RAK DAO Crypto License: Launch Your Web3 Business in UAE

The UAE is fast becoming a global hub for crypto and Web3 innovation. The country is attracting founders from every corner of blockchain owing to its progressive regulations and digital infrastructure.

Strategically located in Ras Al Khaimah, the DAO makes the location very crypto-friendly and founder-friendly so that the setup of a business can be fast, flexible, and fully compliant.

Whether you’re planning a RAK DAO business setup as a sole trader or a digital assets fund exercising management of his/her own capital, this proprietary trading license is designed to allow you to flourish in the Web3 economy without the usual burden of traditional financial regulation.

Enter RAK DAO, Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis, the first free zone specifically created for digital asset companies. If you plan to set up a crypto or Web3 business, here’s a short introduction into what a RAK DAO crypto license is, who can get them, and how you can obtain one.

In this article, you’ll get detailed insights on how to get your RAK DAO crypto license and eventually launch your Web3 business with RAK DAO free zone in the UAE.

What is RAK DAO?

RAK DAO stands for Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis. Launched by the RAK government in 2023, it’s a specialised free zone designed to attract digital asset companies, including startups and global firms in:

• Blockchain
• Web3 development
• NFTs
• Metaverse platforms
• DeFi
• Crypto exchanges and consultancies

This allows founders an innovation-led, regulation-lite launch and scaling space, while also providing RAK DAO and its location in the northern UAE with added benefits because of easier access to regional markets while being tied to a robust legal and financial system in the country.

RAK DAO startup license options are particularly attractive for developers building DeFi tools or a metaverse platform.

What is a RAK DAO Crypto License?

A RAK DAO crypto license allows you to legally operate a crypto-related business in the UAE under the RAK DAO jurisdiction.

It’s designed specifically for Web3-native business models, making it easier to get licensed compared to more traditional zones.

Eligible business types include:

• Crypto exchanges
• Wallet service providers
• Blockchain consultancies
• NFT platforms
• Tokenization and digital asset management services
• DApps and smart contract developers

How is it different? Compared to other UAE zones like DMCC or ADGM, RAK DAO offers lower entry barriers, faster setup, and a lighter regulatory load, ideal for startups and early-stage projects. It is one of the most accessible types of business licenses in RAK DAO for emerging Web3 companies.

Who Should Apply for a RAK DAO Crypto License?

If you’re building anything in the Web3 space, RAK DAO is worth a serious look. It’s especially suited for:

• Web3 and blockchain startups
• NFT marketplace founders
• Crypto advisory firms
• Developers building DeFi tools or metaverse platforms

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The RAK DAO startup license is tailored for entrepreneurs looking for speed, flexibility, and affordability. You also get 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and the ability to scale globally from a UAE base. RAK DAO is ideal if you want a supportive launchpad with minimal red tape but maximum potential.

Benefits of Getting a Crypto License from RAK DAO

Here’s what makes RAK DAO stand out:

• 100% foreign ownership – no need for a local partner
• Quick setup – licenses can be issued in days
• No corporate tax (up to a profit threshold)
• Clear regulations backed by the UAE government
• Access to UAE banking (with proper structuring)
• Eligibility for UAE residency visas
• Startup-centric ecosystem – network with like-minded founders and innovators

It’s built for builders, giving crypto entrepreneurs the freedom and foundation to focus on product, not paperwork. The RAK DAO business license cost is also one of the lowest among UAE free zones, which makes it ideal for early-stage projects.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a RAK DAO Crypto License

Setting up in RAK DAO is straightforward. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Choose your business activity
Step 2: Decide your legal structure (most go with FZ-LLC)
Step 3: Submit KYC documents and shareholder info
Step 4: Pay the license fee and apply for initial approval
Step 5: Once approved, your RAK DAO crypto license is issued
Step 6 (optional): Open a corporate bank account
Step 7 (optional): Apply for UAE residence visas for you and your team

The entire RAK DAO business setup process can take as little as 1–2 weeks with the right guidance.

Cost of Setting Up a Crypto Business in RAK DAO

RAK DAO is built for cost-conscious startups. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• License fees: AED 11,500 to AED 15,000
• Business setup package: AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 depending on the scope
• Office space: Usually virtual or flexi-desk options

Optional add-ons:

• UAE visa: AED 3,000 to AED 5,000
• Bank account setup: varies
• Compliance services vary based on the activity

Overall, it’s one of the most affordable crypto zones in the region, ideal for MVP-stage businesses. This makes the RAK DAO business license cost very competitive for founders seeking a lean entry strategy.

Here is the package overview for 1 Visa Option (cost differs as the number of visas increases):

Particulars	Amount
1-Year Trade License MOA
Certificate of Formation
Share Percentage certificate
Bank account opening assistance
E-channel registration
1 Visa Allocation	29,435
UID Generation Cost	900
E-Channel Registration	1,050
Residence Visa Fees	Included
Medical and Emirates ID	Included
Total	31,385

RAK DAO vs DMCC vs ADGM: Which Crypto License Is Best?

Feature	RAK DAO	DMCC	ADGM
Cost	Low	Medium to High	High
Speed	Fast	Moderate	Slower
Regulation	Startup-friendly	Strict	Institutional-grade
Best For	Startups, Web3 founders	Mid-size firms	Large exchanges, VCs

If you’re a solo founder or a small team just getting started, RAK DAO business setup gives you speed, savings, and simplicity. Larger operations may lean toward ADGM or DMCC depending on the scope and compliance needs.

To help with global business expansion
make sure you choose us.

Get in touch with our team to find out about our approach

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Conclusion

RAK DAO is the UAE’s boldest move yet to support the global Web3 wave. With a streamlined setup, founder-friendly rules, and a clear path to operate legally, it’s an ideal home for crypto entrepreneurs ready to build.

Thinking of launching your Web3 business with RAK DAO free zone in the UAE?
Now’s the time to act while the ecosystem is still growing and competitive advantages are real.

Need help? Talk to a trusted business setup consultant like Arnifi to get personalized advice and kick off your RAK DAO business setup with confidence.