RAKEZ a thriving business hub for Indian investors

Leading economic zone offers Indian investors global expansion opportunities

Published by: Gulf News

The UAE and India share a long-standing and dynamic trade relationship. As per the Indian embassy in the UAE, bilateral trade between the two nations reached $83.65 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, making the UAE India’s third-largest trading partner. The UAE is also India's second-largest export destination, with exports exceeding $35.62 billion. Strengthening this trade partnership, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect on May 1, 2022, aims to boost non-oil trade to $100 billion and services trade to over $15 billion within five years. This growing trade relationship has positioned the UAE as a preferred investment hub for Indian enterprises, with the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah emerging as a key gateway for Indian businesses seeking global expansion.

Ras Al Khaimah: A business-friendly destination for Indian entrepreneurs

Offering cost-effective business solutions, world-class infrastructure, and seamless connectivity, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has emerged as a prime location for investment. Its strategic position, coupled with a robust industrial base and business-friendly policies, makes it an attractive choice for Indian entrepreneurs and multinational corporations.

At the heart of RAK’s success is the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), a leading business hub designed to support diverse industries and companies of all sizes. RAKEZ has played a crucial role in simplifying business setup and offering tailored incentives that allow Indian investors to establish and expand their operations with ease.

Hassle-free company formation

RAKEZ offers a streamlined business setup process, making it a favored choice for Indian entrepreneurs. Key benefits include 100 per cent foreign ownership with full capital and profit repatriation, zero personal income tax, and zero corporate tax in designated zones. The economic zone also provides a hassle-free registration process with minimal paperwork and covers over 3,000 business activities under various licenses, including commercial, industrial, and service-based sectors. These benefits, coupled with cost-effective solutions, make RAKEZ a preferred destination for companies looking for affordable expansion.

Affordability and flexibility for all businesses

RAKEZ stands out as one of the most affordable free zones in the UAE, providing low-cost business set-up options and operational expenses. Entrepreneurs benefit from flexible office spaces, warehouses, and industrial land leasing, alongside customisable business packages designed to support startups, SMEs, and large enterprises. Its cost efficiency is further enhanced by its strong trade and logistics connectivity, ensuring businesses can expand with ease.

Seamless trade access to regional and global markets

RAKEZ’s well-established logistical network ensures efficient import-export operations. Businesses enjoy direct access to major seaports and international airports, enabling smooth regional and global expansion. Additionally, its proximity to the MENA region, combined with duty-free access and favourable trade agreements, facilitates seamless international trade. Beyond logistics, RAKEZ offers comprehensive business support to help companies establish and grow in the UAE.

Strong industry networks and support ecosystem

Beyond offering a physical business location, RAKEZ actively supports business growth through networking opportunities, banking and legal services, and consultancy tailored for Indian entrepreneurs. A highly skilled workforce, including a significant Indian expatriate community, ensures businesses have access to experienced professionals. Further strengthening trade ties, RAKEZ has signed MoUs with key Indian business associations such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), the Indian Chamber of Commerce, All India Association of Industries, UAE-India CEPA Council, Indian Economic Trade Organisation, and the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture. These agreements promote foreign investment, enhance trade collaborations, and open doors for Indian businesses in the UAE. As a result, a growing number of Indian companies are choosing RAKEZ as their preferred business base.

Indian enterprises flourishing

RAKEZ hosts over 30,000 companies, with Indian investors playing a dominant role. RAKEZ is already home to 7,000 Indian investors, making India the leading source of investors in the economic zone. In 2024, Indian entrepreneurs topped the list of new company registrations, continuing the trend from 2023, cementing RAKEZ as the preferred business hub for Indian investors looking to expand in the UAE and beyond. Around 3,200 new Indian companies set up their base at RAKEZ in 2024.

Several renowned Indian enterprises, including Royal Gulf Industries (battery recycling), Mahindra (automotive manufacturing), MSSL (automotive components), Dabur Naturelle (FMCG), and Ashok Leyland (bus manufacturing), have successfully expanded their operations in RAKEZ. Their presence highlights the zone’s ability to support diverse industries, from automotive and FMCG to manufacturing and logistics. To further facilitate Indian investors, RAKEZ offers dedicated support through its India-based office in India’s commercial capital, Mumbai.

RAKEZ a global business launchpad

RAKEZ is committed to helping Indian businesses scale their operations in the UAE and beyond. To facilitate market entry, it operates a dedicated branch office in Mumbai, offering tailored consultations and investment guidance. With its investor-friendly policies, cost-effective setup, and strategic location, RAKEZ serves as the ideal launchpad for Indian businesses looking to expand globally.

Are you ready to take your business to new heights? Contact RAKEZ today for a free consultation and explore the vast opportunities that await you in the UAE!