pexels apasaric 5686514 Picsart AiImageEnhancer

RAK DAO – The UAE’s First Digital Asset Free Zone for Web3, Blockchain, and Virtual Economy Innovators

RAK DAO – The UAE’s First Digital Asset Free Zone for Web3, Blockchain, and Virtual Economy Innovators The Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO free zone) represents the world’s first and only free zone specifically dedicated to enterprises and businesses dealing with digital assets, blockchain, Web3, the metaverse, artificial intelligence, DeFi, DAOs, gaming, and the virtual economy. Located in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK DAO was established in recognition of the new technology revolutionizing internet-based businesses and provides the regulatory framework to support digital innovation. RAK DAO is a cutting-edge hub for founders, developers, creators, and innovators who are building the future of decentralized technology. Differing from traditional free zones in the UAE that support operations in trade, manufacturing, or services, RAK DAO is fully purpose-built for virtual enterprises and the Web3 ecosystem. RAK DAO provides legal clarity and government-backed regulations to support businesses who work with digital tokens, decentralized platforms, NFTs, smart contracts, metaverse infrastructure, and digital intellectual property. Further, 100% foreign ownership, zero income taxes, strong protections for intellectual property, and support for decentralized governance allows businesses to create, grow, and establish their digital-first ventures in a compliant environment. RAK DAO provides unmatched flexibility, credibility, and connectivity whether you’re developing a blockchain protocol, NFT marketplace, metaverse world, AI or DeFi staking app, or DAO organization. It also provides seamless access to global venture capital networks, institutional partnerships, and crypto-focused financial services—making it the best gateway for tech visionaries looking to build from the Middle East to global markets. Why Choose RAK DAO for Your Digital Business? 100% Foreign Ownership & Profit Repatriation RAK DAO allows global founders to have complete control of their company without the requirement of owning a UAE national sponsor. Investors can also repatriate 100% of their capital and profits, which allows for complete ownership freedom and global financial mobility – key advantages for an international Web3 and blockchain entrepreneur.  Zero Corporate & Personal Tax Companies established in RAK DAO will operate in a completely tax-free environment. There is no tax on corporate entities or personal income and there is no capital gains tax on digital assets, which will allow blockchain startups, crypto entities and established technology founders to maximize profitability and allow them to reinvest profits back into growth, innovation and token development.  First Regulatory-Free Zone for Web3 & Digital Assets RAK DAO is the world’s first sovereign jurisdiction created for digital asset companies. RAK DAO provides a legally recognized environment for Web3, DeFi, Metaverse, and AI projects while removing regulatory grey areas for digital asset companies, decentralized entities, exchange platforms, and DAO-based governance models.  Legal Framework for DAOs, NFTs, and Tokenization RAK DAO provides complete legal protection for digital content creators and protocol builders with a legal framework specifically designed for smart contracts, token issuance, DAOs, and NFT IP. It facilitates the launch of tokens, custody of digital assets, and development of blockchain protocols under a regulated license. Access to Worldwide VC Networks & Digital Investors RAK DAO connects founders with funding and investment opportunities globally through venture capital investors, blockchain institutions, accelerators, launchpads, and angel networks. It gives guidance on fundraising, token launch strategies, investor roadshows, and strategic partnerships. RAK DAO is essentially a launchpad for crowdfunding and an ecosystem for growth in Web3. No Requirement for a Physical Office (Virtual Companies Allowed) RAK DAO exemplifies remote-friendly, fully digital company setups for founders to incorporate without the necessity of renting physical office space. Through auctioning e-residency and virtual options, all global entrepreneurs can build, operate, and scale Web3 ventures completely online — perfect for decentralized and global teams. Dubaisetupnow License Types Offered in RAK DAO 1. Digital Asset License This license caters to businesses operating within the core blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem. This includes companies that are actively working within the following sectors: non-custodial crypto exchanges, blockchain development platforms, tokenization projects, DAO development, smart contracts, digital wallets, staking platforms, and DeFi infrastructure. In short, RAK DAO will provide support along with legal clarity (and certainty) that will allow the founders/developers to build a vocally compliant blockchain product that is designed to scale globally, addressing regulatory concerns across multiple jurisdictions. 2.Web3 & Metaverse License This license is specifically tailored for the creators of immersive digital worlds. Support will be provided for metaverse developers, creators of 3D virtual worlds, blockchain-based game studio development, digital identity management, avatar development, and decentralized social ecosystems. This will allow prospective founders to design their virtual economies, host tokenized assets, and deal with NFTs through the Web3 communities, encouraging the continual expansion of GameFi, VR/AR, metaverse creation. 3. Software & Technology License This license is for companies that offer software development, AI-based platforms, SaaS products, cybersecurity, data analytics, blockchain infrastructure, cloud computing services, and tech consulting services. This license encompasses companies developing the digital back-bone of the Web3 ecosystem, including enterprise-grade platforms, decentralized applications (dApps). 4.Creative & Digital Content License Designed with digital creators and media innovators in mind, the Creative and Digital Content license is a perfect solution for NFT artists, horror studios, virtual production companies, AR/VR storytellers, animation studios, digital design firms, and metaverse content creators working within a business context to create virtual assets, 3D content, video artwork, digital collectibles, and/or other immersive experiences while utilizing Web3 technology. 5.Consultancy & Advisory License The Consultancy and Advisory license is specifically for professional firms in consulting services and industry agnostic professional services in areas such as compliance in blockchain, tokenomics consulting, DAO governance, LEGAL consulting, smart contract auditing, cybersecurity consulting, and investor, investment strategy for Web3 founders. Additionally, it works with legal professionals, auditing professionals, strategic consultants, and VC consultants who work with digital asset companies in managing and navigating compliance related to security and regulatory issues domestically and internationally. Dubaisetupnow Key Business Activities in RAK DAO Blockchain & DeFi Projects RAK DAO is there for companies building blockchain-based financial ecosystems, including decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, staking and yield farming protocols, tokens issuance services, decentralized exchanges (DEX), liquidity pools, smart contracting infrastructure, and..

Dubai business setup in 2026 comparison chart

Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone: The UAE’s Most Affordable & Flexible Hub for Trading, Services, Manufacturing & Freelancers

Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone: The UAE’s Most Affordable & Flexible Hub for Trading, Services, Manufacturing & Freelancers The Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) has become one of the UAE’s most strategic, cost effective, and business-friendly locations. UAQ FTZ allows 100% foreign ownership, has 0% corporation tax, inexpensive licenses, and over 1,000 allowed business activities, making it a perfect vehicle for entrepreneurs, international traders, consultants, e-commerce businesses, and manufacturers to create long-term venture in the UAE without heavy financial burdens. UAQ FTZ is truly unique in its flexibility across most industries, whether it is import/export, general trading, consultancy, digital services, industrial manufacturing, freelancing, education, media, or logistics. In contrast to many of the pricier free zones, UAQ FTZ allows investors to license multiple business entities and models under one licensed activity, making it one of the best platforms for startups, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), and international businesses wishing to establish a scalable presence in Strategically positioned just 30 minutes from Dubai and Sharjah, UAQ FTZ offers excellent connectivity to major airports, seaports, and GCC trade corridors, giving businesses direct access to Middle Eastern, African, Asian, and European markets. Its simplified regulations, fast licensing process, and no annual audit requirement make it one of the fastest and easiest free zones for setting up and operating a company in the UAE. Key Benefits of UAQ Free Trade Zone 100% Foreign Ownership & Full Repatriation of Profits UAQ FTZ enables investors full ownership of a business without a requirement for a local Emirati partner. This form of ownership and independence works well for foreign entrepreneurs and provides complete operating control and legal protection. All profits and capital can be fully repatriated, enabling business owners around the globe to manage businesses without financial restrictions for the security of revenues and profits over the longer-term horizon. No Corporate or Personal Income Tax By utilizing UAQ Free Zone you are potentially operating in a tax-free environment with no corporate income tax, no personal income tax, and no withholding or dividend taxes. UAQ FTZ is also very attractive for business owners looking for maximum profitability, faster ROI, and longer term sustainability in the rapidly expanding UAE economy.  No Customs Duty on Import/Export within Free Zone UAQ FTZ provides duty-free benefits when goods are imported, manufactured, or re-exported within the free trade zone. This is a significant benefit to companies involved in international trading, logistics, and distribution that depend on undertaking cross-border movement of goods. Customs impedes movement for all goods, and UAQ FTZ can take away those hurdles; this allows companies to operate within a seamless global supply chain while reducing overhead costs.  The Relatively Lowest-Cost Free Zone Licenses in the UAE Compared to the expensive free zones in other parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAQ FTZ features some of the cheapest business license packages in the UAE, costing only a few thousand dirhams. This is ideal for entrepreneurs, startups, or SMEs wishing to do business duly and lawfully while avoiding costly long-term capital commitments. Visa and Non-Visa License Options (Ideal for Freelancing & Remote Entrepreneurs) UAQ FTZ has flexible business packages that can include or exclude residence visas. Freelancers, consultants, and online businesses can apply for non-visa licenses to keep their costs down. Companies with employees may apply for multiple visas under the same business license. This flexibility is ideal for various modern and digitally advancing entrepreneurs or founders working remotely.  No Annual Auditing or Financial Reporting Many UAE free zones demand companies be audited and submit accounting financial reports annually. This not only adds compliance costs, but adds pressure on small businesses and accounting professionals to ensure accurate records for online submission. UAQ FTZ does not demand companies to conduct yearly audits or even prepared accounting reports on their financials. Not having these built-in requirements benefits small businesses, one-person companies, or new or adjusted startups looking for peace of mind. Easy Access to Dubai, Sharjah & International Trade Routes Despite being located in a quieter northern emirate, UAQ FTZ is strategically positioned just 30 minutes from Dubai and Sharjah. With close proximity to major airports (DXB, SHJ) and seaports (Jebel Ali, Khalid Port), it provides seamless trade connectivity for companies targeting Middle East, Africa, India, and European markets. Dubaisetupnow License Types in UAQ FTZ 1.Commercial License Applicable to companies that are involved in trading activities including import, export, distribution, wholesale and retail, of physical items. This license provides commercial pathways for companies of every category within the FMCG, electronics, construction materials, auto parts, furniture, textiles, and cosmetics, as well as every other product, allowing businesses to engage in regional and international markets with full commercial rights. 2.General Trading License Best for businesses trading in multiple and diverse product categories under one license, maximizing flexibility for global traders and e-commerce resellers working as import or export companies, working with mixed goods like general merchandise, fashion, electronics, and food items, with no strict category restrictions. 3.Service / Professional License Best for service-based businesses or consulting firms, if your services are professional based services, this often fits business category needs. Examples are accounting, consulting and HR advisory, IT service companies, training, marketing, media services, etc. This license allows expertise or professional services based businesses to engage legally anywhere in the UAE and outside of the UAE. 4.Industrial / Manufacturing License This license is for companies engaged in light or medium-scale industrial activities, including manufacturing, assembly, production, bottling, packaging, and fabrication. UAQ FTZ helps developing this sort of business by providing warehousing, industrial land and logistics capabilities to import/export, raw materials and finished products. 5.Freelance Permit A low-cost license for individuals and self-employed persons who wish to operate their business under their name/brand. Good for freelancers working in media, content creator, graphics, consulting, education, IT, digital marketing, photography and remote services! Provides legal status without a full company set-up! Dubaisetupnow Major Business Activities Supported UAQ FTZ licenses over 1,000 activities across sectors including:  Trading & Import Export Includes purchasing and selling..

To Top

Get Your Business License & 2-Year UAE Residency Visa –

From Only AED 5,999 Upfront!

  • Free zone trade license
  • 2-year UAE residency visa
  • 100% ownership
  • 5 business activities
  • Lease agreement, VAT & PRO services
Get Started