RAK Economic Free Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the UAE’s most active and highly efficient free zones, strategically located in the northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.
Rak economic free zone has been shining as a safe haven for both local & foreign business owners, giving birth to phenomenal entrepreneurs and MNC’s due to its all-inclusive growth structure.
Building a strong presence in the Middle East and beyond became fast and achievable. This has been proven repeatedly to be true from the real life examples of RAKEZ free zone company owners. Understanding the various business licenses, legal structures, and facility options available in RAKEZ is essential before you begin your setup journey.
Choosing the perfect blend, whether it’s a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), a branch of a foreign company, or a freelancer permit can have exceptional influence on your initial costs, operational flexibility, visa eligibility, and long-term scalability. This blog will walk you through the key steps, considerations, documents required and step by step process to company formation, to help you make informed decisions and navigate the RAKEZ free zone setup process with confidence.
Step 1: Understanding the Needs of your Business
Let’s first check the 8 types of licenses and which one best fits your RAKEZ Freezone setup:
1) Types of Licenses
a) Commercial License – For companies involved in trading operations (such as import/export, wholesale, and retail
b) Service License – For companies providing consulting or professional services (e.g., marketing, IT, legal, management consulting
c) Industrial License- For manufacturing, production, or industrial activities, Includes warehousing, processing, packaging, and assembly.
d) E-commerce License – For online trading and selling products or services via digital platforms.
e) General Trading License – A broader version of the commercial license that allows trading in a wider range of goods under a single license.
f) Educational License – For institutions involved in educational and training services, includes schools and training centers.
g) Media License – For companies in the media and creative industries (e.g., advertising, public relations and content creation).
h) Freelancer Permit- Allows individuals to work as independent professionals in permitted fields, Ideal for solo entrepreneurs.
2) Now let’s Check the Legal Entity Types.
i. Free zone entity:
a) Free Zone Establishment (FZE)- Single shareholder can be an individual or a company.
b) Free Zone Limited Liability Company(FZ-LLC) – 2 to 50 shareholders, Ideal for partnerships or small groups of investors.
ii. Branches:
a) Branch of a Local Company – For UAE-registered companies planning to expand into RAKEZ.
b) Branch of a Foreign Company – For international companies establishing a presence in RAKEZ.
3) Now Let’s Check Out the Facilities.
a) Flexi Facilities (Flexi Desks & Flexi Offices) – Shared workstations or small enclosed offices in a co-working environment. Cost-effective and minimal physical presence. Best For: Freelancers, consultants, e-commerce startups, service providers.
b) Shell & Core Offices – To custom-design the workspace. Raw, unfinished office spaces. You’re free to do custom fit-outs. Best For: Businesses with specific layout or brand experience needs.
c) Standard Offices – Private, ready-to-move-in office units. Best For: SMEs, professional service providers, consulting firms.
d) Warehouses – For storage, logistics, assembly & light industrial use. Best For: Trading companies, e-commerce storage, manufacturers.
e) Executive Offices – Premium, professional workspaces with top-tier amenities. Best For: Legal firms, investment companies, regional headquarters, VIP clientele-focused firms.
f) Land for Development – Long-term business plans requiring large-scale infrastructure or custom-built facilities.Best For: Manufacturing plants, logistics hubs, industrial complexes, data centers.
Step 2: Submitting your Application, Documents and Payment
Required Documents- For Natural Person
a) Choosing a trade name for registration (propose 3 names in preference order)
b) Completing the application for registration and licensing (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone).
c) Copy of UAE Visas (if applicable).
d) E-channel registration – for visa application (timeline 1-2 working days).
e) Business plan (if applicable)
f) Colour passport copy (Security approval & passport verification).
g) Copy of Emirates ID (if applicable).
Additional Requirements for Legal Person (Corporate Structure)
h) Filling out the Ultimate Beneficial Ownership (UBO) Declaration Form.
i) Board Resolution to establish a new company in RAKEZ.
j) Copy of valid trade license or incorporation certificate. k) After pre approval from Immigration, signing Memorandum(MOA)and Articles of Association (AOA). l) Certificate of Registration
m) Certificate of Good Standing (if applicable).
Step 3: Processing Business Setup in RAKEZ
First: Define Business Requirements
• Choose your business activity.
• Select a license type.
• Choose your legal structure.
• Decide on a facility type.
Second: Submit Application and Documents
• Fill out the Business Setup Application Form.
• Submit the required documents mentioned above
Third: Review and Initial Approval
• RAKEZ will conduct a due diligence check.
• Once approved, you’ll receive a Provisional Approval.
Fourth: Payment of Fees
• Pay the license fee, facility lease, and visa package.
• Fees vary based on business activity, facility type, and number of visas required
Fifth: Sign Lease and Incorporation Documents
• Sign the lease agreement for your selected facility.
• Sign company formation documents.
Sixth: Issuance of License and Company Documents
You will receive:
• Trade License
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Lease Agreement
• Share Certificate(s)
• Company Memorandum/Articles of Association
Congratulations you have officially established your Business in RAKEZ!
A successful business starts way before the license is issued. It begins with creating a clear blueprint of your business model.
Understanding the most ideal environment for your RAKEZ free zone setup is an essential step that can save time, reduce unnecessary expenses, and pave the path for a sustainable growth.
Equally important is being well-prepared with the required documents. Ensuring that your documentation is complete, accurate, and properly attested can prevent delays and facilitate a smoother registration process.
By following a structured, step-by-step approach, from defining your business activity and submitting your application to securing your trade license and setting up operations.
You’ll be positioned for a streamlined and efficient entry into one of the UAE’s most supportive economic zones. With the right preparation and insight, RAKEZ offers not just a place to register your business, but a platform to thrive and expand. RAKEZ free zone companies flourish under the expert guidance of Smart EZone as we specialize in empowering entrepreneurs and corporations to navigate their business.
From selecting the right business model to handling document preparation and license issuance, our team ensures a seamless and hassle-free company incorporation experience.
Contact us today to get expert guidance and launch your business in RAKEZ with confidence. Let’s build your future, together.
