From Ras Al Khaimah to the world

The UAE is rewriting the map of global manufacturing. Once seen primarily as a trading crossroads, the nation is now a production powerhouse. The results speak for themselves. In 2023, the UAE’s non-oil foreign trade reached an unprecedented Dh3.5 trillion, according to the Ministry of Economy. Non-oil exports alone hit Dh441 billion, a 16.7 per cent increase over the previous year, cementing the sector’s role as a key growth engine and now contributing over 73 per cent of national GDP. These figures reflect the success of the country’s economic diversification strategy and its ability to meet the world’s demand for efficient, high-quality, and reliable supply sources.

Supporting the country’s broader economic transformation is the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, fast emerging as a national manufacturing powerhouse. Over the past decades, Ras Al Khaimah has invested heavily in infrastructure, industrial zones, and logistics facilities, creating an enabling environment for manufacturing, trade, and innovation. With competitive operating costs, and a commitment to sustainability, the emirate has become a compelling destination for companies seeking a base that combines efficiency, connectivity, and quality of life.

Turning the emirate’s industrial vision into reality is Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). This powerhouse has been enabling manufacturers to set up, scale, and reach global markets from a cost-effective and strategically connected base. Therefore, RAKEZ is ultimately strengthening the UAE’s position in the global industrial supply chain by boosting local production and ensuring exports move swiftly and efficiently to markets worldwide.

RAKEZ’s appeal lies in more than just location and infrastructure. It’s the way these assets are integrated into a cohesive, business-friendly environment. Investors gain the advantage of streamlined licensing, competitive setup costs, and flexible facility options, all designed to get operations up and running with minimal delay. Manufacturers can choose from ready-built warehouses, customisable industrial plots, or sector-specific zones that cater to activities from light assembly to heavy industry and advanced manufacturing.

The economic zone also acts as a bridge between production and global markets by embedding services that remove friction from the export process. Its strategic collaborations with logistics providers, financial institutions, and government agencies mean companies can access everything from regulatory clearances to trade finance under one umbrella. By simplifying these essential processes, RAKEZ helps businesses shorten lead times, reduce operational risks, and dedicate more resources to scaling and innovation.

Building on this integrated approach, RAKEZ has cultivated a vibrant portfolio of export-ready companies in Ras Al Khaimah.

Carrot Sun, a leading cosmetic brand, relocated its production to RAKEZ to better serve a fast-growing overseas market and now ships to over 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Swedinox International, a stainless steel and kitchenware manufacturer, uses the zone’s competitive base and transport links to supply global hospitality and F&B clients.

Beyond consumer goods, RAKEZ hosts high-impact industries that bolster the UAE’s international standing. Electra, a leader in event infrastructure, fabricates large-scale installations for global projects including Art Dubai, EXPO 2020, and the FIFA World Cup.

Knightrider Technologies manufactures specialised security gear used by more than 3 million defence and security personnel in 100 countries, underscoring the export readiness of RAK’s industrial capabilities.

Sustainability-focused operations also thrive here. Ni-Met Recycling converts industrial scrap into high-grade recycled metals for steel mills in Europe, North America, and Asia, demonstrating how environmental responsibility can go hand in hand with global competitiveness.

In infrastructure and mobility, Fala Group has spent over a decade delivering construction materials and project solutions across the GCC, while Ashok Leyland’s regional assembly plant produces commercial vehicles for markets in Africa and the Gulf.

RAKEZ’s ability to attract and retain such a diversified portfolio of high-performing manufacturers comes down to three factors: speed, scalability, and seamlessness. Businesses benefit from streamlined licensing, flexible facility options ranging from ready-built warehouses to custom-built factories, and sector-specific zones catering to industries from light assembly to advanced manufacturing. The zone’s strong partnerships with logistics providers, financial institutions, and government agencies also help reduce lead times and operational risk, allowing companies to focus on scaling and innovating for global markets.

Looking to the future, RAKEZ is doubling down on digital transformation, smart infrastructure, and targeted industry clusters. Plans are underway to further enhance its capabilities in high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering, and advanced logistics, all of which reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s position as not just a gateway to the Middle East, but a global hub for smart, sustainable production.

In essence, RAKEZ is where global ambitions find solid ground. It enables businesses to operate in a stable, cost-effective, and globally connected environment where manufacturers can scale, innovate, and forge lasting partnerships. As more companies embrace localised production with global reach, RAKEZ stands as the launchpad driving the UAE’s next chapter as a manufacturing and export powerhouse.