If you’re looking for one of the most affordable, flexible, and business friendly locations in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Free Zone should be on your radar. Over the past few years, RAK has rapidly transformed from a quiet northern Emirate into a thriving hub for entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and global investors.
The RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ), established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, serves as the central authority for free zone and non free zone businesses in the Emirate. It offers a seamless environment where investors can launch and grow companies across industries such as manufacturing, trading, consulting, IT, logistics, media, and services.
Compared to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, business setup in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone offers significantly lower costs while maintaining world class infrastructure, access to ports and airports, and investor friendly regulations. Whether you are a startup founder, SME owner, or international investor, RAK provides the right foundation for business growth in the UAE.
At Nines Consultancy, we help you navigate every step of your RAK Free Zone company setup from choosing the right license to getting your residence visa approved.
What Is RAK Free Zone and Why It’s Important
RAK Free Zone, managed by RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone), is one of the UAE’s most diverse and cost effective business zones. It consolidates several zones including RAK Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) and RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA) under one umbrella.
This means businesses can enjoy a range of industrial, commercial, and service oriented facilities with the flexibility to operate locally and internationally.
Key Highlights of RAK Free Zone:
- 100% foreign ownership (no local sponsor required)
- Full profit repatriation and zero import/export duty
- Strategic location between Asia, Africa, and Europe
- Simplified company formation process
- Modern warehouses, offices, and customizable land plots
- Access to Ras Al Khaimah Port, Saqr Port, and Dubai International Airport
With such benefits, business setup in free zone areas like RAKEZ is an ideal choice for investors looking for a balance of affordability, flexibility, and long term growth.
Why Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah Matters for UAE Entrepreneurs
Ras Al Khaimah’s business ecosystem complements the UAE’s vision of diversifying its economy beyond oil. It offers investors affordable licensing options compared to Dubai or Sharjah while still maintaining global connectivity and regulatory support.
The RAK government has actively streamlined its regulations through RAKEZ, the Department of Economic Development (DED Ras Al Khaimah), and collaboration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for VAT registration and compliance.
Whether you’re establishing a trading company, manufacturing plant, or consulting firm, business setup in Ras Al Khaimah offers:
- Lower operational and setup costs
- Easy access to UAE mainland and global markets
- Multiple visa options for investors and employees
- Stable business environment backed by UAE federal laws
This makes it a smart choice for investors who want to expand into the UAE market without high overheads.
Step by Step Guide: How to Set Up a Business in RAK Free Zone
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Decide the nature of your business. RAKEZ offers over 1,500 licensed activities across sectors like:
- Trading and general commerce
- Consultancy and services
- Industrial and manufacturing
- Media and education
- E-commerce and technology
Each activity type determines the kind of license you’ll need and the number of visas you can apply for.
Step 2: Select the Company Type
RAKEZ allows several company structures, such as:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): For a single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): For two or more shareholders.
- Branch of a Local or Foreign Company: For existing UAE or international firms expanding to RAK.
Step 3: Choose a Business Facility
RAK offers diverse options depending on your business needs and budget:
- Flexi Desks & Shared Offices (for startups and freelancers)
- Standard Offices & Business Centers
- Warehouses & Industrial Land (for manufacturers and logistics firms)
- Custom built Facilities within the RAKEZ industrial zones
Step 4: Register the Company Name
Select and reserve your trade name through RAKEZ’s online portal. The name must comply with UAE naming regulations – avoiding religious terms, political references, or duplicate trade names.
Step 5: Submit Documents & Pay Fees
Provide all required documents such as:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Business plan (for certain activities)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or tenancy contract)
- NOC (for UAE residents under employment visa)
After submission, you’ll receive initial approval and payment instructions.
Step 6: Obtain License and Establishment Card
Once all formalities are completed, RAKEZ issues your business license and establishment card. You can then open a corporate bank account, apply for visas, and begin operations.
Step 7: Apply for UAE Residence Visa
RAKEZ offers investor, partner, and employee visa packages with varying validity periods.
Ras Al Khaimah free zone visa rules allow flexible options, from single investor visas to multi employee sponsorships, based on your selected facility size and business activity.
Documents Required for RAK Free Zone Company Setup
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport size photos (white background)
- UAE entry stamp or residence visa (if applicable)
- Proof of address (recent utility bill)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
- Board resolution (for corporate shareholders)
RAK Free Zone Company Setup Cost (2025-26 Overview)
One of the most appealing aspects of business setup in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone is its affordability.
Approximate setup cost:
- Service / Consultancy License: AED 8,000 to 10,000
- Commercial / Trading License: AED 10,000 to 15,000
- Industrial License: AED 15,000 to 20,000 (plus warehouse rental)
Visa packages and office space options can affect the total cost.
At Nines Consultancy, we help you estimate your exact RAK Free Zone company setup cost with a detailed quotation covering license fees, visa costs, and banking assistance.
Business Setup Timeline
RAK Free Zone setup is known for its efficiency.
- Trade Name Approval: 1 to 2 days
- Initial Approval & Document Submission: 2 to 3 days
- License Issuance: 3 to 5 working days
In total, you can expect your business to be operational within 7 to 10 working days.
Benefits of Setting Up a Business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
1. 100% Ownership & Repatriation
No local sponsor required and complete control over profits and operations.
2. Tax Free Environment
Zero corporate and personal income taxes, with simple VAT registration under UAE’s FTA.
3. Cost Effective Setup
Among the most affordable free zone business setup costs in the UAE.
4. Strategic Connectivity
Proximity to major ports, airports, and highways connecting the UAE with GCC and international markets.
5. Easy Visa & Banking Process
Investor and employee visa packages available, with assistance for corporate bank account opening.
Why Choose Nines Consultancy for RAK Business Setup
At Nines Consultancy, we make your RAK business setup effortless. Our experts handle every aspect, from selecting the right license and preparing documentation to liaising with RAKEZ authorities and ensuring compliance.
Here’s what you get with us:
- Transparent pricing and no hidden charges
- End to end documentation and PRO support
- Dedicated consultant for every client
- Assistance with visa and corporate bank account setup
- UAE wide coverage (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and RAK)
Ready to start?
Book a free consultation today or chat with us on WhatsApp
Or call us directly at +971529757543
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much does it cost to set up a business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone?
The cost of setting up a business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone depends on several factors including your chosen business activity, type of license, office space, and visa requirements. Typically, a service or consultancy license starts around AED 8,000, while commercial and trading licenses range between AED 10,000 to AED 15,000. Industrial and manufacturing setups may cost between AED 15,000 and AED 20,000 due to warehouse and utility requirements. The advantage of choosing RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) is that it offers flexible payment plans, multiple visa packages, and bundled office solutions suitable for startups and large enterprises alike. At Nines Consultancy, we provide a transparent quotation including your license cost, visa, and documentation fees so you can plan accurately without hidden charges. Our consultants ensure your business is set up within budget and fully compliant with UAE regulations.
2. Can I get a UAE residence visa through RAK Free Zone?
Yes, you can obtain a UAE residence visa through your company in the RAK Free Zone. Once your business is registered and your establishment card is issued, you can apply for an Investor, Partner, or Employee Visa under RAKEZ. Investor visas typically have a validity of 2 or 3 years and can be renewed easily. The number of visas you’re eligible for depends on the size of your selected office or facility type. For example, flexi-desk packages may allow 1–2 visas, while dedicated offices and warehouses allow more. The visa process includes medical testing, Emirates ID application, and visa stamping. One of the major benefits is that it allows you to sponsor family members as well. Nines Consultancy helps clients handle the entire visa process efficiently, ensuring compliance with RAK Free Zone visa rules and minimizing any delays in documentation or approvals.
3. What documents are required for company formation?
The documents needed for a RAK Free Zone company setup are straightforward and depend on your chosen structure (individual or corporate). Generally, you’ll need passport copies of shareholders and managers, passport-size photos, a recent utility bill or tenancy contract as proof of address, and a detailed business plan if you’re setting up a consultancy or industrial unit. For corporate shareholders, additional documents like a Board Resolution, Certificate of Incorporation, and Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA/AOA) are required. If any documents are issued outside the UAE, they must be notarized and attested by the UAE Embassy. At Nines Consultancy, we guide you through each step, from trade name reservation and document attestation to submission and approval. We ensure that your paperwork meets RAKEZ’s compliance standards and help avoid unnecessary rejections or delays in your business setup process.
4. Can I operate outside the free zone?
Yes, you can operate outside the Free Zone, but with some conditions. Companies established in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone can freely conduct international trade or do business with other free zones across the UAE. However, if you plan to trade directly within the UAE mainland, you must appoint a local distributor or commercial agent with a mainland license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED). This ensures compliance with UAE’s business regulations. Many investors choose this hybrid model, maintaining their Free Zone license for global operations while collaborating with mainland entities for local trade. At Nines Consultancy, we help you legally expand your business reach by offering both Free Zone and Mainland setup options. Our team assists in registering additional branches or distributors, ensuring smooth operations across all Emirates without legal complications or penalties.
5. How long does it take to complete the RAK company setup?
The RAK Free Zone business setup process is one of the fastest in the UAE. Typically, it takes around 7 to 10 working days from the time all documents are submitted and approvals are granted. The first phase includes trade name reservation (1 to 2 days), initial approval (2 to 3 days), and final license issuance (3 to 5 days). However, timelines can vary depending on your business activity, the number of shareholders, and the attestation requirements for foreign documents. RAKEZ’s digital portal makes the process efficient, reducing physical visits and paperwork. Partnering with Nines Consultancy ensures you don’t face unnecessary delays, we manage every step, from application and documentation to visa processing and bank account opening. Our goal is to help you launch your business quickly while ensuring compliance with RAK Free Zone authority regulations so you can focus on growth instead of paperwork.
Ras Al Khaimah is no longer a hidden gem it’s one of the UAE’s smartest choices for entrepreneurs seeking affordable and efficient business formation. With government support, modern infrastructure, and world class facilities, RAK Free Zone business setup empowers investors to launch and scale confidently.
Let Nines Consultancy handle the paperwork while you focus on your business vision.
Start your RAK Free Zone company today.
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