Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is one of the UAE's largest and most affordable economic zones, serving over 50 sectors with free-zone, non-free-zone and industrial options. It suits startups, SMEs, industrialists and service firms wanting low-cost, flexible setup. AOPA member firms support RAKEZ companies with accounting, audit and UAE Corporate Tax.
Overview
RAKEZ was formed in 2017 by merging RAK Free Trade Zone and the RAK Investment Authority into a single powerhouse economic zone. Home to tens of thousands of companies, it spans more than 50 sectors and offers dedicated business, industrial, media and academic zones, combining competitive pricing with a broad service offering and both free-zone and mainland (non-free-zone) options.
Who it suits
RAKEZ caters to a very wide market, from freelancers, startups and SMEs to large manufacturers and industrial investors. Traders, consultants, e-commerce sellers, media firms, educational institutions and factories all find tailored facilities, making it one of the most versatile zones in the northern emirates.
Licences and activities
The zone issues commercial, general-trading, service/professional, industrial, media, educational and e-commerce licences, plus freelancer permits. Investors can choose free-zone status for 100% ownership and customs benefits or a non-free-zone setup to trade in the UAE market, with facilities from flexi-desks to warehouses and large land plots.
Setting up
Steps: (1) choose your activity, licence type and free-zone or non-free-zone route; (2) reserve the trade name; (3) select a facility and visa package; (4) submit KYC and incorporation documents; (5) receive the licence and lease; (6) complete customs registration, visas and Emirates ID.
Accounting and audit requirements
RAKEZ companies must keep proper accounting records, and audited financial statements are commonly required at renewal and for banking. All entities must register for UAE Corporate Tax with the Federal Tax Authority and assess the 0% qualifying free-zone rate, with VAT and Economic Substance reviewed where relevant. AOPA member firms handle RAKEZ accounting, audit and Corporate Tax filings.
Frequently asked questions
What is RAKEZ?
RAKEZ is the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, formed in 2017 from the merger of RAK Free Trade Zone and RAKIA. It serves over 50 sectors with low-cost, flexible free-zone and non-free-zone setups.
Is RAKEZ good for industrial businesses?
Yes. RAKEZ has a dedicated industrial zone with warehouses and land plots at competitive rates, alongside business, media and academic zones.
Can a RAKEZ company trade in the UAE mainland?
RAKEZ offers both free-zone and non-free-zone options. A non-free-zone setup allows direct trading in the UAE market, while free-zone status offers 100% ownership and customs benefits.
Do RAKEZ companies pay Corporate Tax?
They are within the UAE Corporate Tax regime and may qualify for 0% on qualifying income where free-zone conditions are met, but must register with the Federal Tax Authority. AOPA member firms can advise.