What documents does a Chinese national need to start a ai & machine learning business in the UAE?

You will need a valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in China, attested documents via Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT, and a business plan for your ai & machine learning venture.

How long does it take for a Chinese citizen to set up a ai & machine learning company in RAKEZ?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 3–6 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 13–23 business days.

How long does it take to get a AI & Machine Learning licence in RAKEZ?

The typical processing time for a ai & machine learning licence at RAKEZ is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a AI & Machine Learning company in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone?

Yes, RAKEZ allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What business activities can I include on my RAKEZ licence?

Your RAKEZ licence can include ai & machine learning as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Is Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone good for ai & machine learning start-ups?

RAKEZ is one of the most start-up-friendly jurisdictions in the UAE, offering cost-effective licensing and industrial and commercial zones. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 3,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the annual renewal costs for an AI & Machine Learning business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone?

The annual licence renewal for an AI & Machine Learning RAKEZ company costs approximately AED 7,500, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

AI & Machine Learning in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone for Chinese nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

AI & Machine Learning in RAKEZ

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About AI & Machine Learning

Setting up an AI & Machine Learning business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone as a Chinese citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to China-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of Chinese business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at RAKEZ has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 3 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 7,500, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your ai & machine learning business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why RAKEZ for AI & Machine Learning?

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective licensing, which is particularly valuable for ai & machine learning operations. Additionally, industrial and commercial zones ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 3,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of RAKEZ for ai & machine learning professionals. Furthermore, gateway to northern emirates positions your ai & machine learning business for long-term success in the region. With Ras Al Khaimah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, RAKEZ remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Chinese nationals specifically, the Ras Al Khaimah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Chinese business community.

Cost-effective licensing

Industrial and commercial zones

100% foreign ownership

Gateway to Northern Emirates

Manufacturing facilities

Visa Requirements for Chinese Nationals

Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. Once your ai & machine learning licence is issued by RAKEZ, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 8–15 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Chinese Business Owners

Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations. Several UAE banks have dedicated Chinese business desks and Mandarin-speaking staff. For your ai & machine learning business in RAKEZ, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Chinese business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any China-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Chinese Nationals

Chinese nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for ai & machine learning), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to RAKEZ.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid China passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	7,500
Visa Package (per visa)	3,700
Flexi Desk	3,000
Shared Office	7,000
Private Office	15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 14,200

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your ai & machine learning business plan and the best RAKEZ licence options for Chinese nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from China through Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs / CCPIT and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the ai & machine learning licence application to RAKEZ. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official RAKEZ trade licence within 3–6 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Chinese nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Chinese entrepreneurs benefit from strong UAE-China trade relations.

Start Operations

Your ai & machine learning business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. RAKEZ allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Chinese nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

AI & Machine Learning in Other Jurisdictions

DIC

From AED 15,000

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750

DSO

From AED 12,000