Home/ UAE Free Zones/ Ras Al Khaimah/ RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)

RAKEZ
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone

RAKEZ, formed in 2017 from the merger of RAK Free Trade Zone and RAK Investment Authority, now hosts more than 18,000 companies and is consistently 20 to 30 percent cheaper than comparable Dubai free zones. Licences start from around AED 6,000, dedicated industrial zones at Al Hamra and Al Ghail support genuine manufacturing, and a RAKEZ residency visa carries full UAE-wide residence rights, including the right to live in Dubai.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorRas Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
LocationRas Al Khaimah, UAE, near Saqr Port
Launched2017 (merger of RAK Free Trade Zone, operating since 2000, and RAK Investment Authority)
Companies Hosted18,000+ companies across 50+ industries
Designated Zone Partial (specific industrial zones only)
Entry-Level LicenceFrom approx. AED 6,000 to 8,240 (zero visa)
One-Visa PackageFrom approx. AED 11,440 to 14,000
Licence Issuance SpeedInstant Licence option, as fast as 24 hours
RAKEZ REGISTERED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
RAKEZ Certificate of Partnership

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

What Is RAKEZ?

RAKEZ, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, is one of the UAE’s leading destinations for RAKEZ business setup and company incorporation. Formed in 2017 through the merger of the RAK Free Trade Zone (operating since 2000) and the RAK Investment Authority, it created a unified authority for business licensing and investment. Today, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone company formation supports more than 18,000 companies across over 50 industries, from freelance professionals to heavy manufacturers, making it one of the region’s largest economic zones by company count.

RAKEZ’s core pitch is straightforward: meaningfully lower cost than equivalent Dubai or Abu Dhabi free zones, commonly cited at 20 to 30 percent less on licence fees and office rents, combined with proximity to Saqr Port and genuine industrial land at Al Hamra and Al Ghail for businesses that actually need to manufacture rather than just hold a licence. A RAKEZ residency visa also grants the right to live anywhere in the UAE, including Dubai, which addresses a common concern that a Ras Al Khaimah company somehow restricts where an investor or employee can actually reside. This combination of affordability, industrial infrastructure and flexible licensing makes RAKEZ business setup one of the most cost-effective options for entrepreneurs and manufacturers entering the UAE.

The Ecosystem

Three Zones Under One Authority

Industrial Zones

Al Hamra & Al Ghail

Dedicated industrial zones offering genuine manufacturing land, warehouses and stable power supply for heavy and light industry.

Location

Near Saqr Port

Close to Saqr Port for shipping, import and export, with some of the UAE’s most competitive operating costs.

Licensing

Instant Licence Option

A trade licence can be issued in as fast as 24 hours once your documentation is complete.

Ideal Profiles

Who Is RAKEZ For?

Businesses seeking affordable Ras Al Khaimah company formation with access to UAE residency, industrial facilities and international trading advantages often choose RAKEZ over higher-cost alternatives.

SMEs, Traders & E-Commerce

Cost-conscious SMEs, traders and e-commerce businesses serving international or online customers.

Freelancers & Creative Professionals

Freelancers and creative professionals in media, education, IT and consultancy seeking an affordable, legitimate invoicing structure.

Manufacturers & Industrial Operators

Manufacturers and industrial operators needing genuine production land, supported by dedicated zones at Al Hamra and Al Ghail.

Free Zone + Mainland Hybrid

Companies wanting to combine free zone and mainland activity through RAKEZ’s dual licence or its exclusive “Global Product” mid-shore offering.

Founders Seeking UAE Residency

Founders who want UAE residency without needing the company’s registered address to be in Dubai specifically.

Not Suitable For

Businesses where the registered address itself needs Dubai-specific brand weight for clients or banks, even though RAKEZ residency visas carry full UAE-wide residence rights.

Sector Profile

What RAKEZ Is Famous For

RAKEZ business setup is widely recognized for providing one of the UAE’s most cost-effective environments for manufacturing and industrial businesses, with significantly lower land, warehouse and operating costs than many Dubai or Abu Dhabi free zones. Its tenant base includes Indian and Pakistani manufacturers, steel and ceramic tile producers, food processing companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers and building materials businesses that need UAE manufacturing credentials but cannot absorb Dubai Industrial City’s premium land pricing.

The Core Commercial Case

RAKEZ solves the manufacturing-cost-viability problem for mid-scale producers. A ceramics manufacturer competing on price in GCC markets cannot justify AED 400 per square metre per year for factory space in Dubai Industrial City when RAKEZ offers equivalent manufacturing space in Ras Al Khaimah at materially lower rates. With Ras Al Khaimah also offering the lowest residential costs in the UAE for employee accommodation, the total cost of operating a manufacturing business at RAKEZ, land, utilities, labour, housing, can be 30-40% below comparable Dubai operations. For manufacturers competing on production cost rather than premium pricing, this cost differential is the margin that determines whether the business is viable.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

Partial. The main RAKEZ business zones are not Designated Zones under Cabinet Decision No. 59; however, specific RAK industrial zones managed under the RAKEZ authority umbrella (including Al Hamra, Al Ghail, Al Hulaila Industrial Zones, RAK Maritime City Free Zone and RAK Airport Free Zone) are designated. Companies should confirm their specific location and zone status with RAKEZ at setup, as the designation status depends on which RAKEZ park or facility they occupy.

Structures & Requirements

Licence Types, Company Structures & Share Capital

Explore the licence types and company structures available in RAKEZ.

Licensing

License Types Available

General Trading Licence: For import, export, storage and distribution across a wide range of products.
Professional / Service Licence: For consultants, designers, educators and other knowledge-based service providers.
Industrial / Manufacturing Licence: For manufacturing, processing, packaging and assembly, with access to industrial zones at Al Hamra and Al Ghail.
Media and Creative Licence: For freelance operators and agencies in media, content creation and communications.
E-Commerce Licence: For online retail and marketplace selling.
Freelancer Permit: For individual professionals trading under their own name.
A RAKEZ licence can typically hold up to seven activities within the same category, with an all-inclusive licence option allowing roughly up to ten mixed activities across categories under one licence.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

FZE

Free Zone Establishment: a single shareholder, individual or corporate.

FZC

Free Zone Company: two or more shareholders.

Branch / Department of a Foreign Company

For existing companies establishing a RAK presence.

Requirements
Reserve a unique trade name, held for 90 days while the rest of setup is completed.
Submit your registration form, short business plan and passport copies of shareholders and managers.
RAKEZ’s company register is not open to the public, adding shareholder confidentiality.
Visas & Workspace

Visa quotas depend on workspace, with flexi-desks typically supporting up to 2 visas and larger offices supporting more. RAKEZ Instant Licences can be issued within 24 hours, while residence visas usually take 3–4 weeks.

Setup Costs

RAKEZ Business Setup Cost at a Glance

The RAKEZ business setup cost depends on the license type, visa allocation and workspace selected. Entrepreneurs looking for RAKEZ company formation cost estimates should also consider visa fees, office requirements and annual license renewal costs.

Zero-Visa Licence (Up to 6 Activities)

From approx. AED 6,000 to 8,240.

One-Visa All-Inclusive Licence

From approx. AED 11,440 to 14,000.

Freelancer Permit

Approx. AED 6,000 to 10,000, activity dependent.

Investor Visa

Approx. AED 4,000 to 4,500.

RAKEZ Cost Calculator

Not sure what your business setup will cost? Receive a personalised, itemised quote based on your activity, licence and company structure—in under 2 minutes.

Prefer to talk it through first? Book a free consultation call.

Formation Guide

The 5-Step RAKEZ Formation Process

Five stages from activity selection to a fully operational bank account. Each links to a full guide below.

1
Choose Activity & Licence
1 – 2 business days
Choose your business activity and corresponding licence category (Trading, Service, Industrial, Media or Freelance).
2
Structure, Name & Application
1 – 3 business days
Choose your legal structure (FZE, FZC, or Branch), reserve a trade name, and submit your registration form with passport copies.
3
Pay & Receive Licence
As fast as 24 hours
Pay registration and licence fees and receive your trade licence, with Instant Licence eligible applications issued within 24 hours.
4
Visas
3 – 4 weeks
Apply for UAE residency visas under your workspace’s quota, including the in-person medical test and Emirates ID biometric appointment.
5
Bank Account
4 – 6 weeks
Open a corporate bank account, supported by RAKEZ’s standing with banks including Mashreq and Wio.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose RAKEZ

Three Zone Types Under One Authority

Academic, Industrial and Business zones under a single free zone authority accommodate education institutions, heavy manufacturers and general business operators without requiring separate regulatory relationships.

UAE’s Most Competitive Cost Base for Employees

RAK’s residential and commercial costs are meaningfully lower than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, translating into lower employee accommodation, transport and operational expenses for businesses that base employees in the emirate.

RAKEZ Global Product for Mid-Shore Holdings

A mid-shore holding option with a UAE free zone address distinct from standard free zone entities and from pure offshore structures.

Dual Licence with RAK Mainland DED

RAKEZ entities can apply for a concurrent RAK mainland DED licence, enabling direct UAE mainland market access without forming a separate entity.

Industrial Land at Competitive Rates

Land and warehouse leasing at rates that are structurally lower than comparable Dubai industrial free zones, relevant for capital-intensive manufacturing businesses.

Consider Alternatives

When RAKEZ May Not Be the Right Fit

Dubai or Abu Dhabi Flagship Address

If you need a Dubai or Abu Dhabi flagship address for client-facing credibility, IFZA, DMCC or Meydan will carry more weight with UAE-based banks and international clients than a Ras Al Khaimah address.

Port-Adjacent Large-Scale Logistics

If your business requires port-adjacent large-scale logistics infrastructure, JAFZA’s Jebel Ali Port is a better fit for high-volume sea freight operations.

Regulated Financial Services

If your financial services activity requires DFSA, FSRA or any other regulated financial services licensing, DIFC or ADGM are the only appropriate frameworks.

Commodity, Precious Metals or Crypto

If commodity trading, precious metals or crypto activity is the core business, DMCC’s sector-specific infrastructure and Tradeflow platform are not replicated by RAKEZ.

IncHub compares RAKEZ against IFZA, JAFZA and Dubai options before recommending it; RAKEZ is strongest when industrial manufacturing, cost-conscious staffing and Northern Emirates entry cost are all genuine priorities.

Free Zone Comparison

RAKEZ vs IFZA vs JAFZA

RAKEZ, IFZA and JAFZA take very different approaches to cost, manufacturing and logistics. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs, not just the most recognisable name.

Factor RAKEZ IFZA JAFZA
Core Industries Manufacturing, industrial, trading, freelancers Professional services, SMEs, e-commerce Logistics, import-export, distribution
Major Infrastructure Al Hamra & Al Ghail industrial zones + Saqr Port Dubai commercial office hubs Jebel Ali Port + industrial parks
Manufacturing & Industrial Land Excellent Limited Moderate
Port & Logistics Access Moderate Limited Excellent (Jebel Ali)
Regulated Financial Services No pathway No pathway No pathway
Cost of Operations Lowest (Northern Emirates) Low-mid Mid
Entry-Level Licence Cost From AED 6,000 (zero visa) Activity dependent Higher
Ideal Company Types Manufacturers, traders, freelancers, e-commerce Consultants, SMEs, online businesses Logistics, trade, large-scale distribution

IncHub holds direct relationships across the UAE’s free zones, helping you choose the one that best fits your sector and regulatory needs, not just the one with the strongest brand.

Compliance

What RAKEZ Companies Must Stay Compliant With

Standard UAE compliance requirements, including corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence and visa renewals, and FTA amendments, are covered in IncHub’s UAE Free Zone Compliance Guide at www.inchub.ae/uae-free-zone-compliance. RAKEZ-specific obligations are listed below.

Annual Audit

RAKEZ companies should confirm the current annual audit requirement for their specific zone type and entity at setup; industrial and manufacturing entities may have stricter audit requirements than standard business zone entities.

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Companies carrying out a relevant activity, including holding, distribution and service centre, intellectual property, headquarters, shipping, fund management, banking, insurance, lease-finance, and high-risk IP activities, must file annual ESR notifications and, where applicable, full ESR reports with the FTA. First-violation penalties are AED 50,000 rising to AED 400,000 on repetition.

Industrial Environmental Compliance

Manufacturing and industrial companies at RAKEZ must maintain compliance with Ras Al Khaimah environmental and industrial safety regulations. Companies in the industrial zone with processes involving chemical handling, waste discharge or atmospheric emissions should confirm applicable RAK Environment and Natural Resources Authority requirements at setup.

RAKEZ Compliance Guide

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations for free zone companies corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence and visa renewal, and FTA amendments covered in one detailed guide.

Want IncHub to manage compliance for your RAKEZ company? Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Compliance Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up companies in RAKEZ and across the UAE.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

Google Verified Review
D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

Google Verified Review
C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

Google Verified Review
B
BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

Google Verified Review
A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

Google Verified Review
O
Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

Google Verified Review
U
Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

Google Verified Review
E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

Google Verified Review
C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

Google Verified Review
T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

Google Verified Review
N
Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

Google Verified Review
W
Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

Google Verified Review
T
Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

Google Verified Review
G
Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

Google Verified Review
N
Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

Google Verified Review
M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

Google Verified Review
J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

Google Verified Review
D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

Google Verified Review
P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

Google Verified Review
A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

Google Verified Review
Work With IncHub

How IncHub Can Help You Set Up in RAKEZ

IncHub supports RAKEZ business setup for trading, industrial, freelance and e-commerce businesses, managing the complete Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone company formation process from licence selection through company incorporation, visa processing, banking assistance and ongoing compliance. Our specialists also advise on dual licence structuring, Global Product entities and environmental compliance for industrial operations.

OUR SERVICES FOR COMPANY FORMATION IN RAKEZ
Free zone suitability assessment comparing RAKEZ against SHAMS, SPC and Dubai options for your specific activity and budget
Zone type selection (Academic, Industrial or Business) based on operational requirements
RAKEZ Global Product mid-shore entity structuring for international holding requirements
Dual licence structuring for RAK mainland DED market access
Industrial environmental compliance guidance for manufacturing operations
Investor & employee visa processing, medical and Emirates ID coordination
Corporate bank account introduction with RAK-based and UAE-mainland banking partners
Annual audit coordination, ESR notification, UBO maintenance & FTA amendment management
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with IncHub

Set Up Your RAKEZ Company with IncHub

IncHub manages the full RAKEZ process end-to-end free zone suitability assessment and zone type selection, licence selection and instant licence activation, Global Product mid-shore structuring, dual licence coordination for RAK mainland access, industrial environmental compliance guidance, visa processing, bank account introduction, and ongoing ESR and audit compliance. One partner, from application to fully operational.

Al Fajer Business Centre, Al Garhoud, Dubai  |  www.inchub.ae