RAKEZ Free Zone
Company Setup

RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) is a government-established free zone in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Gulf coast, roughly 45 minutes from Dubai. It’s one of the UAE’s largest multi-sector free zones, covering more than 50 industries.

Costs depend on your licence type, number of visas and facility (flexi-desk, office or warehouse). Wise Cat builds a package around your specific activity and visa needs and gives you a fixed, transparent quote before you commit.

Yes. RAKEZ free zone entities allow 100% foreign ownership with no local UAE shareholder or sponsor required, along with full repatriation of capital and profits.

Once your documents and activity are confirmed, licence issuance typically takes a matter of days to a few weeks depending on the licence type and any extra approvals your activity requires. Wise Cat manages submission and follow-up to keep the process moving.

Most of the process can be handled remotely with Wise Cat acting on your behalf. A visit is generally only needed later for steps such as medical testing, biometrics and bank account opening, which UAE authorities require in person.

A free zone licence operates within RAKEZ’s own jurisdiction with 100% foreign ownership. A non-free zone licence is designed for companies that want to sell directly into the UAE local market. RAKEZ is one of the few authorities offering both, including a dual licence that combines them.

A standard RAKEZ free zone licence is intended for business within the free zone and internationally. To trade directly with the UAE mainland, RAKEZ offers a dual-licence option, or you can pair your free zone company with a mainland entity — Wise Cat can advise which structure fits your business.

Visa allocation depends on your facility. A flexi-desk typically supports a small number of visas, while offices and warehouses unlock higher allocations. Wise Cat confirms exact eligibility once your activity and facility are selected.

Yes. RAKEZ offers a dedicated e-commerce licence, competitive setup costs, and flexi-desk facilities suited to online-first businesses, making it a popular choice among founders comparing UAE free zones.

UAE corporate tax applies at a standard rate to taxable income above the applicable threshold. RAKEZ free zone companies may qualify for a 0% rate on qualifying income if they meet Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions set by the Federal Tax Authority. Wise Cat can guide you through what applies to your business.

Individual shareholders generally need a passport copy, passport photo, UAE visa copy if applicable, and a proposed company name and activity. Corporate shareholders need a shareholder resolution, existing trade licence, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and a certificate of good standing. Exact requirements vary by activity.

Wise Cat manages activity selection, documentation, submission and follow-up with RAKEZ on your behalf, and coordinates the visa and bank account steps that follow — so you get one point of contact for the entire journey instead of navigating each stage yourself.