What documents does a Filipino national need to start a fashion design business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Philippines, attested documents via Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and a business plan for your fashion design venture.

How long does it take for a Filipino citizen to set up a fashion design company in RAK DED?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

How much does it cost to set up a Fashion Design business in RAK Mainland?

The total setup cost for a Fashion Design business in RAK DED starts from approximately AED 5,500 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,200 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Fashion Design company in RAK Mainland?

Yes, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including fashion design. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my RAK DED Fashion Design licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from RAK DED, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Mainland companies typically have the widest choice of banking partners. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Fashion Design business in RAK Mainland?

The annual licence renewal for a Fashion Design RAK DED company costs approximately AED 5,500, 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.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Fashion Design company in RAK DED?

Most of the setup process for a fashion design business in RAK DED can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

Fashion Design in RAK Mainland for Filipino nationals

MainlandProfessional

Fashion Design in RAK DED

Starting From

AED 5,500

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Fashion Design

The UAE continues to attract Filipino entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAK DED is one of the most popular jurisdictions for fashion design operations. Third-largest expatriate community in the UAE (~700,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from RAK Mainland gives your Fashion Design business access to Ras Al Khaimah's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as ejari office, co-working, private office and excellent connectivity. The Fashion Design activity does not require any special regulatory approvals beyond the standard trade licence, simplifying the setup process considerably.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up fashion design businesses in RAK Mainland 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 RAK DED for Fashion Design?

Choosing RAK DED for your fashion design business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for fashion design operations. Additionally, industrial land availability ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 3,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. Trade anywhere in the UAE further enhances the appeal of RAK DED for fashion design professionals. Furthermore, tourism and hospitality growth positions your fashion design business for long-term success in the region. With Ras Al Khaimah continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, RAK DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Cost-effective setup

Industrial land availability

Trade anywhere in the UAE

Tourism and hospitality growth

Strategic northern location

Visa Requirements for Filipino Nationals

For Filipino entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your fashion design business in RAK DED.

Banking for Filipino Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your fashion design company in RAK DED: Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation. A solid business plan helps expedite the process. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Filipino business structures.

Document Attestation for Filipino Nationals

Document attestation for Filipino nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Philippines, (2) Attestation by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to fashion design businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Philippines passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Completed application form for trade licence

6Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	5,500
Visa Package (per visa)	3,200
Ejari Office	5,000
Co-Working	3,000
Private Office	10,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 13,700

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your fashion design business plan and the best RAK DED licence options for Filipino nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Philippines through Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the fashion design licence application to RAK DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official RAK DED trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Filipino nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Filipino entrepreneurs can open corporate accounts with standard documentation.

Start Operations

Your fashion design business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Since the UAE's 2020 Commercial Companies Law amendment, Filipino nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including fashion design.

Fashion Design 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