Ras Al Khaimah’s investment readiness takes spotlight

Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly cementing its reputation as a dynamic destination for global capital, industrial expansion, and commercial innovation.

As the emirate continues to attract significant investment across sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, real estate, and services, the need for robust infrastructure and integrated business support has never been more vital. This compelling economic evolution was placed firmly in the spotlight at the 3rd Annual Ras Al Khaimah Investment and Business Summit (RAKIS) 2026. Taking centre stage as a Government Partner, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) showcased the emirate’s remarkable investment readiness and the wealth of opportunities awaiting both emerging enterprises and established multinationals.

The summit served as a crucial meeting point for government representatives, industry leaders, investors, and businesses eager to explore strategic partnerships and avenues for economic growth across the emirate.

Fostering dialogue and strategic partnerships

To transform ambitious economic goals into tangible realities, a collaborative ecosystem is essential. At RAKIS 2026, the focus was heavily placed on cultivating these necessary connections. The event provided a fertile ground for exploring the emirate's expanding industrial capabilities and diverse business growth opportunities.

RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad highlighted the significance of the event, stating: “RAKIS has become an important platform for bringing together the people and ideas driving Ras Al Khaimah’s economic future. We are pleased to support the summit as a Government Partner, as it creates valuable opportunities for dialogue, new partnerships and meaningful connections between investors and the wider business community. Events like these are essential to translating shared ambitions into tangible investment and business opportunities.”

Preparing the infrastructure for future investments

As the influx of capital accelerates, the availability of suitable commercial spaces and tailored infrastructure becomes the backbone of sustained success. Addressing this evolving demand, RAKEZ Chief Commercial Officer Anas Hijjawi delivered a keynote address titled ‘Ras Al Khaimah’s Readiness for Investment and Growth’. The presentation outlined how the emirate is preparing to accommodate fresh investments while concurrently supporting the expansion of existing ventures.

Central to this readiness are two major developmental projects designed to create an ecosystem that addresses industrial, commercial, and lifestyle requirements:

• Al Ghail Industrial Zone: A cornerstone project where RAKEZ is significantly expanding industrial capacity and bolstering supporting infrastructure.

• RAK Central Square: A modern development intended to offer state-of-the-art commercial spaces and premium amenities to meet the needs of growing businesses and their employees.

Emphasising the proactive approach required to support enterprises, Hijjawi commented: “Investment readiness is about anticipating what businesses need and creating the right environment for them to grow. Through developments such as Al Ghail and RAK Central Square, we are strengthening Ras Al Khaimah’s industrial and commercial capabilities, while ensuring investors have access to the infrastructure and support services needed for long-term success.”

Building local supply chains and national value

Beyond physical infrastructure, the summit placed a heavy emphasis on strengthening domestic manufacturing and generating greater economic value through local supply chains. During a dedicated panel discussion titled ‘Make in the Emirates: Building Local Supply Chains & National Value Creation’, RAKEZ Chief Strategy Officer Puneet Jain articulated the strategic priorities arising from Ras Al Khaimah’s growing construction and real estate sectors.

With approximately 1,000 manufacturing companies operating within RAKEZ, the organisation is focused on several key initiatives:

• Attracting complementary industries to diversify the local economic base.

• Encouraging deep collaboration between suppliers.

• Connecting local manufacturers with lucrative opportunities to serve domestic and regional markets.

These priorities operate in perfect alignment with the UAE’s wider industrial development agenda. Most notably, they support the Make it in the Emirates initiative and the National In-Country Value Programme, which strive to fortify domestic production capabilities, streamline supply chains, and maximise national economic value creation.

Practical pathways for global entrepreneurs Beyond high-level discussions, RAKIS 2026 offered a practical look at how investors can establish a foothold in the region. At a dedicated exhibition stand, RAKEZ experts provided visitors with a comprehensive overview of cost-effective business set-up solutions, industrial land, warehousing options, and ongoing business support services.

With a thriving community of more than 50,000 companies from over 100 countries, RAKEZ continues to bridge the gap between Ras Al Khaimah’s investment ambitions and the vital infrastructure required to realise them. By facilitating new partnerships and championing industrial diversification, the economic zone remains a driving force in securing the emirate's long-term economic competitiveness on the global stage.