No, you are not required to be a resident in the UAE to set up a free zone company.
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
Business Setup in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has become one of the UAE’s most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs thanks to its strategic location, cost-effective setup options, and business-friendly environment. Whether you want to establish your company in the mainland, set up in a free zone, or launch an offshore business, Ras Al Khaimah offers flexible solutions for different business types.
At Gulf Central, we take the complexity out of the setup process. Our corporate advisors handle all interactions with government departments, free zone authorities, and economic entities—so you can focus on building your business, not chasing approvals.
Service Process
1 Choose Your Business Activity
Start by identifying the type of economic activity your business will engage in—whether commercial, professional, or industrial. This decision determines your licensing and legal requirements.
2 Select the Legal Structure
Choose the appropriate legal entity based on your business model and activities. Options may include LLCs, branches, or other structures suitable for your operations.
3 Finalize the Jurisdiction
Decide whether to set up in Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore. Each option has distinct advantages depending on your business goals, ownership preferences, and target markets.
4 Obtain Initial Approval
Apply for initial approval from the relevant authorities. This step confirms that your business activity and structure meet the legal requirements to proceed with licensing.
5 Register Your Trade Name and Submit Documents
Choose a unique trade name that complies with UAE naming regulations and register it with the Department of Economic Development (DED). Submit all required documents to move forward with your business licence application.
6 Get Your Business Licence Issued
Once all approvals are secured and legal conditions are met, the DED will issue your business licence. This officially allows your company to operate in Ras Al Khaimah.
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1. Am I required to be a UAE resident to set up a free zone company?
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2. Can I transfer my company from one free zone to another in the UAE?It is not possible to transfer your company from one free zone to another. You can however set up a branch of your existing company in a different free zone. If you want to have your company in a different free zone, you will be required to liquidate your company in the current free zone and then open your company in a different free zone.
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3. How long the process of setting up a free zone company take?In the UAE free zone, you can set up your company fairly quickly with the help of business consultants. The process of setting up your free zone business can take about 3 to 10 days with the help of our consultants. You will be required to get your documents attested by the authorities.