Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones Overview 2026 — Complete Guide
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has multiple free zones making it one of UAE most popular budget-friendly emirate for business setup. Here is the complete 2026 overview.
In this guide:
RAK Free Zones — Full List
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone): Largest RAK free zone; business, industrial, academic zones
- RAK ICC (International Corporate Centre): Offshore company registration; popular for international holding
- RAKIA (Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority): Now merged into RAKEZ
RAK ICC — Offshore Company Registration
- Type: International Business Company (IBC); offshore; not UAE-based operations
- Use cases: International holding; non-UAE operations; privacy
- Not for UAE operations: RAK ICC companies cannot operate in UAE; offshore only
- Cost: AED 6,000-10,000/year; much cheaper than full free zone company
- Note: RAK ICC does not provide UAE residency visa; for visa purposes choose RAKEZ instead
RAKEZ — Business Zone
- Best for: Services, consulting, trading companies wanting a cost-effective UAE free zone with visa
- Cost: AED 12,000-16,000/year all-inclusive
- Visa: Investor and employee visas available
- Activities: Very broad activity list
Advantages of RAK for Business
- Lower cost of living: RAK is significantly cheaper than Dubai for housing and day-to-day costs
- Tourism growing: RAK tourism growing; Wynn casino resort under construction (expected 2027)
- Manufacturing: RAK has significant ceramics, mineral, and industrial manufacturing base