Travel & Tourism in RAK DED
Starting From
AED 5,500
Setup Time
2 Business Days
Visa Quota
0 Visas
Location
Ras Al Khaimah
About Travel & Tourism
Establishing a Travel & Tourism business in RAK Mainland positions you at the heart of Ras Al Khaimah's dynamic commercial landscape, with access to a market of over 9 million consumers.
The licensing process at RAK DED has been streamlined significantly, with most tourism licences processed within 2 business days. With the recent changes to UAE commercial law, 100% foreign ownership is now available for most mainland activities. The base licence fee is approximately AED 5,500, making it one of the most affordable options in the UAE.
At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your travel & tourism business in RAK Mainland. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.
Why RAK DED for Travel & Tourism?
RAK Mainland is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for tourism businesses, and for good reason.
The jurisdiction offers cost-effective setup, which is particularly valuable for travel & tourism 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 travel & tourism professionals. Furthermore, tourism and hospitality growth positions your travel & tourism 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 tourism enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Travel & Tourism is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from DTCM is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.
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
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your travel & tourism business objectives, optimal licence structure, and RAK DED as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For travel & tourism, additional documents including professional qualifications and DTCM approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Following DED approval, your Ras Al Khaimah mainland trade licence is issued within 2 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct travel & tourism activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 5,500.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 3,200. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your travel & tourism business in RAK Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
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, following the recent amendments to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most mainland activities, including travel & tourism. Previously, a local sponsor holding 51% was required, but this is no longer the case.
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Official Source
www.rak.ae ↗Popular in RAK DED
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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