Business setup in Ras Al Khaimah: RAKEZ, RAK ICC and why founders choose RAK
Cost-efficient free zone setups, a holding-company registry and fast-growing tourism. How to set up a business in Ras Al Khaimah and who it suits.
Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate, has become a popular choice for founders who want a UAE company with lower running costs, space for industry, and access to a tourism market that is growing quickly.
Your options in Ras Al Khaimah
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone): free zone and non-free-zone licences for trading, services, e-commerce, media and industry, plus warehouses and industrial land
- RAK ICC (RAK International Corporate Centre): a corporate registry for holding companies and asset ownership, not for trading inside the UAE
- RAK Department of Economic Development: mainland licences for businesses serving local customers
Why founders pick RAK
- Often lower setup and renewal costs than Dubai
- Industrial land and warehouses for manufacturing and logistics
- Under an hour's drive from Dubai for many locations
- Tourism growth, led by Al Marjan Island and the Wynn integrated resort scheduled to open in 2027
Who it suits
- Traders, manufacturers and e-commerce businesses
- Consultants and freelancers wanting a low-cost base
- Hospitality, tourism and property-related businesses on the RAK coast
- Holding companies via RAK ICC
Common questions
Can a RAKEZ company work with clients in Dubai?
Yes for services and online sales to clients anywhere. For physical trading into the UAE mainland, check your licence type or use a distributor.
Can I get a Golden Visa through RAK property?
Property worth at least AED 2 million, off-plan or complete, can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa. Confirm the current conditions with the authority.
Rules, fees and processes change. Confirm the details with the relevant authority or a licensed adviser before you commit.
Read next
- Ras Al Khaimah real estate and business
- Sharjah, Ajman, RAK and Fujairah free zones
- The complete UAE business guide