RAKEZ Media Zone: 2026 Setup Guide
RAKEZ Media Zone is one of the UAE’s most cost-effective destinations for media entrepreneurs, creative agencies, and content producers. Regulated by the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), a government authority of Ras Al Khaimah, the zone offers a dedicated licensing pathway for businesses in media production, advertising, publishing, animation, music, and digital content. Packages start from AED 6,000 (~USD 1,633) per year, making it a practical and affordable alternative to larger, higher-cost media free zones elsewhere in the UAE.
This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up in RAKEZ Media Zone in 2026: from permitted activities and legal entities to fees, required documents, visa quotas, and office options. All information in this article has been sourced exclusively from RAKEZ’s official website (rakez.com) and the UAE Federal Tax Authority’s official portal (tax.gov.ae).
Whether you are a freelance journalist, an advertising agency, an animation studio, or a full-scale media production house, RAKEZ Media Zone has a licensing structure and a price point that can accommodate your plans.
What is RAKEZ Media Zone and who regulates it?
Who is RAKEZ?
RAKEZ, the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, is a government authority established under the Government of Ras Al Khaimah. It was formed in 2017 through the consolidation of the RAK Free Trade Zone and the RAK Investment Authority, creating a single, unified economic zone authority for the emirate. According to RAKEZ’s official website, the zone is now home to more than 14,000 businesses from over 100 countries spanning industries that include media, manufacturing, trading, logistics, and technology.
RAKEZ operates as a one-stop shop for all business registration, licensing, and government services. Companies can manage their accounts, submit applications, and track service requests online through RAKEZ’s Portal 360, available at eportal.rakez.com.
What is the RAKEZ Media Zone specifically?
The RAKEZ Media Zone is a dedicated sector within RAKEZ designed for businesses whose primary activities fall within the media industry. It is not a separate physical campus in the way that, say, Dubai Media City has its own precinct, but rather a designated licensing category and business cluster within RAKEZ’s broader free zone framework. Businesses licensed under the RAKEZ Media Zone category benefit from the same infrastructure, facilities, and government services as all other RAKEZ entities, with a licence type and activity list specifically tailored to media operations.
RAKEZ confirms on its official website that the Media Licence is issued for businesses “operating media-related business activities.” The licence is available to individuals, corporate entities, and branches.
Is RAKEZ a government body?
Yes. RAKEZ is wholly owned and operated by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah. This is significant because it means RAKEZ is not a privately operated free zone, but a government authority with full regulatory jurisdiction over its licensed companies. All copyright notices on the official RAKEZ website read: “Copyright 2026 by RAKEZ, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, Government of Ras Al Khaimah.”
What types of companies and business activities are permitted in RAKEZ Media Zone?
What is a RAKEZ Media Licence?
According to RAKEZ’s official licence types page, the Media Licence is designed for “operating media-related business activities.” It is available to individual entrepreneurs and corporate entities under either a Free Zone Entity structure (FZE or FZC) or a Non-Free Zone Entity structure, depending on the applicant’s requirements.
The Media Licence allows companies to include up to 10 business activities from the RAKEZ approved activity list, giving media businesses the flexibility to combine related activities such as content production and advertising consultancy under a single licence. This is particularly useful for full-service agencies that span multiple service lines.
What is the RAKEZ Freelancer Permit for media?
For individuals who want to operate independently in the media sector without forming a company, RAKEZ offers a Freelancer Permit. Per RAKEZ’s official licence types page, this permit is specifically available for “media, education, IT and analysts professionals.” It is an individual permit, not a company structure, and is well-suited to writers, photographers, content creators, videographers, and journalists who want a legal UAE operating presence without the overhead of a full corporate registration.
The Freelancer Permit grants the holder the right to work and invoice clients in the UAE under their own name, and to apply for a UAE Residence Visa.
What activities are covered under the RAKEZ Media Licence?
RAKEZ maintains a comprehensive activity list available at rakez.com/en/start-a-business/license-activity-list, and also publishes a dedicated Media Business Brief Form for applicants. Activities covered under the RAKEZ Media Licence include the following:
| Activity Category | Examples |
| Creative Services | Creative agencies, branding, sales promotion |
| Music | Music distribution, production, publishing, reproduction, recordings |
| Design | Graphic designing, costume designing |
| Advertising and Communications | Advertising agencies, communication agencies, marketing specialty and communications |
| Public Relations | PR agencies, representatives for the public |
| Digital and Content | E-services, content management, digital publishing |
| Events and Production | Event consultancy, production event management, productions |
| Photography and Video | Still photography, video production |
| Media Buying | Media buying, placement, DVD authorisation |
Companies can combine up to 10 activities from the RAKEZ approved list on a single Media Licence. This is particularly useful for agencies and production houses that operate across multiple service lines such as content creation, event management, and PR simultaneously.
Ready to Launch Your Media Business in RAKEZ?
Whether you are a creative agency, content studio, or freelance professional, we help you select the right activities and get your RAKEZ Media Licence in place fast.
How do I set up a company in RAKEZ Media Zone?
According to RAKEZ’s official getting started guide, the registration process follows three steps. RAKEZ states that licences can be issued within a matter of days once all documents are submitted and payment is received.
Step 1: Customise your business setup package
Before submitting any documents, you work with RAKEZ’s Business Development professionals to determine the most appropriate combination of legal entity, licence type, and facility for your media business. This is where you confirm your legal entity type (FZE, FZC, Non-Free Zone Entity, or Branch), which media activities you want on your licence (up to 10), what facility you need, and how many visas you will require in the first year.
This step is important. Getting your activity list right from the start avoids costly amendments later. RAKEZ’s team is reachable via +971 7 204 1111 or through the contact form at rakez.com/en/contact-us.
Step 2: Submit your application and documents
Once your package is confirmed, you complete the Application for Registration and Licensing and submit the required supporting documents. RAKEZ will then issue an invoice, which can be sent to your email or collected from a Business Service Centre. Payment methods include cash, cheque, bank transfer, and online through the Portal 360.
RAKEZ’s Business Development team will guide applicants through document compilation and submission, checking that all requirements are in order before the application is formally submitted.
Step 3: Receive your business licence and begin the visa process
Upon completion of the licensing formalities, RAKEZ issues your business licence along with a registration set and a bank introduction letter. The visa application process can then begin. RAKEZ acts as the official sponsor for all employee and investor visas and handles visa applications on behalf of its licensed companies.
What documents do I need to register in RAKEZ Media Zone?
RAKEZ’s official checklist, available at rakez.com/en/start-a-business/checklists, sets out the required documents based on your legal entity type. The documents differ depending on whether all shareholders are individuals or whether there is a corporate shareholder involved.
Documents required when all shareholders are individuals
- Completed Application for Registration and Licensing (RAKEZ form)
- Completed Application for Chamber of Commerce Membership
- Completed Application for Registration with the Department of Economic Development
- Colour passport copy of all shareholders, general manager, and directors (if applicable)
- Visa copy or entry stamp of all shareholders, general manager, and directors
- Original No Objection Certificate (NOC) for each shareholder and general manager who is a UAE resident
- Emirates ID copy of shareholders and general manager (if applicable)
- Family book and Emirates ID of any UAE national shareholder or local service agent (where applicable)
- Business plan (required only for specific activities as determined by RAKEZ)
- UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) Declaration Form with passport copy
Additional documents required when shareholders include corporate entities
All documents listed above are still required, plus:
- Board resolution authorising the establishment of a company in RAKEZ and appointing a general manager
- Valid trade licence of the parent company
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Commercial Register
- Certificate of Registration
- Certificate of Good Standing or extract from the corporate register
- Certificate of Incumbency
RAKEZ’s official guidance notes that the business plan is only required for specific activities. It is advisable to confirm with RAKEZ’s Business Development team before submitting your application, to avoid unnecessary delays.
Let Us Handle Your RAKEZ Document Preparation
Our team reviews your documents, flags missing items, and submits your application to RAKEZ on your behalf, so your licence is issued without delays.
What are the government fees and setup costs for RAKEZ Media Zone?
How much does the RAKEZ Biz Starter Package cost?
According to RAKEZ’s official promotions page, the Biz Starter Package is available for AED 6,000 (~USD 1,633) per year. RAKEZ explicitly lists this package as suitable for “media and e-gaming” businesses. The package includes:
- Up to 50 shareholders
- Up to 10 business activities (mix and match from the RAKEZ activity list)
- Eligibility for a bank account opening
- Compass Coworking Centre membership
- Access to business networking events
The Biz Starter Package does not include a UAE Residence Visa. It is designed for business owners who do not require UAE-based residency, or who already hold residency through another route.
What does the all-inclusive package include?
As stated on the RAKEZ official website, the all-inclusive business setup package is priced at AED 16,500 (~USD 4,494) per year. This package includes a UAE Residence Visa, making it a complete solution for a sole founder who wants both residency and a trading licence from a single purchase.
| Package | Annual Fee (AED) | Annual Fee (USD approx.) | Visas Included | Facility |
| Biz Starter | AED 6,000 | ~USD 1,633 | 0 | Compass Coworking |
| All-Inclusive (with visa) | AED 16,500 | ~USD 4,494 | 1 | Coworking/Flexi desk |
| BusinessWomen Package | From AED 6,000 | From ~USD 1,633 | Eligible | Varies |
Note: The figures above are sourced from the official RAKEZ website. Facility upgrades to private offices, warehouses, or executive suites will attract additional facility lease costs above the licence package fee. RAKEZ recommends confirming exact pricing at the time of application via +971 7 204 1111 or Portal 360 (eportal.rakez.com).
Are there any hidden fees?
RAKEZ states explicitly on its official website that the all-inclusive package comes with “no hidden fees.” However, businesses should account for additional costs such as facility lease charges for private offices or warehouses, fees for additional business activities beyond the base allowance, and any optional value-added services accessed through RAKEZ’s partner network (vas.rakez.com).
What is the minimum share capital requirement for RAKEZ Media Zone?
RAKEZ does not publish a mandatory minimum share capital figure for standard Free Zone Entity formations, including those registered under the Media Licence. This is consistent with the approach of most UAE free zones, where minimum capital requirements were substantially reduced or removed to encourage foreign investment.
In practice, applicants are advised to confirm the share capital position for their specific entity type and activity combination directly with RAKEZ’s Business Development team. Requirements can differ depending on whether the entity is a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), a Free Zone Company (FZC), or a Non-Free Zone entity. RAKEZ’s team can be reached on +971 7 204 1111.
Want to Know Exactly What Your RAKEZ Setup Will Cost?
Get a personalised cost breakdown covering licence fees, share capital, visa quotas, and facility options, before you commit to anything.
How many visas can I get with my RAKEZ Media Licence?
How does office type affect my visa quota?
Visa eligibility in RAKEZ is tied to the type of facility a company occupies. A coworking or flexi desk arrangement supports a smaller number of visas, while a private standard office, executive office, or warehouse supports a higher quota. As a practical guide:
| Facility Type | Typical Visa Allowance |
| Coworking (Biz Starter, zero-visa) | No visa included; visas require an upgrade |
| All-Inclusive package (flexi/coworking) | 1 UAE Residence Visa included |
| Standard or Executive Office | Multiple visas; quota varies with office size |
| Warehouse or Industrial Facility | Higher quota available; confirm with RAKEZ |
For companies planning to build a team of five or more employees from the outset, it is worth discussing headcount projections with RAKEZ’s Business Development team before selecting your facility. Choosing the right office size from day one avoids the need to upgrade later, which incurs additional time and cost.
Is the UAE Golden Visa available through RAKEZ?
Yes. According to RAKEZ’s official website, RAKEZ supports the UAE Golden Visa programme for qualifying investors and professionals. The Golden Visa provides a 10-year renewable UAE residency to eligible individuals, including property investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals of exceptional talent. Details and eligibility criteria are available at rakez.com/en/customer-services/golden-visa.
What facilities and office options are available in RAKEZ Media Zone?
According to RAKEZ’s official facilities page (rakez.com/en/about-us/facilities), the following workspace types are available to RAKEZ-licensed companies, including those operating under the Media Licence:
Coworking and flexi spaces
The Compass Coworking Centre is RAKEZ’s dedicated coworking hub, designed for freelancers, startups, and small teams. It provides a collaborative working environment with meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and access to a business community of fellow RAKEZ licensees. The Biz Starter Package at AED 6,000 includes membership of the Compass Coworking Centre. This is an ideal starting point for solo media founders or small creative teams who do not need a permanent private office.
RAKEZ also offers serviced offices, described on its official website as “a new type of co-working space in premier business centres that offers permanence and privacy.” These are priced above the coworking option but below a standard private office.
Standard offices
Standard offices are private, self-contained office units designed for SMEs that want to build a market presence without a large floor plate. According to RAKEZ’s official website, these are “cost-effective private office spaces for SMEs opting to build a strong market presence.” They are well-suited to media agencies, communications companies, and editorial teams that need dedicated space for client meetings or confidential production work.
Executive offices and shell & core facilities
Executive offices are larger private spaces for growing companies with bigger teams. Shell and core facilities are undeveloped units that can be “fully customised according to your needs,” as stated on the RAKEZ website. These are the right choice for media businesses that need a bespoke studio fit-out, editing suites, recording booths, or custom broadcast infrastructure.
Warehouses and land for development
While less commonly associated with media operations, RAKEZ offers customisable warehouses of various sizes in proximity to seaports and airports, as well as land plots for large-scale development. These are relevant for media businesses with significant equipment storage requirements, physical media distribution operations, or those building large production facilities.
RAKEZ also provides staff and labour accommodation at its industrial zones, relevant for companies building large production crews on-site.
Not Sure Which Office Type Suits Your Media Business?
From coworking desks to custom studio fit-outs, we help you match the right RAKEZ facility to your team size, visa needs, and production requirements.
What are the key benefits of setting up in RAKEZ Media Zone?
100% foreign ownership
As confirmed on RAKEZ’s official website, companies registered in RAKEZ enjoy 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a UAE national shareholder or local sponsor. This applies to both Free Zone Entities and Non-Free Zone Entities registered through RAKEZ, making it simple for international entrepreneurs to establish and fully control a UAE-based media company.
No customs duty on re-exported goods
RAKEZ operates a customs-duty-free environment for goods re-exported from the zone. Per RAKEZ’s official FAQ, “there are no custom duties on re-exported goods.” This is relevant for media businesses that import production equipment, merchandise, physical media, or other goods into the UAE for onward export.
Cost-effective entry packages
At AED 6,000 per year for the Biz Starter Package, RAKEZ Media Zone is among the most affordable free zone media licences in the UAE. The all-inclusive package at AED 16,500, which includes a UAE Residence Visa, represents a genuine all-in cost for a sole founder looking to establish both a company and legal residency in the UAE simultaneously.
One-stop shop for government services
RAKEZ acts as a central point for all government services including licence registration, visa applications, immigration file management, Emirates ID processing, and Chamber of Commerce membership. Companies do not need to interact separately with multiple government departments. All services are accessible online through Portal 360 (eportal.rakez.com) or at RAKEZ’s physical Business Service Centres.
Strategic location and connectivity
Ras Al Khaimah sits at the northern tip of the UAE, approximately 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport. RAKEZ highlights on its official website its “connectivity to major logistical hubs and multilane super highways” and “easy access to markets across MENA, Europe, and Asia.” RAK International Airport also provides direct connectivity for business travellers. For media businesses that serve regional clients across the Gulf and wider MENA, this location offers a cost-effective base with excellent transport access.
Access to a community of 14,000+ businesses
RAKEZ is home to more than 14,000 businesses from over 100 countries. This creates a substantial business community, with networking events, a range of value-added services (accessible via vas.rakez.com), and support services spanning banking, accounting, recruitment, and VAT compliance. For new media businesses, this ecosystem can accelerate client development and supplier relationships.
How does RAKEZ Media Zone compare with other UAE media free zones?
RAKEZ Media Zone vs Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City (DMC) is one of the UAE’s flagship media free zones, home to major international broadcasters, publishers, and advertising agencies. It is located in Dubai’s media and entertainment district and offers a premium campus environment with high brand recognition.
The primary distinction between the two zones is cost and positioning. RAKEZ Media Zone targets startups, SMEs, freelancers, and cost-conscious media businesses, with entry packages from AED 6,000. Dubai Media City is generally better suited to established media organisations for which brand association with a prestigious Dubai address matters. RAKEZ is the practical choice for businesses that want a legally sound UAE media licence at the lowest possible operating cost; Dubai Media City may suit those where client-facing brand perception is a primary concern.
RAKEZ Media Zone vs twofour54 (Abu Dhabi)
twofour54 is Abu Dhabi’s dedicated media free zone, operated by Abu Dhabi Media and positioned as the region’s creative hub for content production, gaming, and digital media. It has strong studio production facilities and a focus on Arabic-language content.
RAKEZ Media Zone differs primarily in geographic location (Ras Al Khaimah versus Abu Dhabi), cost profile, and facilities focus. twofour54 is well-suited to businesses seeking production studio access and proximity to Abu Dhabi’s government media sector. RAKEZ is more appropriate for businesses that need a cost-effective UAE media licence and flexible workspace, with the ability to scale from a coworking desk to a private office.
Media Free Zone Comparison: RAKEZ vs Dubai Media City vs twofour54
| Feature | RAKEZ Media Zone | Dubai Media City | twofour54 |
| Regulator | RAKEZ (Gov. of Ras Al Khaimah) | TECOM (Dubai) | Abu Dhabi Media |
| Entry-level cost | From AED 6,000/yr | Higher | Higher |
| Foreign ownership | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Freelancer permit | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Location | Ras Al Khaimah | Dubai | Abu Dhabi |
| Best for | Startups, SMEs, cost-conscious media businesses | Established media groups, premium address | Arabic content, production studio users |
Note: DMC and twofour54 fees and requirements should be verified directly with each authority before making a decision. Only RAKEZ figures in this article are sourced from official RAKEZ pages.
Tips
- List all your revenue lines upfront. RAKEZ allows up to 10 business activities on a single Media Licence. If your business generates income from both content production and advertising consultancy, list both from day one. Adding activities later incurs amendment fees and administrative delays.
- Match your facility to your visa needs. The AED 6,000 Biz Starter Package covers zero visas. If you need a UAE Residence Visa, budget for the AED 16,500 all-inclusive package or confirm alternative visa add-on options with RAKEZ. Planning this correctly at the outset avoids a facility upgrade process later.
- Set up Portal 360 on day one. RAKEZ’s self-service online portal (eportal.rakez.com) allows licence renewals, visa applications, and service request submissions without visiting the RAKEZ office. Late immigration file renewals incur penalties, so setting up the portal early and tracking renewal dates is essential.
- Check whether your activities require a business plan. Most standard media activities do not require a business plan, but certain specific activities do. Confirming this with RAKEZ’s Business Development team before submitting your application will avoid unnecessary delays in the process.
- Explore RAKEZ value-added services. RAKEZ partners with third-party providers for banking, accounting, VAT registration, recruitment, and website development, all accessible via vas.rakez.com. Using these approved partners can reduce the time it takes to become fully operational after your licence is issued.
Ready to Set Up Your Media Business in RAKEZ?
RAKEZ Media Zone gives you 100% foreign ownership, a government-backed licence, and a growing community of 14,000+ businesses, from AED 6,000 per year. Our team at businesssetuphq.com has over 22 years of combined experience helping entrepreneurs and agencies establish UAE free zone companies. We handle the paperwork, liaise with the authority, and make sure your setup is done correctly from day one.
Get a free consultation today at businesssetuphq.com/contact-business-setup-hq/
Frequently Asked Questions about RAKEZ Media Zone
Yes. RAKEZ is a government authority of Ras Al Khaimah, formed in 2017 through the consolidation of two existing RAK government authorities. All businesses registered with RAKEZ are licensed by a government entity.
The RAKEZ Biz Starter Package starts at AED 6,000 (~USD 1,633) per year. This zero-visa package is suitable for media and e-gaming businesses and includes coworking membership, up to 10 activities, and eligibility for a bank account opening.
Yes. RAKEZ confirms 100% foreign ownership for both Free Zone and Non-Free Zone entity formations. There is no requirement for a UAE national shareholder or local sponsor.
RAKEZ states on its official getting started guide that licences can be issued within a matter of days once all documents are submitted and payment has been received.
Yes. RAKEZ offers a Freelancer Permit specifically for media, education, IT, and analyst professionals. This allows individuals to operate as a sole practitioner in the UAE without forming a full company structure.
RAKEZ does not publish a mandatory minimum share capital figure for standard Free Zone Entity formations under the Media Licence. Applicants should confirm this directly with RAKEZ’s Business Development team at the time of registration.
Yes. RAKEZ supports the UAE Golden Visa programme for qualifying investors and professionals. Full details are available at rakez.com/en/customer-services/golden-visa.
No. According to RAKEZ’s official FAQ, there are no customs duties on re-exported goods within the RAKEZ zone.
As per the UAE Federal Tax Authority, a 9% corporate tax applies to taxable income exceeding AED 375,000. Companies with annual revenue below AED 3 million may qualify for Small Business Relief until the end of 2026. Full guidance is available at tax.gov.ae.
Licence renewals can be submitted through Portal 360 at eportal.rakez.com. RAKEZ’s official FAQ notes that late renewal of the immigration file incurs penalties, so renewals should be initiated well before the expiry date.
Business Setup HQ is a consultancy firm which aims to bring the best out of entrepreneurs and their businesses through knowledge. It helps in Business Setup in UAE.
