RAKEZ Free Zone: The Ideal Jurisdiction for Your Single Family Office in the UAE
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) presents a compelling opportunity for establishing a Single Family Office with significant tax advantages and government backing. This comprehensive analysis explores why RAKEZ stands out as an optimal jurisdiction for wealth management operations.
RAKEZ is a world-class government authority established by the Ras Al Khaimah government in 2017, representing the evolution of two successful free zones: RAK Free Trade Zone (founded in 2000) and RAK Investment Authority (established in 2005).
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by Tariq Selah
Introduction to RAKEZ
Government Leadership
Chaired by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the Ruling Family of Ras Al Khaimah
Impressive Scale
Houses over 30,000 multinational companies from more than 100 countries representing over 50 sectors
Strategic Location
Spans across 33 million square meters of prime territory
Regulatory Framework
One of 37 free zones across the UAE overseen by the Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority
Government Backing: A Foundation of Trust
Enhanced Credibility
Strengthened reputation for your Single Family Office
Strategic Development
Planning aligned with UAE national objectives
Regulatory Efficiency
Streamlined processes and policy consistency
Political & Economic Stability
Direct government ownership and management
The direct ownership and management by the Ras Al Khaimah government provides significant reassurance to investors and business owners considering RAKEZ as their operational base. The emirate has earned a reliable reputation confirmed by well-known rating agencies including Fitch Ratings and S&P, further cementing confidence in the jurisdiction.
Tax Advantages in a Designated Free Zone
0% Corporate Tax Rate
Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) enjoy a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, compared to the standard 9% mainland rate.
QFZP Status Requirements
- Official registration and licensing by RAKEZ
- Primary income from classified qualifying activities
- Substantial presence within the Free Zone
Tax Benefits (Subject to confirmation on case to case basis by a licenced tax consultant)
- Up to 100% profit repatriation
- No personal income taxes in the UAE
- Full foreign ownership (100%)
Qualifying Activities for Family Offices
Investment Holdings
Holding of Shares and Other Securities for Investment Purposes
Treasury Services
Treasury and Financing Services to Related Parties
Headquarter Services
Administrative and Management Services to Related Parties
These qualifying activities are particularly aligned with typical family office operations, making RAKEZ an ideal jurisdiction for Single Family Offices seeking tax efficiency. The framework is designed to support sophisticated wealth management operations while maintaining compliance with UAE regulations.
Legal Structures and Documentation
Legal Structure
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) with one to fifty shareholders
Personal Documentation
Colored passport copy or Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
Visa copy and entry stamp (if currently in the UAE)
Corporate Documentation
Shareholders' resolution (for corporate shareholders)
The streamlined business setup process ensures efficient establishment with minimal bureaucratic hurdles. RAKEZ offers comprehensive support throughout the application and registration process, making it accessible for international families seeking to establish their Single Family Office in the UAE.