Car Rental in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone for British nationals
Free ZoneServicesRegulated Activity

Car Rental in RAKEZ

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Car Rental

The UAE continues to attract British entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAKEZ is one of the most popular jurisdictions for car rental operations. One of the largest Western expatriate communities (~120,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone gives your Car Rental business access to Ras Al Khaimah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from RTA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up car rental businesses in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why RAKEZ for Car Rental?

Choosing RAKEZ for your car rental business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective licensing, which is particularly valuable for car rental 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 car rental professionals. Furthermore, gateway to northern emirates positions your car rental 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 services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Cost-effective licensing
Industrial and commercial zones
100% foreign ownership
Gateway to Northern Emirates
Manufacturing facilities

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your car rental 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 British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your car rental business in RAKEZ, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for car rental), 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 United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from RTA
7Relevant industry experience documentation
8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Car Rental is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RTA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee7,500
Visa Package (per visa)3,700
Flexi Desk3,000
Shared Office7,000
Private Office15,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 14,200

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your car rental business plan and the best RAKEZ licence options for British nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the car rental licence application to RAKEZ. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

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

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

7

Start Operations

Your car rental 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 British nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your car rental in RAKEZ? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionRAKEZ
TypeFree Zone
EmirateRas Al Khaimah
License FeeAED 7,500
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota3
Activity Code45110

Official Source

www.rakez.com

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

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