vs UAE FreeZoneCompare
Ras Al Khaimah Est. 2017 ⭐ 4.5/5

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)

RAKEZ is the UAE's premier affordable free zone, combining the operations of RAK Free Trade Zone and RAK Investment Authority. With the Biz Starter package from AED 6,000, it's a go-to choice for cost-sensitive entrepreneurs, light manufacturers, and SMEs who want a proper UAE company without the Dubai price tag.

Compare RAKEZ Estimate My Costs Official Website ↗
AED 6,000
Setup From
14,000+
Companies
Up to 3–6 visas
Visa Allocation
4.5/5
Our Rating

About RAKEZ

RAKEZ is the UAE's premier affordable free zone, combining the operations of RAK Free Trade Zone and RAK Investment Authority. With the Biz Starter package from AED 6,000, it's a go-to choice for cost-sensitive entrepreneurs, light manufacturers, and SMEs who want a proper UAE company without the Dubai price tag.

Best Suited For

Manufacturing Budget Startups SMEs Industrial Businesses Trading

Licensed Activities

Manufacturing Trading Services Industrial Agriculture Media

Cost Breakdown

ItemEstimated Cost
License SetupAED 6,000
Visa (per person)AED 2,500–4,000 per visa
Office / DeskFlexi-desk from AED 2,000/yr
Annual Renewal~Similar to setup cost
Banking Access: Reasonable bank access, some banks may query RAK address

Advantages of RAKEZ

  • Among UAE's most affordable
  • Land and industrial plots available
  • Good for manufacturing
  • RAK city is fast-developing
  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Multiple zones (academic, industrial, business)

Disadvantages to Consider

  • Not in Dubai — less prestige
  • Smaller business community
  • Fewer networking events

Is RAKEZ Right for Your Business?

Key questions to ask before choosing Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone

Trading & Import/Export

Consider whether RAKEZ's location and port access match your supply chain needs. For pure logistics, JAFZA may offer better port connectivity.

Visa Requirements

You can sponsor Up to 3–6 visas under standard packages. Need more? Most free zones allow expansion based on office size. Plan your headcount before choosing a zone.

Banking Considerations

Reasonable bank access, some banks may query RAK address Always check with your preferred bank before committing — requirements vary by business activity and zone.

Ready to Set Up in RAKEZ?

Get a free, no-obligation consultation — we'll confirm costs, timelines and the best package for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to set up in RAKEZ?

The minimum setup fee starts from AED 6,000. This typically covers the trade license and registration fees. You will additionally need to budget for visas (AED 2,500–4,000 per visa per person) and office space (Flexi-desk from AED 2,000/yr).

Can a foreigner own 100% of a RAKEZ company?

Yes. Like all UAE free zones, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a UAE national shareholder. You can fully own and control your company.

How many visas can I get with a RAKEZ license?

Standard packages come with Up to 3–6 visas. Additional visas can typically be obtained by upgrading to a larger office or workspace arrangement.

Can I operate in mainland UAE from RAKEZ?

Free zone companies can trade with mainland UAE businesses, but direct retail to UAE consumers requires a mainland distributor or agent, or a separate mainland license. Many businesses successfully use a free zone + mainland structure.

Compare RAKEZ with other free zones:
DMCC IFZA JAFZA ADGM AMC ANCFZ Dubai South KIZAD Meydan FZ SPC Free Zone SRTIP UAQ FTZ