At the Core of RAK Economic Zone’s 2025 Outlook!

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) continues to stand as a beacon of economic dynamism and innovation within the UAE. With 2024 marking a transformative year in its journey, RAKEZ welcomed more than 13,000 new companies into its ecosystem This remarkable surge in business registrations has cemented its position as a leading destination for enterprises of all sizes. By fostering global collaborations, driving sector-specific advancements, and championing sustainable development, RAKEZ has laid a robust foundation for its ambitious plans in 2025.

As RAKEZ expanded its global footprint in 2024, it continued to amplify Ras Al Khaimah’s appeal as an international investment destination by attracting players from strategically important markets such as China and India. One of the significant steps forward was the launch of the Zhong A Shandong Industrial Park – designed to host over 60 Chinese companies in the emirate. Meanwhile, the Indian investors retained their position as the top source of new businesses in RAKEZ, which was further solidified by the collaborations with the Indian Chamber of Commerce, the All India Association of Industries and the UAE-India CEPA Council. Furthermore, collaborations with organisations like China’s Foshan Commerce Bureau, the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai, and the American Business Council in Dubai, also bolstered the economic zone’s engagement with global markets. Complementing this was RAKEZ’s international outreach through roadshows in Canada, India, London, China, and the United States as well as welcoming dozens of diverse international delegations to showcase what the zone offers to investors and stakeholders.

Central to RAKEZ’s continued success last year was its steady commitment to nurturing a thriving business community. The economic zone goes beyond just set-up to truly help businesses thrive and expand. Through numerous expert-led workshops and networking events, RAKEZ empowered its clients across various industries. Its flagship initiative, Growth Series, hosted at the Compass Coworking Centre drew hundreds of SME and startup owners to exchange actionable insights on profitability, scaling, and leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence. As a hub for collaboration and innovation, RAKEZ continues to enable businesses to overcome challenges and seize opportunities within the community. As a client-centric economic zone offering tailored support to enterprises of all sizes, RAKEZ enhanced its business service portfolio with private sector alliances with entities such as digital banking solution provider – Al Maryah Community Bank, trade data analytics provider – The Dollar Business, manpower outsourcing solutions provider – HRM Recruitment, payment solution provider Edenred, UAE’s digital-first Islamic community bank – ruya, global logistics leaders – Emirates Post and FedEx.

While fostering business and partnerships took centre stage, RAKEZ maintained its focus on workplace safety and sustainability. Its initiatives like the HS&E Appreciation Awards celebrated businesses excelling in health, safety, and environmental compliance. RAKEZ’s efforts also earned accolades for customer service, waste reduction, and legal assistance. Notably, it was honoured as the ‘Best Economic Zone’ at the Annual India GCC Achievers Awards 2024, solidifying its standing as a preferred hub for innovation and investment.

As a strategic partner of the UAE’s Make it in the Emirates initiative and Operation 300bn, RAKEZ continues to be at the forefront of advancing the nation’s industrial ecosystem. By providing manufacturers with cutting-edge infrastructure, attractive incentives, and industry expertise, RAKEZ is driving innovation, sustainability, and investment within the UAE’s thriving industrial landscape.

Looking ahead to 2025, RAKEZ remains aligned with the evolving needs of its business community and global economic trends. Plans to expand its infrastructure include new coworking spaces and state-of-the-art warehouse units to support diverse industries. Simultaneously, industrial zone expansions with advanced facilities will cater to high-growth sectors like technology, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Sustainability remains at the core of RAKEZ’s vision. By embedding eco-friendly practices and supporting businesses in adopting green solutions, the economic zone aligns itself with global sustainability goals, including the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy. From energy-efficient industrial facilities to waste reduction programmes, RAKEZ is creating an environmentally responsible ecosystem that benefits businesses and the wider community.

Advancing digital transformation is another key focus for RAKEZ in 2025. By streamlining virtual company set-ups, enhancing its digital infrastructure, and developing coworking spaces for remote working models, RAKEZ is ensuring that businesses can thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Building on the success of its 2024 partnerships, RAKEZ aims to deepen its global engagement this year by participating in business events and forming new alliances across the world. These initiatives will connect businesses to emerging markets, attract foreign investments, and further position Ras Al Khaimah as a key regional and global economic player.

RAKEZ’s unique value proposition lies in its ability to combine cost-effectiveness, world-class facilities, and investor-friendly policies. With 30,000 multinational companies across 50 sectors, RAKEZ provides an ideal environment for businesses to grow. Simplified set-up processes, visa support, and access to a rich pool of local and international talent further enhance its appeal. Additionally, competitive tax advantages—including zero personal tax, 100% profit repatriation, and one of the world’s lowest corporate tax rates—solidify its position as a top choice for investors.

Group CEO Ramy Jallad summarised RAKEZ’s vision: “Our journey is not just about numbers or accolades—it’s about creating an ecosystem that fosters growth, innovation, and opportunity for all. In 2025, we are doubling down on our commitment to empowering businesses and entrepreneurs, driving sustainable economic progress, and ensuring Ras Al Khaimah and the UAE remain centres of progress and global investment.”

With a focus on strategic foresight, operational excellence, and sustainable development, RAKEZ is poised to shape Ras Al Khaimah’s economic landscape in 2025. Building on the successes of 2024, it continues to drive innovation and create opportunities, ensuring another year of remarkable achievements for this thriving economic zone.