Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone: A Promising Business Landscape

The Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Free Zone has emerged as a beacon for international investors, offering a plethora of advantages that make it an attractive destination for business setup. The strategic location of RAK, being the only emirate in the UAE situated close to the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with its proximity to the entrance of the Arabian Gulf, provides a competitive edge to businesses engaged in export, import, or maritime activities.

Benefits of Company Formation in RAK Free Zones

Investors are drawn to RAK free zones due to the numerous benefits they offer, such as excellent connectivity, unique licenses and activities, and robust infrastructure. The process of business registration in these zones is flexible and straightforward, making it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs. However, it is advisable to consult with business setup consultants in the UAE to navigate potential roadblocks efficiently.

Types of Licenses in RAK Free Zones

To establish a business in RAK Free Zones, obtaining a trade license is mandatory. The licenses, issued by respective free zone authorities, are linked to the business activities permitted within the free zone premises. Depending on the nature of the business, investors can choose from the following licenses:

Industrial License

Both RAK Maritime City and RAKEZ Authority offer industrial licenses, facilitating activities such as manufacturing, processing, assembling, and packaging. Obtaining an industrial license may require additional documentation and approvals, making it advisable to seek the assistance of business setup consultants in RAK.

Commercial License

A commercial license permits activities such as import, export, sale, distribution, and storage of specified goods. RAK free zones provide a robust infrastructure to conduct commercial license activities, making it easier for investors to obtain a commercial license with the help of business setup services in RAK.

General Trading License

A general trading license permits the import, export, warehousing, and distribution of an unlimited number of products. Unlike a normal trading license, the products need not be similar. Company formation consultants in RAK can assist entrepreneurs in obtaining a general trading license with ease.

Legal Structures in RAK Free Zones

Investors are required to identify a company structure to initiate the incorporation process. The legal structure can be determined based on the number of shareholders and the nature of the business. The following types of companies can be registered in RAK Free Zones:

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

An FZE can be incorporated in RAK free zones with a single shareholder, who can be either an individual or a company. Business setup experts in RAK can assist investors in establishing an FZE without any hassle.

Free Zone Company (FZC)

At least two shareholders are required to set up an FZC in RAK free zones. The number of shareholders can't exceed five, and both natural persons, companies, or a mix of the two can serve as shareholders in an FZC.

Branch Offices

Already incorporated companies can open their branch offices within RAK free zones. Both UAE based companies and foreign companies can establish their branches in RAK free zones. The legal identity of a branch is dependent upon the parent company, meaning the activities of the parent and the branch should match.

Key Features of RAK Free Zones

RAK free zones are rapidly growing trade hubs offering unparalleled benefits for foreign investors. Some of the common benefits include:

  • Strategic Location in Ras Al Khaimah
  • Excellent Connectivity & Proximity to Ports
  • 100% foreign ownership of the company
  • Zero corporate tax
  • Zero customs duty and tariff
  • World-class infrastructure and communication facilities
  • Easy access to global markets
  • 100% repatriation of profits and capital
  • No restriction to hire foreign workers

Document Requirements for Company Formation in RAK Maritime City

To establish a company in RAK free zones, foreign investors are required to present the following documents:

  • Application form for trade license
  • A brief description of the business project
  • Passport copies of the owner(s) or Manager
  • Bank statement to prove minimum balance account to meet the capital requirement
  • Company resolution for FZC
  • Power of Attorney (POA) to appoint a representative/manager for FZC

Leading Free Zones in Ras Al Khaimah

There are two major world-renowned free zones in RAK that offer robust facilities and cost-effective licenses for foreign investors. These are:

Need Assistance?

PW offers comprehensive services covering essential requirements such as visa processing, document drafting, government liaising, bank account opening, and more. Our team of business setup consultants, PRO service executives, and compliance advisers ensures a hassle-free company incorporation process in RAK Free Zones

Umair Ahmad

Company Formation Specialist
  • +971 56 403 8600
  • info@privatewolf.ae
  • 06, 11B Happiness Street, CityWalk, Dubai
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