How to Start a Business in the RAKEZ Free Zone: A Complete Guide
Looking to start a business in the UAE? The Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the most affordable and investor-friendly options for business setup in UAE. Whether you’re a startup, freelancer, or an established business expanding into the region, RAKEZ offers cost-effective packages, strategic location benefits, and simplified licensing.
With over 15,000 companies across 50+ industries already operating in the free zone, RAKEZ company formation is growing in popularity as an alternative to business setup in Dubai, especially for those seeking lower operational costs.
Why Choose RAK Free Zone?
- 100% foreign ownership
- ECONOMICAL BUSINESS HUB
- CUSTOMISED SOLUTIONS
- Low-cost licenses and visa packages
- No personal or corporate income tax
- Access to UAE residency visas
- Dual license structure (operate in Free Zone + Mainland)
- Modern infrastructure & logistics access
- Business-friendly government regulations
RAK Free Zone is strategically positioned near Saqr Port and RAK International Airport, allowing smooth trade and logistics within the UAE and beyond.
RAK Free Zone Business Structures
Step-by-Step: Start a Business in RAK Free Zone
- Trading
- Consultancy
- E-commerce
- Industrial & Manufacturing
- Educational & Media Services
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZC) – 2 to 50 shareholders
- Branch of Foreign or UAE Company
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Follow UAE naming conventions (no religious or offensive terms) and register your trade name via RAKEZ.
- Commercial License
- Industrial License
- General Trading License
- E-commerce License
- Service/Professional License
- Freelancer Permit
- Educational & Media License
- Coworking desks
- Serviced or executive offices
- Warehouses and industrial land
- On-site staff accommodation
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Two passport-size photos
- Entry visa & stamp pages
- Application form
- Business plan (for certain activities)
- Establishment card
- Entry permit
- Medical test & Emirates ID
- UAE residence visa (valid 2–3 years)
Cost of Starting a Business in RAKEZ
- Number of visas required
- Office/facility size
- Additional approvals or NOCs
- Tailored business setup packages
- Special support for opening UAE bank accounts
- Easy collaboration with Indian partners & investors
- Reduced barriers with familiar legal and compliance structure
RAKEZ’s partnerships with banks make it easier to access business banking and finance solutions.
- Real Estate & Property Investment
- Tourism & Hospitality Businesses
- Construction Materials Manufacturing
- Insurance & Financial Services
- E-commerce & Online Businesses
When setting up your business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone, choosing the right license is critical. RAKEZ offers a wide range of business licenses to suit different industries and company types.
1. Commercial License
Allows the buying, selling, importing, and exporting of goods or commodities. Ideal for trading and general business activities.
2. General Trading License
Grants broader trading rights, allowing multiple product lines under one license.
3. Service License / Professional License
Suitable for professionals providing consultancy, technical, or specialized services across sectors like legal, HR, IT, or marketing.
4. E-Commerce License
Designed for online businesses engaged in selling products or services via websites, apps, or marketplaces.
5. Industrial License
Covers manufacturing, production, packaging, and assembly of products. Includes access to warehouses and land for large-scale operations.
6. Educational License
Issued to institutions offering educational, training, or tutoring services.
7. Media License
Ideal for advertising agencies, production houses, digital media firms, and publishing companies.
8. Freelancer Permit
Allows individuals to legally operate as freelancers under their own name in fields like media, tech, education, or design.
Each license can be customized based on your business model and visa requirement. KrezKo assists with end-to-end support in selecting the right RAKEZ license, ensuring full compliance and cost-efficiency.
Planning your business setup in RAK Free Zone (RAKEZ)? Ensuring you have the correct documentation in place is the first step toward a smooth and successful company formation process. Below is the list of essential documents needed for RAKEZ company registration:
1. Passport Copy of Shareholder(s)
2. Passport-Size Photographs
3. Visa or Entry Stamp Page
4. Business Activity Details
5. NOC (No Objection Certificate)
6. Application Form
7. Utility Bill or Proof of Address
8. Power of Attorney (If applicable)
Need help gathering and verifying your documents? KrezKo offers full support for RAK Free Zone company setup, ensuring your paperwork is complete and compliant — from license approval to UAE residence visa processing.
Ready to set up your company in the RAK Free Zone? Whether you’re choosing an FZE, FZC, or branch office, KrezKo makes the business setup in UAE fast, affordable, and hassle-free. Our expert consultants will guide you through every step – from trade license application to Dubai company registration. Don’t wait to start your business in one of the UAE’s most cost-effective free zones. Contact KrezKo today and launch your RAK Free Zone company with confidence!