UAE Business License
You get complete foreign ownership, attractive tax advantages, and an easy company formation process. Business activities are usually restricted to the Free Zone area or overseas markets.
RAKEZ Free Zone Company Formation
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) serves as a major business hub, uniting the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) and the RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA) under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Strategically located in the UAE, it connects investors across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and South and Central Asia. As a prominent center for trade, manufacturing, and logistics, RAKEZ attracts a wide range of enterprises—from startups to multinational corporations—seeking growth in a dynamic, investor-friendly environment.
At Ventures Biz, we recognize how crucial a smooth business setup is in the RAKEZ free zone. Our expert team helps entrepreneurs reach their goals by simplifying the process, guiding them through regulations, securing RAKEZ licenses, and arranging key services—ensuring every step of establishing your business in this dynamic hub is handled with efficiency.
Experience a seamless RAKEZ Business Setup journey with our expert assistance. Contact us today!
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a leading business and economic hub in the UAE, spread across 33 million square meters. It stands as one of the largest free zones, hosting over 18,000 companies from more than 100 countries and 50+ sectors, including startups, SMEs, and global manufacturers. With affordable solutions, modern facilities, customized packages, and strong global connectivity, RAKEZ has become a preferred choice for company formation and licensing in the UAE.
- RAKEZ facilitates both free zone and non-free zone setups, offering customizable solutions to meet the unique needs of businesses.
- RAKEZ comprises six distinct field-specific zones, each designed to cater to specific business needs and industries.
Benefits of Business Setup in RAKEZ Free Zone
RAKEZ provides numerous benefits to its affiliated companies, including:
- Authorization for more than 4,000 business activities within Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ).
- Affordable company setup packages with RAKEZ.
- Choice of free zone and non-free zone business structures.
- Company formation possible remotely, without visiting the UAE.
- Simplified documentation process for establishing a company.
- Dedicated areas for industrial, academic, and commercial activities.
- Streamlined procedures for company registration.
- Minimum capital requirement of AED 10,000 (AED 15,000 for industrial ventures).
- Ability to conduct multiple activities under a single RAKEZ license.
- Full repatriation of capital and profits.
- Zero corporate and personal income tax.
- Ready-to-use flexi desks, flexi offices, and private office spaces available.
- Access to warehousing and storage solutions.
- Land provided for manufacturing, logistics, and service industries.
- On-site staff and labor accommodation facilities.
- Business community of over 14,000 companies from 50+ countries.
- Investors and employees can sponsor their families.
- Investor visas allow free travel across GCC countries.
Types of RAKEZ Free Zone Companies
The legal structures of RAKEZ companies vary based on whether they are established in the free zone areas or non-free zone areas of the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone. The distinctions between these types are summarized in the table below:
| Zone | Legal Form | Number of Shareholders | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAKEZ free zone | Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) | One to fifty (1–50) |
|
| RAKEZ non-free zone | Individual Establishment | One (1) |
|
| RAKEZ non-free zone | Limited Liability Company (LLC) | Two to fifty (2–50) |
|
| RAKEZ non-free zone | Branches of companies incorporated inside or outside of the UAE | N/A |
|
RAKEZ Free Zone Business License
To operate a business in the UAE, acquiring a valid business license is mandatory. Likewise, setting up a company in Ras Al Khaimah requires obtaining a business license specific to the emirate. Whether you are a startup planning to grow in Ras Al Khaimah, an established business aiming to expand, or an entrepreneur wanting to offer multiple products and services under one entity across the UAE, there are different types of business licenses designed to meet these requirements.
Types of RAKEZ Business Licenses
Below is a list of the various types of business licenses issued by RAKEZ:
Commercial License:
Authorizes businesses to trade in goods and services, providing the legal framework to operate within these sectors.
Educational License:
Grants permission to establish educational institutions or consultancy firms, ensuring adherence to education-related regulations and standards.
E-Commerce License:Allows businesses to sell goods and services online, supporting digital commerce operations in compliance with relevant regulations.
General Trading License:
Enables trading in a wide range of goods, allowing businesses to expand their product offerings across multiple categories.
Individual/Professional License:
Designed for single owners conducting a specific activity within their field of expertise, ensuring compliance with professional standards.
Industrial License:
Meant for companies engaged in manufacturing, importing, packaging, or exporting products, covering all legal requirements for industrial operations.
Media License:
Permits media-related business activities while ensuring compliance with broadcasting and media laws.
Professional License:
For individuals offering professional services, ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications and industry standards.
Service License:
Allows businesses to provide services or consultancy in any sector, establishing a legal foundation for service-oriented operations.
Freelancer Permit:
Specifically for professionals in media, education, IT, and analysis, enabling freelance work while adhering to industry-specific regulations.
RAKEZ Dual License
The RAKEZ Dual License merges commercial and professional activities into one license, allowing businesses to operate smoothly across the UAE, including both mainland and free zone areas. This dual license includes a UAE free zone license as well as a branch license for a UAE free zone company.
Before starting the business license application, it is essential to identify the company’s intended activities and decide on the legal structure, such as a sole proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), or holding company.
If you need help choosing the right business license or managing the company setup process—including preparing documents, submitting applications, and completing payments—RAKEZ’s company formation specialists are ready to support you every step of the way.
RAKEZ Specialized Zones
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) offers dedicated zones tailored to particular industries, promoting streamlined operations and business expansion.
- RAKEZ Business Zone: Designed for trading, service, and consultancy companies, the RAKEZ Business Zone offers essential facilities and support for smooth business operations.
- Al Hamra Industrial Zone: Supporting both light and heavy industries, Al Hamra Industrial Zone enables free zone and non-free zone businesses to operate efficiently with modern infrastructure.
- Al Ghail Industrial Zone: Al Ghail Industrial Zone is built for large-scale industrial manufacturing, providing both free zone and non-free zone companies with ample space and resources.
- Al Hulaila Industrial Zone: Focused on heavy industrial production, Al Hulaila Industrial Zone is equipped to manage large industrial projects with the necessary infrastructure and support services.
- RAKEZ Academic Zone: The RAKEZ Academic Zone is dedicated to schools, universities, and academic consultancy services, fostering an environment that supports educational growth.
These dedicated zones in RAKEZ are tailored to accommodate various business requirements, promoting economic diversification and fostering growth in Ras Al Khaimah.
Documents Required for RAKEZ Free Zone Business Setup
The formation of a company with Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone requires the submission of the following documents:
- A colored copy of the passport or Emirates ID (for UAE residents).
- Copy of the visa along with the entry stamp (if the person is currently in the UAE).
- Original no-objection certificate for the general manager (for UAE residents).
- Business plan document.
- Shareholders’ resolution confirming the formation of the RAKEZ company and the appointment of the general manager (for corporate shareholders).
- Trade license or business registration certificate (for corporate shareholders).
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (for corporate shareholders).
- Certificates of good standing or incumbency certificate (for corporate shareholders).
Procedure for RAKEZ Business Setup
Detailed steps for starting a business in the UAE are outlined below. Ventures Biz can guide you through every stage of setting up your business in RAKZ.
Step 1: Decide on Company Name and Business Activities
The first step to starting a business in the UAE is to determine your business activities and select a company name. Make sure the activities are in line with the UAE’s approved list. Choose the appropriate license type based on your activities—commercial for trading, industrial for manufacturing, etc. Ensure your chosen name follows UAE naming rules and is available before moving forward with the license application.
Step 2: Identify Business Requirements
While you can apply for a standalone trade license, consider opting for a free zone package. These packages often provide extra advantages, such as visa eligibility, co-working spaces, or furnished offices. Packages may also include warehouses or land for business development.
Step 3: Submit the Application
After finalizing the company name, business activities, and license package requirements, submit your application. For mainland companies, apply via the Department of Economic Development or the relevant municipal authority. For free zone setups, submit your application directly to the free zone authority. Initial applications can often be completed online along with the necessary documents.
Step 4: Receive Your Business License
Once your application is approved, you will receive your business license, registration documents, and bank introduction letter. This step officially completes the licensing process and allows you to move forward with visa applications if needed.
Step 5: Apply for Your Visa
If your package includes visa eligibility, you can start the visa process after your license is issued. For individual visa applications, the process begins after receiving the trade license. The procedure includes submission of the visa application, medical testing, and biometric registration. Professionals at Ventures Biz can assist in completing this process efficiently.
Step 6: Open a Bank Account
The last step before starting operations is opening a UAE bank account. In free zones, a bank introduction letter is usually provided, allowing you to open an account with your preferred UAE bank. Ventures Biz can guide you to make this step seamless.
RAKEZ Free Zone Global Product for International Investors
RAKEZ presents an innovative Mid-Shore Free Zone Company model that merges the advantages of both offshore and free zone structures, making it an appealing choice for international investors looking to set up new companies or relocate existing overseas businesses. Through its tailored Business License Package, RAKEZ offers a wide range of business activities, including Commercial Services, E-Commerce, Media, General Trading, and Industrial Licenses. Investors can select from different operational options such as co-working spaces, dedicated offices, warehouses, or leased land, providing flexibility to match their requirements. This structure is especially advantageous for holding companies, trading and general trading firms, e-commerce ventures, and industrial manufacturers, supporting business growth and streamlined operations in a conducive environment.
Expert Guidance for Seamless Business Setup in RAKZ
Ventures Biz specialists are fully prepared to help you effortlessly establish your business in RAKZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone). With comprehensive expertise in local rules and procedures, our team can guide you through every step of the business setup. From selecting the appropriate legal structure and handling all required documentation to managing the application process, our experts make sure your business is launched in full compliance with RAKZ regulations.
With our expertise at your side, you can smoothly handle the complexities of business setup while concentrating on what matters most—your core operations. Whether you’re launching a new venture or managing an established company, Ventures Biz offers complete support to make setting up your business in RAKZ straightforward and stress-free.
Speed Up Your Dubai Business Journey with Ventures Biz
Visa & Residence
Contact Us
- Burjuman Business Tower, Shaikh Zayed Street, Al Mankhool, DUBAI | UAE
- info@venturesbiz.com
- venturesbizfze@gmail.com
- +971553710760