Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone Companies List
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is a thriving business hub, offering a competitive free zone environment for global investors. The Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone Companies List includes businesses from industries such as manufacturing, logistics, technology, healthcare, and more. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of RAK free zone companies, their benefits, and how to set up a business in the region.
Major Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone Companies
The table below highlights some of the top companies operating in RAK free zones:
| Company Name | Industry | Free Zone | Services Provided |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAK Ceramics | Manufacturing | RAK Economic Zone (RAKEZ) | Ceramic tiles, sanitaryware |
| Julphar Pharmaceuticals | Healthcare | RAK Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ) | Medical products, pharmaceuticals |
| Falcon Technologies | Technology | RAKEZ | Optical storage solutions |
| RAK Gas | Energy | RAK FTZ | Oil and gas exploration |
| Maersk Shipping | Logistics | RAK Maritime City | Freight and cargo services |
| RAK Rock | Construction | RAKEZ | Limestone and mining solutions |
| Guardian Industries | Glass Manufacturing | RAK FTZ | Glass production, coatings |
| American University of RAK | Education | RAKEZ | Higher education institution |
Why Choose Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone?
RAK Free Zones offer numerous advantages for business owners and investors:
- 100% Foreign Ownership – Full business ownership without a local sponsor.
- Tax-Free Operations – No corporate or personal income tax.
- Easy Company Formation – Quick registration and licensing process.
- Strategic Location – Proximity to ports, airports, and major trade routes.
- Industry-Specific Free Zones – Dedicated zones for manufacturing, trading, logistics, and IT.
Types of Companies in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
Trading & Manufacturing Companies
RAK attracts manufacturers and traders due to its cost-effective operations and global trade access.
- RAK Ceramics – The world’s largest ceramics producer.
- Guardian Glass – Leading glass manufacturer.
- RAK Rock – Supplier of construction materials.
Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Companies
RAK’s healthcare industry is expanding rapidly with top medical firms such as:
- Julphar Pharmaceuticals – One of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the Middle East.
- RAK Hospital – A premium healthcare provider.
Logistics & Shipping Companies
RAK’s coastal position makes it ideal for logistics and shipping firms:
- Maersk Shipping – A global leader in logistics and supply chain solutions.
- Gulftainer – Manages port operations and cargo handling.
Energy & Industrial Companies
RAK Free Zone attracts energy and industrial firms focusing on oil, gas, and industrial materials:
- RAK Gas – Gas exploration and production.
- RAK Petroleum – Oil production and refining.
Education & Research Institutions
RAK Free Zone promotes education and research through prestigious institutions:
- American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK)
- RAK Medical & Health Sciences University
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Company in RAK Free Zone
Setting up a company in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone is a straightforward process designed to attract global investors. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you establish your business successfully.
Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is to define the nature of your business. RAK Free Zone offers licenses for various sectors, including:
| Business Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Trading | Import, export, and distribution of goods. |
| Industrial/Manufacturing | Production and assembly of goods or raw materials. |
| Services/Consultancy | Professional services like legal, IT, marketing, and finance. |
| Media & Digital | Advertising, media production, and digital marketing. |
| Education | Schools, training centers, and universities. |
| E-Commerce | Online business activities. |
| Freelance Permit | Independent professionals in various fields. |
Select the Right Business Structure
RAK Free Zone offers different company types based on ownership and shareholder requirements.
| Company Type | Number of Shareholders | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Zone Establishment (FZE) | 1 | Sole proprietors or single investors. |
| Free Zone Company (FZC) | 2 or more | Partnerships and multiple investors. |
| Branch of an Existing Company | N/A | Expanding an existing local or foreign business. |
Choose the Right Free Zone Location
RAK has multiple specialized free zones, each designed for different industries.
| RAK Free Zone | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| RAKEZ Business Park | Offices, consultancy, and IT firms. |
| RAKEZ Industrial Zone | Manufacturing and heavy industries. |
| RAK Maritime City | Shipping, logistics, and trade. |
| Al Hulaila Industrial Zone | Large-scale industrial businesses. |
Register Your Trade Name
Your company must have a unique trade name that follows UAE guidelines.
✅ Must Be:
- Unique and not already registered.
- Free of offensive or religious terms.
- Compliant with UAE business laws.
Submit Required Documents
To officially register your company, you must submit the following:
📌 For Individual Investors:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Visa copy (if resident in UAE)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in UAE
📌 For Corporate Entities:
- Parent company’s trade license copy
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Board resolution approving the new company
Obtain the Business License
Depending on your business activity, you will need one of the following licenses:
| License Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial License | For trading and general business activities. |
| Industrial License | For manufacturing and production businesses. |
| Service License | For professional services such as IT, consulting, etc. |
| E-Commerce License | For online businesses and digital services. |
Timeframe: The process usually takes 2 to 5 working days, depending on approvals.
Secure Office Space or Warehouse
Depending on your business, you will need:
🏢 Office Space: Required for consultancy, IT, and professional services.
🏭 Warehouse Facility: Needed for manufacturing, storage, or industrial operations.
RAK Free Zone provides flexible office options, including:
- Flexi-desk: Shared workspace for startups.
- Executive Office: Private office spaces.
- Warehouses & Industrial Land: For manufacturing and logistics companies.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Once your business is registered, you need a UAE corporate bank account. Popular banks in RAK include:
🏦 Top Banks for Business Accounts:
- Emirates NBD
- RAKBANK
- ADCB
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
Documents required:
✔ Trade license
✔ Shareholder details
✔ Business plan
✔ Proof of address
Apply for Investor & Employee Visas
After setting up your company, you can apply for visas for yourself and employees.
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Investor Visa | Business owners and company shareholders. | 3 years |
| Employment Visa | Employees hired under your company. | 2 years |
| Dependent Visa | Family members of business owners or employees. | 2 years |
Processing time: 5-10 working days.
Start Business Operations in RAK Free Zone
Once all legal formalities are complete, you can officially begin operations. RAK Free Zone provides business support services, including:
✅ PRO services for document clearances.
✅ Customs clearance and logistics support.
✅ Digital marketing and networking opportunities.
Why Choose Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone?
✔ 100% Foreign Ownership – No need for a local sponsor.
✔ Zero Corporate & Income Tax – Full profit retention.
✔ Easy Business Setup – Minimal paperwork and quick registration.
✔ Affordable Licensing Fees – Lower costs compared to Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
✔ Strategic Trade Location – Access to Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
Conclusion
The Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone Companies List includes some of the UAE’s leading businesses in manufacturing, logistics, energy, and healthcare. With tax-free policies, 100% foreign ownership, and a strategic location, RAK Free Zone is one of the best choices for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a company in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the benefits of setting up a company in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone?
RAK Free Zone offers 100% foreign ownership, tax-free operations, low setup costs, and strategic access to global markets.
2. How long does it take to register a company in RAK Free Zone?
Company registration in RAK Free Zone can take as little as 2 to 5 working days, depending on the business type and required approvals.
3. What industries operate in Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone?
RAK Free Zone hosts companies in manufacturing, logistics, trading, healthcare, technology, and education.
4. Can a RAK Free Zone company do business outside the UAE?
Yes, RAK Free Zone companies can trade internationally without restrictions and operate in global markets.
5. What documents are required to set up a business in RAK Free Zone?
The key documents include a passport copy, business plan, trade name approval, and completed application forms.
