Real Estate Development in RAKEZ
Starting From
AED 7,500
Setup Time
3 Business Days
Visa Quota
3 Visas
Location
Ras Al Khaimah
About Real Estate Development
As an American national looking to establish a Real Estate Development business in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. United States has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of American professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.
As a free zone entity regulated under Ras Al Khaimah's commercial laws, your Real Estate Development business will benefit from cost-effective licensing and industrial and commercial zones. The RAKEZ licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 7,500.
With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your real estate development setup in RAKEZ. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.
Why RAKEZ for Real Estate Development?
There are several compelling reasons why Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone continues to attract real estate development entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers cost-effective licensing, which is particularly valuable for real estate development 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 real estate development professionals. Furthermore, gateway to northern emirates positions your real estate development 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 real estate enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
For American nationals specifically, the Ras Al Khaimah government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.
Visa Requirements for American Nationals
Banking for American Business Owners
Document Attestation for American Nationals
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Real Estate Development is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RERA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.
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 real estate development business plan and the best RAKEZ licence options for American nationals.
Document Preparation
Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.
Licence Application
Submit the real estate development 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. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.
Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.
Start Operations
Your real estate development 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 American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.
Real Estate Development in Other Jurisdictions
Get Started Today
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Official Source
www.rakez.com ↗Popular in RAKEZ
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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