About RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a UAE government free zone authority established in 2017 through the merger of the RAK Free Trade Zone (RAK FTZ, founded 2000) and the RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA, founded 2005), overseen by the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority. Based in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah with a representative office in Dubai (and additional offices in Abu Dhabi, India, Turkey, and Germany), RAKEZ is one of the larger economic zones in the region, spanning around 33 million square meters and home to more than 14,000-23,000 companies (reports vary by year) across over 50 industry sectors and 100+ countries.
RAKEZ is distinctive among UAE free zones for offering both free zone and non-free zone company formation within a single authority, giving investors flexibility depending on whether they need to trade directly within the UAE market or operate under free zone status. The zone is organized into six specialized areas: the RAKEZ Business Zone for commercial, service, and consultancy activities; Al Hamra, Al Ghail, and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturing, industrial projects, and logistics; the RAKEZ Academic Zone for educational institutions; and the RAKEZ Media Zone for media firms and professionals. Licence types span Commercial, Industrial, Service, Educational, Media, and E-commerce categories.
RAKEZ positions itself around cost-effectiveness relative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi free zones, with facilities ranging from flexi-desks and serviced offices to warehouses, industrial plots, and showrooms, supporting businesses from individual freelancers through to large-scale industrial operations. The zone allows 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required, and offers both free zone entity and non-free zone (mainland-style) formation options depending on business needs. RAKEZ has built a particular concentration of food and beverage companies, reporting close to 2,000 F&B businesses as of 2026, alongside strong representation in manufacturing and logistics given its proximity to RAK Port, Saqr Port, and RAK Airport.
RAKEZ has continued to invest in digitisation, reporting 20% growth during the COVID-19 period as it moved services online, and has introduced initiatives such as long-term investor visas tied to real estate purchases in the zone through partnerships with local developers. The RAKEZ Business Centre offers shared desks, serviced offices, and customized corporate suites for companies at different stages of growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes RAKEZ different from other UAE free zones?
RAKEZ uniquely offers both free zone and non-free zone (mainland-style) company formation within a single authority, giving investors more flexibility than free zone-only jurisdictions.
When was RAKEZ established?
RAKEZ was established in 2017 through the merger of RAK Free Trade Zone (founded 2000) and RAK Investment Authority (founded 2005).
Does RAKEZ have an office in Dubai?
Yes, RAKEZ maintains a representative office in Dubai for the convenience of investors based in other emirates, in addition to its Ras Al Khaimah headquarters and Abu Dhabi office.
What industries is RAKEZ known for?
RAKEZ has a strong concentration of food and beverage companies (nearly 2,000 as of 2026), alongside significant manufacturing, industrial, and logistics activity.
Does RAKEZ offer warehouse and industrial facilities?
Yes, RAKEZ offers warehouses, industrial plots, and manufacturing facilities across its Al Hamra, Al Ghail, and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones.
Reviews (0)
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Log in to write a review for this business.
Contact Info
Services Offered
Facilities
Similar Businesses Near You
MOA BUSINESS SETUP SERVICES
