Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ)

was established by an Emiri decree on May 1, 2000. His Highness Sheikh Faisal Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Finance Department, initiated the creation of the emirate’s first free trade zone. Since its inception, RAK FTZ has been one of the fastest-growing free trade zones in the UAE.

Overview

RAK FTZ serves as a gateway to emerging markets, boasting over 8,000 registered companies from more than 100 countries. The cost of living and doing business in Ras Al Khaimah is significantly lower than in other emirates and global business centers such as London, New York, Hong Kong, and Mumbai. This allows for a greater return on investments.

Specialized Zones

RAK FTZ features four specialized zones to cater to diverse investor requirements:

• Business Park: Designed for office clients.
• Industrial Park: Suitable for heavy manufacturing.
• Technology Park: Focused on trading and light manufacturing.
• Academic Zone: Dedicated to educational institutions.

Services and Facilities

In addition to providing various licenses and registering legal entities, RAK FTZ offers tailored offices, warehouses, and land. They also provide value-added services such as advertising, procurement, event management, and recruitment and training assistance. RAK FTZ’s capabilities position it as a leading provider of competitive and customized free-zone business services in the region.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

RAK FTZ benefits from a strategic location less than an hour’s drive from Dubai. It offers state-of-the-art communication facilities and easy access to Ras Al Khaimah’s airport and sea ports. With transparent laws and regulations and zero restrictions on capital and profit repatriation, RAK FTZ is an attractive option for investors.

Global Presence

Headquartered in Ras Al Khaimah, RAK FTZ has business centers in Ras Al Khaimah and promotion centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The free zone is active on three continents, with liaison offices in Turkey, India, and Germany. This international reach provides aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners with ideal solutions to enter the Middle East market and access major emerging markets.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

RAK FTZ is committed to contributing to the community beyond its economic contributions. The free zone aims to generate new jobs, promote economic growth, and preserve the environment.

Business Licenses

RAK FTZ offers several types of business licenses:

• Commercial License
• General Trading License
• Consultancy/Services License
• Industrial License

Facilities

RAK FTZ provides various facilities to meet different business needs:

• Flexi Facilities: Shared and networked workstations (Flexi Desks) or offices (Flexi Offices).
• Standard Office: Furnished offices with an average size of 10 m², available for lease.
• Executive Office: Ideal for companies requiring a permanent presence in the UAE.
• Shell and Core Facilities: Open spaces that can be modified according to the client’s requirements.
• Warehouse: Business packages ranging from Flexi-Desk Business Centers to industrial land.
• Service Block: Shops for restaurants, cafeterias, supermarkets, and salons.
• Industrial Land: Plots designated for industrial, logistic, and service industry purposes.
• Staff and Labour Accommodation: Furnished rooms with air conditioning for staff and labor, with rent inclusive of utilities.

Legal Entities

Companies or individuals can register as one of four legal entities in RAK FTZ:

• Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A new business entity with a sole owner.
• Free Zone Company (FZC): A new business entity with two to five partners.
• Local Branch: A branch of a domestic firm residing in the UAE, which must have existed for more than one year.
• Foreign Branch: A branch of a foreign firm residing outside the UAE, which must have existed for more than one year.

Conclusion

RAK FTZ offers a business-friendly environment with a strategic location, comprehensive services, and a commitment to community and economic growth. Its diverse facilities and legal entities make it an ideal choice for investors looking to establish a presence in the Middle East.

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