Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone – A Global Business Gateway
Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ), now part of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), is one of the UAE’s most trusted destinations for international businesses. Established in 2000, it quickly evolved into a hub that connects investors, entrepreneurs, and multinational corporations across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The free zone provides a dynamic ecosystem that supports innovation, commerce, and industrial growth. With 100 % foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup procedures, RAK FTZ is ideal for anyone seeking to expand their operations in the Middle East.
Located near major shipping routes and just an hour away from Dubai, RAK FTZ serves as a bridge between the East and the West—offering the best mix of cost efficiency, flexibility, and regulatory ease.
Purpose of Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone
The vision behind establishing the RAK Free Trade Zone was to diversify the UAE’s economy and create a competitive environment for international investors. Over two decades later, it remains a vital player in the UAE’s non-oil economic growth.
The free zone allows entrepreneurs to set up offices, warehouses, or industrial units with minimal bureaucracy. Its business model encourages transparency, digitalization, and investor protection.
Core Objectives Include:
- Promoting sustainable investment
- Enhancing global trade opportunities
- Encouraging innovation through supportive infrastructure
- Providing cost-effective solutions for small and medium enterprises
Every company operating within RAK FTZ enjoys the benefits of advanced facilities, regulatory flexibility, and access to global logistics networks.
Key Benefits of RAK Free Trade Zone
Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone provides a package of business-friendly policies designed to empower global investors. Its incentives make it one of the most attractive destinations for startups and established corporations alike.
Main Advantages Include:
- 0% Corporate and Personal Tax: Businesses registered under RAK FTZ enjoy long-term tax exemptions, enhancing profitability.
- 100 % Foreign Ownership: Investors can own their companies outright without needing a local sponsor.
- No Minimum Capital Requirement: Offshore and onshore entities can be formed with flexibility in capital structure.
- Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital: Entrepreneurs can transfer their profits freely without restrictions.
- Simplified Business Setup: Quick registration process with minimal paperwork.
- Remote Registration: Investors can register their business remotely without physical presence.
- Confidentiality and Compliance: UAE’s legal framework ensures financial privacy while complying with OECD and FATF standards.
RAK FTZ combines accessibility and convenience, allowing investors to operate smoothly in a secure and regulated environment.
Licensing Options in Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone
RAK FTZ offers multiple license categories catering to different business activities. Each license type comes with specific benefits and operational privileges.
1️⃣ Industrial License
This license allows businesses to import raw materials, process, manufacture, assemble, and export finished goods. Companies must provide environmental and feasibility reports before approval.
2️⃣ Commercial License
Issued to firms engaged in trading, import/export, warehousing, or distribution of goods. It permits up to seven product lines per license and can be processed within a few working days.
3️⃣ General Trading License
A general trading license authorizes the holder to trade in multiple product categories beyond seven lines. It’s ideal for import/export firms managing diverse inventory.
4️⃣ Consultancy and Service License
This license covers activities such as business consulting, marketing, finance, management, and accounting services. Firms like Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing operate under this category, ensuring regulatory compliance and expert financial guidance.
5️⃣ Educational and Professional Licenses
Suitable for training institutions, academies, and specialized consultants who wish to operate within the UAE.
These flexible licenses allow entrepreneurs to choose business models that fit their goals and budgets.
Business Setup Process in RAK FTZ
Starting a business in Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone is efficient and transparent. The process involves only a few easy steps:
1️⃣ Choose a License Type: Select the appropriate license according to your planned activity.
2️⃣ Submit Application: Provide personal and corporate documents for review.
3️⃣ Company Name Reservation: Choose and register a unique business name approved by the authority.
4️⃣ Lease Office Space: Select an office, warehouse, or virtual setup within RAK FTZ.
5️⃣ Pay Fees and Collect License: Once verified, receive your business license and start operations.
With the help of experienced auditors like Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing, investors can complete the setup process quickly while ensuring full legal compliance.
Importance of Approved Auditors in RAK FTZ
Auditing ensures financial accuracy and compliance with UAE regulations. In the Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone, businesses must appoint approved auditors recognized by the free zone authority.
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing is a trusted firm offering professional audit and assurance services to companies operating in RAK FTZ. Their expertise ensures that every business maintains transparent financial records aligned with international standards such as IFRS.
Key Audit Services Include:
- Statutory and Internal Audits
- Risk Assessment & Financial Review
- VAT & Tax Compliance Audits
- Forensic Accounting & Fraud Detection
- Business Restructuring & Advisory
- Corporate Governance Consulting
Through professional audits, companies can identify inefficiencies, improve performance, and enhance stakeholder trust.
Why Choose Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing
Choosing the right auditor determines how smoothly your business runs in the long term. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing stands out for its commitment to quality, transparency, and integrity.
Reasons to Choose MAK Auditing:
- Approved by RAK FTZ & RAKEZ authorities
- A team of certified accountants with vast UAE experience
- On-time audit delivery with precise reporting
- Customized solutions for each business size
- Adherence to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
- Strong confidentiality and data protection protocols
They combine technical expertise with local insight, providing clients with reliable and cost-effective auditing solutions.
Auditing Adds Strategic Value
Auditing is more than compliance—it’s a strategic tool for business improvement. Companies that perform regular audits maintain better control over their financial operations and make informed decisions.
Benefits of Regular Auditing Include:
- Strengthened financial transparency
- Improved internal controls and resource allocation
- Fraud prevention and early error detection
- Enhanced reputation among investors and clients
- Better access to bank loans and external funding
Partnering with Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing ensures your business meets legal requirements while staying financially sound and ready for growth.
Challenges of Not Appointing Approved Auditors
Neglecting approved auditing can lead to severe operational and reputational consequences.
Potential Risks Include:
- Inaccurate financial records
- Non-compliance penalties
- Delayed license renewals
- Reduced investor confidence
- Poor decision-making due to incorrect financial data
Having Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing as your financial advisor eliminates these risks and secures your business continuity.
The Future of Business Auditing in RAK Free Zone
The future of auditing is digital. With AI-based software, cloud systems, and real-time analytics, auditors can provide faster, more detailed insights. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing leads this transformation by integrating modern tools into every audit process, ensuring precision and efficiency.
As RAK FTZ continues to attract global investors, digital auditing will play a vital role in maintaining financial integrity and sustainable growth.
🥇 What Can Help – Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing helps businesses in Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone maintain financial clarity, compliance, and confidence. Our experienced professionals ensure that your records meet every legal and regulatory standard set by RAK FTZ and UAE authorities.
We focus on accuracy, trust, and long-term partnerships that support business growth.
As the saying goes, “A stitch in time saves nine,” timely audits protect your business from future financial issues and build a foundation for success.
For more information:
- Visit our office: Saraya Avenue Building – Office M-06, Block/A, Al Garhoud – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Contact / WhatsApp: +971 50 276 2132
- Geo Coordinates: 25.2807189480206, 55.41846458517048
