What documents does a German national need to start a public relations business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Germany, attested documents via German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, and a business plan for your public relations venture.

How long does it take for a German citizen to set up a public relations 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 much does it cost to set up a Public Relations business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone?

The total setup cost for a Public Relations business in RAKEZ starts from approximately AED 7,500 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 3,700 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my RAKEZ Public Relations licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from RAKEZ, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What are the tax implications for a Public Relations business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in RAKEZ may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my RAKEZ licence?

Your RAKEZ licence can include public relations 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 public relations 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.

Public Relations in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone for German nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Public Relations in RAKEZ

Starting From

AED 7,500

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Ras Al Khaimah

About Public Relations

The UAE continues to attract German entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and RAKEZ is one of the most popular jurisdictions for public relations operations. Strong German business community (~15,000), 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 Public Relations 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. The Public Relations 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 public relations 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 Public Relations?

Choosing RAKEZ for your public relations 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 public relations 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 public relations professionals. Furthermore, gateway to northern emirates positions your public relations 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 German nationals specifically, the Ras Al Khaimah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large German business community.

Cost-effective licensing

Industrial and commercial zones

100% foreign ownership

Gateway to Northern Emirates

Manufacturing facilities

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

For German entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your public relations business in RAKEZ.

Banking for German Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your public relations company in RAKEZ: German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand German business structures.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

Document attestation for German nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Germany, (2) Attestation by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to public relations businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

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

5Signed application form from RAKEZ authority

6Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

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 public relations business plan and the best RAKEZ licence options for German nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the public relations 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. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

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

Start Operations

Your public relations 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 German nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Public Relations in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750