, logistics, or manufacturing

  • Industrial land: Long-term leases for factories and large facilities

The facility you choose may affect the number of visas you’re eligible for, so plan based on your staffing needs.

5. Submit the Application and Required Documents

After deciding on your activity, license, and structure, the next step is to gather the required documents and submit your application.

Basic documents include:

  • Passport copies of all shareholders

  • Passport-sized photo

  • Business plan (for some activities)

  • NOC (No Objection Certificate) if you're a UAE resident

  • Application form from RAKEZ

  • Proof of address (in some cases)

For branches, additional documents such as parent company incorporation certificates and board resolutions are required.

6. Payment and License Issuance

Once your application is approved, you’ll be issued an invoice. After payment, you will receive:

  • Your business license

  • Certificate of incorporation

  • Lease agreement (if you’ve selected a facility)

Typically, the entire process from application to license issuance takes around 3 to 7 working days, depending on the complexity of the business and documentation.

Costs of Setting Up a Business in RAKEZ

RAKEZ is one of the most cost-effective zones in the UAE. Prices vary based on license type, visa requirements, and facility selection.

Estimated setup costs:

  • Freelance permit: From AED 6,100/year

  • Zero-visa packages: Starting from AED 5,499/year

  • One-visa packages: Around AED 11,000–14,000/year

  • Commercial or service licenses with office: From AED 14,000 and above

  • Warehousing and industrial setup: Customized pricing based on size

Visa packages and Flexi-desk facilities are also available for businesses that don't need a physical office.

Visa Options and Immigration Services

RAKEZ provides investor and employee visa options. The number of visas you're eligible for depends on your facility and business package.

Typical visa options include:

  • 1–6 visas for Flexi-desk or executive offices

  • Unlimited visas for warehouses or industrial setups

RAKEZ also offers:

  • Medical fitness tests

  • Emirates ID processing

  • Visa stamping and renewal

  • Family visa sponsorship support

Banking and Opening a Corporate Account

Once your company is registered, you can open a business bank account in the UAE. RAKEZ provides assistance by issuing the necessary documentation like:

  • Certificate of incorporation

  • Business license

  • Lease agreement

  • Shareholder and company details

Banks in the UAE may require the physical presence of the company owner or director for KYC (Know Your Customer) compliance.

Ongoing Compliance and Renewals

Once your company is established, you will need to maintain annual compliance including:

  • License renewal (yearly)

  • Lease renewal (if applicable)

  • Visa renewal (every 2–3 years)

  • Bookkeeping and audit (only mandatory for certain activities or on request)

RAKEZ offers simple renewal procedures and the ability to upgrade or downgrade your package as needed.

Advantages of Setting Up a Business in RAKEZ

  • Affordability: One of the cheapest free zones in the UAE

  • Speed: Quick registration and license issuance

  • Ownership: 100% foreign ownership, even for solo entrepreneurs

  • Visa flexibility: From zero-visa to multi-visa packages

  • Scalability: Easy to upgrade from desk to office or industrial land

  • Location: Proximity to Dubai, Sharjah, and access to international ports and airports

Who Should Consider RAKEZ?

RAKEZ is ideal for:

  • Freelancers and consultants

  • E-commerce startups

  • Trading and import/export companies

  • Manufacturing and industrial firms

  • Branches of foreign companies

  • Entrepreneurs looking for low-cost entry into the UAE market

FAQs

1. How long does it take to register a company in RAKEZ?
Most companies are registered within 3 to 7 working days, depending on document completeness and business type.

2. Do I need to be in the UAE to register a company in RAKEZ?
No. RAKEZ allows for remote registration and e-signature solutions. However, you may need to be physically present for banking or visa procedures.

3. Can I sponsor my family with a RAKEZ license?
Yes. As a license holder with a valid visa, you can sponsor your spouse and children under UAE family residency rules.

4. Is a local sponsor required to open a company in RAKEZ?
No. RAKEZ offers 100% foreign ownership with no need for a local Emirati partner or sponsor.

Final Thoughts

RAKEZ offers one of the most straightforward and budget-friendly paths to launching a business in the UAE. With flexible packages, low setup costs, and an efficient registration process, it's a strong choice for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and established businesses alike.