Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone Enhances UK Economic Ties Through Successful London Roadshow

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) recently wrapped up a five-day promotional tour in London. Led by Group CEO Ramy Jallad, the team engaged in business meetings and media interactions. They also celebrated the UAE’s 53rd Union Day at the UAE Embassy in London. This visit aimed to boost economic ties between Ras Al Khaimah and the UK, positioning the emirate as an attractive investment destination for British businesses.

The roadshow underscored Ras Al Khaimah's appeal as a business hub, highlighting its favourable tax policies, efficient logistics, and strategic location. These factors provide access to both regional and global markets. The emirate's diverse non-oil economy offers growth opportunities in sectors like tourism, real estate, advanced manufacturing, education, and technology. RAKEZ plays a crucial role by offering a supportive environment for foreign investors aiming to establish or expand their operations in the UAE.

Jallad remarked on the enduring partnership between the UAE and the UK, which has flourished over 52 years through collaborations in trade, energy, climate action, and cultural exchange. He stated, "Ras Al Khaimah is at the forefront of this relationship, offering British businesses a strategic gateway to the Middle East and beyond." RAKEZ supports over 2,200 UK companies ranging from SMEs to global leaders by providing essential tools and infrastructure for success.

The UAE ranks as the UK's 18th-largest trading partner with more than 5,000 UK enterprises operating within its borders. A vibrant community of 120,000 British nationals further strengthens this bilateral relationship. Ongoing negotiations for a UK-GCC Free Trade Agreement and a UK-UAE Sovereign Trade Agreement highlight deepening economic connections between these nations.

Ras Al Khaimah hosts numerous British companies through RAKEZ across various sectors. Notable names include Ahmad Tea, a global tea producer; A2C, leading laptop remanufacturer; and Spatial Composite, specialising in aircraft cabin simulators. The emirate also accommodates manufacturers like Manchester Paperbags and JRL Fabrications alongside international social enterprises such as Waste to Wonder.

Known for its safety standards and quality of life, Ras Al Khaimah attracts British investors, professionals, and families. The emirate provides a supportive business ecosystem alongside a vibrant community environment suitable for both work and living.

Promoting Economic Collaboration

The London roadshow highlighted the enduring UAE-UK partnership while showcasing Ras Al Khaimah as an international business hub. By fostering meaningful connections and promoting unique advantages of the emirate, RAKEZ continues attracting global enterprises. This effort paves the way for enhanced economic collaboration and shared prosperity.

The roadshow reaffirmed RAKEZ's commitment to nurturing ties with British businesses while exploring new opportunities for mutual growth. As Jallad noted during his reflection on the trip: "This roadshow reaffirms our commitment to nurturing these ties and exploring new opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation."

With inputs from WAM