Company Formation in RAKEZ Freezone
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) stands as one of the most powerful business hubs in the UAE. It supports entrepreneurs who want to launch ventures with ease, speed, and full control. The free zone attracts both small startups and multinational investors due to its affordability, modern infrastructure, and investor-friendly laws.
Company formation in RAKEZ Freezone is quick and straightforward. It allows 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and low setup costs. Businesses in this zone operate within a global network that reaches the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. The setup process involves minimal paperwork, making RAKEZ a preferred destination for investors looking for simplicity and cost-efficiency.
Understanding RAKEZ Freezone and Its Significance
RAKEZ was created by the government of Ras Al Khaimah to encourage economic diversification and foreign investment. It brings together various sectors like manufacturing, trading, logistics, media, and services under one platform.
RAKEZ provides business owners with flexible workspace options, including:
- Smart offices for startups
- Warehouses and industrial units
- Land plots for development
The authority ensures compliance while simplifying administrative procedures. It offers a fully digital business environment where entrepreneurs can complete registration, licensing, and renewal online without unnecessary delays.
Why Choose RAKEZ for Your Business Setup?
Setting up a business in RAKEZ Freezone provides unmatched convenience and global reach. Below are the key advantages:
1. Access to Regional and Global Markets
RAKEZ’s strategic location in the UAE provides immediate access to markets in Asia, Africa, and Europe. The free zone’s proximity to Ras Al Khaimah Port and major UAE airports ensures quick logistics and shipping routes.
2. Affordable Setup Costs
RAKEZ offers cost-effective packages that suit startups and large enterprises alike. Investors can select from shared desks, executive offices, or industrial warehouses according to their needs.
3. Tax Benefits and Ownership Flexibility
RAKEZ allows 100% foreign ownership and 100% profit repatriation. Under the UAE Corporate Tax regime, free zone entities can qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate if they meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) requirements as defined by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
4. Transparent Regulations
The free zone operates under transparent laws that align with international business standards. Investors face no hidden costs or legal complications.
5. Easy Expansion Options
RAKEZ allows investors to open branch offices or scale operations easily within the UAE or abroad.
These features make RAKEZ an ideal gateway for global business expansion.
Types of RAKEZ Licenses Available
RAKEZ provides multiple license categories depending on the nature of your business. These include:
- General Trading License: For import, export, and distribution of multiple goods.
- Commercial License: For retail, hospitality, and service-oriented businesses.
- Industrial License: For manufacturing, assembly, and warehousing operations.
- Educational License: For training institutes and learning centers.
- Freelancer Permit: For independent professionals in creative and consultancy sectors.
Every license type aligns with a specific activity list and allows you to operate legally under UAE regulations.
Legal Structures Allowed in RAKEZ
Business owners can choose one of the following structures:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A single-shareholder entity with limited liability.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Multi-shareholder company with 2 to 50 partners.
- Branch Office: For companies registered outside the UAE or within another emirate.
Each structure provides distinct legal and operational flexibility. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing helps investors select the ideal structure based on their ownership goals and compliance requirements.
Documents Required for RAKEZ Company Formation
- Application form for business setup
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
- Business plan or activity outline
- Memorandum & Articles of Association
- Bank reference letter (if required)
- Visa and Emirates ID copies (for UAE residents)
- Corporate Tax registration details (if applicable)
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing assists in document preparation, verification, and submission to ensure your file meets all RAKEZ and FTA standards.
Step-by-Step Process for Company Formation in RAKEZ
Setting up your company in RAKEZ follows a simple stepwise process:
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Identify the nature of your business. Activities can include trading, consultancy, logistics, or manufacturing. Each activity determines the type of license needed.
2. Select a Legal Structure
Choose between FZE, FZC, or Branch Office depending on the number of shareholders and your expansion plans.
3. Reserve a Trade Name
Propose three name options to RAKEZ for approval. The chosen name must comply with UAE naming guidelines—no offensive or religious terms are allowed.
4. Submit Required Documents
Provide all required documentation through your registered agent. This includes identification, MoA, and activity details.
5. Obtain Initial Approval
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive initial authorization to proceed with the setup.
6. Lease Office Space or Warehouse
Select your preferred facility type. RAKEZ offers flexible options from virtual offices to large-scale warehouses.
7. Receive the Trade License
After payment of fees and verification, RAKEZ issues your trade license, enabling you to operate legally within the free zone.
8. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing assists in opening your UAE corporate account by coordinating with compliant banks and preparing your KYC documentation.
9. Apply for Visas
You can apply for investor or employee visas through RAKEZ’s online portal.
10. Start Operations
Once the license, bank account, and visas are ready, you can start your business activities immediately.
Advantages of Doing Business in RAKEZ
- 100% ownership and control
- No import/export duties within the free zone
- 0% corporate tax (subject to QFZP rules)
- Low-cost setup and renewal packages
- Modern infrastructure with scalable facilities
- Access to global logistics and supply chains
- Flexible visa packages for investors and employees
- Secure, transparent, and compliant business environment
Corporate Tax and Compliance in RAKEZ
Since 2023, the UAE has implemented Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 on Corporate Tax. Free zone entities like those in RAKEZ may qualify for a 0% tax rate on eligible income, provided they meet FTA criteria for Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs).
Businesses must:
- Maintain proper accounting records.
- File annual tax returns.
- Ensure Economic Substance Regulation (ESR) compliance.
- Submit Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declarations.
Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing manages these compliance filings to ensure your company stays aligned with UAE regulations.
Banking and Financial Benefits
A RAKEZ company can open corporate bank accounts in major UAE banks such as Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, or FAB. Banks will typically require:
- Trade license copy
- MoA/AoA
- Passport and proof of address for shareholders
- Business plan and invoices (if available)
Bank accounts allow businesses to manage multi-currency transactions efficiently. They can also access trade finance, letters of credit, and international transfers.
Timelines and Setup Costs
- Company registration: 3–5 working days
- License issuance: 1–2 days after payment
- Visa processing: 5–10 working days
Setup costs vary depending on the license type and office space. RAKEZ packages start from around AED 12,000 annually for a basic business setup.
Why Choose Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing for RAKEZ Setup
Establishing a company in RAKEZ becomes easier when guided by experts. Mubarak Al Ketbi (MAK) Auditing provides complete formation services—from licensing to compliance management.
Our team helps with:
- Business structure consultation
- License application and renewal
- Corporate bank account coordination
- ESR, UBO, and tax registration
- Visa and PRO services
- Annual compliance and bookkeeping
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
