RAKEZ Licence Types Explained: Commercial, Service, Industrial, and More

Set up a business in the UAE, RAKEZ Free Zone is one of the most flexible and affordable options. But before you jump in, it’s important to understand the different Licence types they offer. Choosing the wrong Licence can cost you time, money, and frustration, so let’s break it down in a practical, easy-to-understand way.

Commercial Licence: For Traders and Sellers

The Commercial Licence is for businesses that want to buy, sell, import, or export goods. Think of companies that deal with electronics, furniture, clothing, or other physical products.

For example, if you want to start a store selling imported gadgets in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah, this is the Licence you’ll need. It allows you to legally import goods, store them in warehouses, and sell them either online or offline. Many startups begin with a small warehouse or a flexi-desk option and scale up as sales grow.

Tip: If your plan involves multiple product lines, make sure RAKEZ allows all those categories under one Licence to avoid additional costs later.

Service Licence (Professional Licence): For Consultants and Specialists

The Service Licence is designed for service providers, consultants, freelancers, IT specialists, digital marketers, and other professional service providers.

For instance, if you are a freelance SEO consultant or run a small digital marketing agency, this licence lets you operate legally in RAKEZ. Unlike the commercial licence, there’s no need for warehouses or product storage, you just need a workspace (flexi desk or office) to register.

Pro Tip: Many professionals start with a flexi desk package to save on upfront costs, then upgrade to a private office when they have a few employees or clients coming in regularly.

Industrial Licence: For Manufacturers and Warehousing

If your business involves manufacturing, packaging, or logistics, an Industrial Licence is what you need. This licence covers factories, warehouses, and light industrial operations.

For example, someone producing small furniture items, packaging food products, or managing a logistics company in Ras Al Khaimah would require this licence. RAKEZ offers the necessary space and infrastructure, so you don’t have to worry about renting industrial plots elsewhere.

Note: Industrial setups usually need slightly more paperwork and safety approvals than service-based businesses, so plan ahead.

E-Commerce Licence: For Online Business Owners

The Rakez Free zone E-Commerce Licence is perfect if your business model is entirely digital. Whether you run an online store, a dropshipping business, or sell digital products, this licence ensures your online operations are legal.

For example, a small startup selling fitness equipment through their own website or Amazon could use this licence. RAKEZ even allows flexible office options like a home-based flexi desk, making it easier for small e-commerce businesses to start without heavy upfront costs.

Tip: Check if your licence package includes a residence visa some e-commerce packages don’t, and that can affect your plans if you’re moving to the UAE.

Freelancer Permit: For Individuals Who Work Independently

This is ideal for solo entrepreneurs who don’t need a full office. Freelancers in media, design, IT, or consultancy can legally operate under this permit.

For instance, a freelance graphic designer or social media consultant can work from home, attract clients, and even sponsor one employee if needed. RAKEZ has made it simple to start small but operate professionally.

Advice: Even as a freelancer permit rakez, consider upgrading to a service licence or private office once your client base grows. It makes it easier to work with bigger clients and bid for government projects. Educational or Media Licence: For Training and Content Businesses

If your business is in education or media, RAKEZ provides a dedicated licence for training centers, coaching institutes, and media companies.

For example, if you want to run an IT training center, a language school, or a small production studio, this licence allows you to legally provide courses, workshops, or produce media content.

Pro Tip: Make sure you check any accreditation requirements if you are running professional courses. RAKEZ will help with legal approvals, but it’s better to prepare in advance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right RAKEZ licence is more than just picking a category, it’s about aligning your business model with legal compliance and growth plans.

• Commercial Licence: Great for traders and import/export businesses.
• Service Licence: Ideal for consultants, IT specialists, and agencies.
• Industrial Licence: Perfect for manufacturers and warehouses.
• E-Commerce Licence: For online startups and dropshipping.
• Freelancer Permit: Solo operators who don’t need a big office.
• Educational / Media Licence: For training centers and content creators.

Remember: Starting small is okay, but always plan for long-term growth. RAKEZ flexible packages allow you to scale without forming a new company, which is a huge advantage for startups.