Which free zone licence is the right one?

  • 24 Mar 2025
  • read
  • Business

Setting up a business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) presents entrepreneurs with a range of opportunities, especially within free zones that offer tax benefits, streamlined operations and complete foreign ownership. However, choosing the right free zone licence is crucial, as it determines the scope of activities your business can undertake.

In Ras Al Khaimah, a leading destination for investment and trade, RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) offers tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes. With the right free zone licence, investors can efficiently operate across various sectors while ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. RAKEZ provides different types of free zone licences, allowing businesses to choose the right free zone licence for their specific needs, all within a business-friendly environment.

Understanding Free Zone Licences

A free zone licence is a legal permit that allows businesses to conduct specific commercial, service-based or industrial activities within a UAE free zone. At RAKEZ, several licence options cater to various business needs, ensuring flexibility and growth.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the free zone licences offered by RAKEZ:

 

1. Commercial Licence

Ideal for businesses involved in the trading of goods and services. Whether importing, exporting, distributing or storing products, this licence allows businesses to operate efficiently within the UAE free zones and international markets.

Best for:

• Traders and wholesalers
• Import-export businesses
• Companies selling physical products

2. Educational Licence

Designed for entities within the education sector, this licence allows for the establishment of training centres, consultancies and educational institutions. 

Best for:

• Training providers
• Education consultancies
• Institutions offering specialised courses

3. E-Commerce Licence

As online businesses continue to thrive, this licence caters to those selling goods and services via digital platforms. 

Best for:

• Online retailers
• Digital service providers
• Subscription-based businesses

4. General Trading Licence

For businesses dealing in multiple product categories, the General Trading Licence offers greater flexibility. 

Best for:

• Multi-product trading businesses
• Companies looking for diverse import-export opportunities

5. Individual / Professional Licence

This licence is issued for individuals offering services based on a specific skill or expertise. 

Best for:

• Independent professionals
• Business consultants
• Creative and IT specialists

6. Media Licence

The Media Licence is tailored for media-related businesses, including advertising agencies, production houses, content creators and publishing companies.

Best for:

• Media and marketing firms
• TV and film production companies
• Digital content creators

7. Service Licence

Aimed at businesses providing consultancy and professional services, this licence allows companies to operate within a range of service-based industries. 

Best for:

• Business consultants
• IT service providers
• Legal and financial advisory firms

8. Freelancer Permit

For individuals working independently in media, education, IT and analytical roles, RAKEZ offers a Freelancer Permit. This allows professionals to operate legally without requiring a full company set-up.

Best for:

• Independent journalists
• IT developers and designers
• Market analysts and consultants

9. Industrial Licence

Businesses engaged in manufacturing, processing and industrial activities require an Industrial Licence. 

Best for:

• Manufacturers and assembly plants
• Food production units
• Industrial product suppliers

Additional business set-up options

RAKEZ also provides special business set-up options for companies looking for greater flexibility and faster processing.

Dual Licence

RAKEZ offers a Dual Licence, allowing businesses to operate both in free zones and non-free zones under one entity. This is particularly beneficial for companies that want to expand into the UAE mainland without establishing a separate legal entity. 

Benefits of a Dual Licence:

• Operate in both free zones and mainland UAE
• Combine commercial and professional activities
• Simplified business expansion without the need for multiple entities

Instant Licence

For businesses looking to start operations immediately, RAKEZ offers an Instant Licence, ensuring fast-track approvals. This option is perfect for entrepreneurs seeking the right free zone licence to establish their presence swiftly. As part of the UAE free zone licence offerings, it allows a seamless set-up without requiring a physical office.

Best for:

• Entrepreneurs needing a quick business set-up
• Businesses that do not require a physical office immediately

Why choose RAKEZ for your business?

RAKEZ provides a comprehensive business ecosystem, offering:

• 100% foreign ownership
• Fast and cost-effective business set-up
• Access to global markets
• Strategic location with world-class infrastructure
• Supportive regulatory framework

Contact RAKEZ today to embark on your entrepreneurial journey in the UAE:
Phone: +971 7 204 1111
Email: info@rakez.com


Categories

Copyright 2025 by RAKEZ - Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone Government of Ras Al Khaimah | Privacy Statement| Terms Of Use
Last Updated on 12/29/2019 9:23:05 PM

  • Virtual Tour
  • Happiness Survey
  • Callback
  • Portal 360
  • Chat with Us
  • Get in touch