Pharmacy in RAK Mainland for British nationals
MainlandHealthcareRegulated Activity

Pharmacy in RAK DED

Starting From

AED 5,500

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Pharmacy

As a British national looking to establish a Pharmacy business in RAK Mainland, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United Kingdom has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of British professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a mainland entity regulated under Ras Al Khaimah's commercial laws, your Pharmacy business will benefit from cost-effective setup and industrial land availability. The RAK DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 5,500.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your pharmacy setup in RAK DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why RAK DED for Pharmacy?

There are several compelling reasons why RAK Mainland continues to attract pharmacy entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for pharmacy 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 pharmacy professionals. Furthermore, tourism and hospitality growth positions your pharmacy 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 healthcare 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 setup
Industrial land availability
Trade anywhere in the UAE
Tourism and hospitality growth
Strategic northern location

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 pharmacy licence is issued by RAK DED, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 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 pharmacy business in RAK DED, 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 pharmacy), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to RAK DED.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
7Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
8Passport-sized photographs with white background

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

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee5,500
Visa Package (per visa)3,200
Ejari Office5,000
Co-Working3,000
Private Office10,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 13,700

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

Setup Timeline

1

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your pharmacy business plan and the best RAK DED 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 pharmacy licence application to RAK DED. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official RAK DED trade licence within 2–5 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 pharmacy 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, British nationals can own 100% of most mainland business activities including pharmacy.

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your pharmacy in RAK DED? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionRAK DED
Typemainland
EmirateRas Al Khaimah
License FeeAED 5,500
Setup Time2 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code86300

Official Source

www.rak.ae

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.

Ready to Start Your Pharmacy?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your pharmacy in RAK DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.