We assist global clients looking to do business in UAE Ras Al Khaima Free Zone with the A to Z of business setup without the need for the client to travel to UAE Ras Al Khaima Free Zone . Some of our services include:
Regulatory licenses across all sectors
Provision of nominee directors and shareholders
Recruitment and employee hiring
Virtual/Physical Office space solutions
Employment and residency visas
The most common corporate structures preferred by foreign investors setting up in UAE Ras Al Khaima Free Zone include i) the limited liability company (LLC/LTD) and ii) the branch office. See detailed comparison below:
Advantages and disadvantages of UAE Ras Al Khaima Free Zone business setup:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: In the RAK Free Zone, foreign investors can enjoy 100% ownership of their company, without the need for a local Emirati partner or sponsor, offering complete control over their business.
- No Corporate or Income Tax: Companies in the RAK Free Zone benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate and no personal income tax, providing a highly tax-efficient environment for businesses.
- Strategic Location: Ras Al Khaimah’s proximity to major global markets, including the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe, makes it an ideal hub for international trade and commerce.
- Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital: Investors are allowed to repatriate 100% of their profits and capital, meaning they can send their earnings back to their home country without restrictions.
- Cost-Effective Setup and Operations: Setting up a company in RAK Free Zone is more affordable compared to other emirates in the UAE, with lower registration and office rental costs, making it a cost-effective option for startups and SMEs.
- No Import or Export Duties: Companies in the RAK Free Zone benefit from exemptions on import and export duties, making it more cost-effective to trade goods and services internationally.
- Flexible Visa Options: The Free Zone offers flexible visa packages for business owners, employees, and dependents, making it easier to bring in international talent and relocate key personnel.
- Wide Range of Business Activities: The Free Zone allows for a variety of business activities, including trading, consulting, industrial manufacturing, logistics, and e-commerce, providing flexibility to businesses of all kinds.
- Fast and Efficient Setup Process: The company registration process in RAK Free Zone is straightforward and fast, often taking only a few days, with minimal bureaucracy and a streamlined approach to documentation.
- Access to State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Companies in RAK Free Zone have access to world-class infrastructure, including modern office spaces, warehouses, and logistics hubs, which support seamless business operations.
- Limited Mainland Business Access: Companies in RAK Free Zone are restricted from conducting direct business with the UAE mainland without appointing a local distributor or agent.
- Costs for Mainland Expansion: Expanding business operations into the mainland from the Free Zone may incur additional costs, such as licenses or partnerships with local agents.
- Industry-Specific Restrictions: Certain industries, especially those regulated by the UAE government, may require additional approvals or be restricted from operating in the Free Zone.
- Visa Limitations: Some Free Zone company setups have limits on the number of visas they can issue, which may restrict hiring and expansion options.
- Limited Local Market Presence: Businesses operating solely in the Free Zone may struggle to establish a strong local market presence compared to those based in the mainland.
Important links:
Company incorporation steps in UAE Ras Al Khaima Free Zone:
- Choosing a Business Activity and Structure: Our Team shall assist the Client to choose the type of business activity and legal structure for your company suitable such as Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), or branch office.
- Choosing a Company Name: We shall submit your desired trade name to the RAK Free Zone authority for approval. The name must comply with UAE naming regulations and cannot be identical to existing company names.
- Preparation and Submission of Documents: We shall prepare the required documents, which typically include passport copies of shareholders and directors, a business plan, proof of residence, and any additional documents as specified by the Free Zone authority and thereafter submit these documents to the RAK Free Zone for review
- Obtaining Initial Approval: After reviewing your documents, the RAK Free Zone authority will grant initial approval to your company setup. This approval allows you to proceed with the company formation process.
- Drafting and Signing the Memorandum of Association (MOA): Our Team shall draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and other statutory documents, including the Articles of Association, reflecting the company’s structure and operations. These documents must be signed by all shareholders and directors.
- Trade License: Once payment for the registration is confirmed and all documentation is in order, the RAK Free Zone authority will issue the trade license, officially allowing you to operate your business.
- Registration with Federal Tax Authority (FTA): If the business activities are subject to VAT, our team shall register the Company with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) to obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN). This registration is mandatory for VAT compliance.
- Opening Corporate Bank Account: Our team shall set up a corporate bank account with top tier banks in UAE. This will facilitate the management of your company’s financial transactions and capital.
- Visas and Additional Permits: We shall apply for visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents as needed. Additionally, we shall also obtain any industry-specific permits or approvals required for your business operations.
- Compliance with National Schemes: Our Team shall ensure your Company is compliant with national schemes such as the UAE’s Social Security system if applicable.

Clarence S. Carlos
Regional Cordinator
Clarence is our regional cordinator and head of business setup secretariat.

Clarence S. Carlos
Regional Cordinator
A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary
- Phone:+254-789612045
- Email:carlos@girimbaconsulting.co.ke