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RAK DAO Business License Cost 2025 | Full Pricing Breakdown for Web3 Startups

by Shethana Jul 11, 2025 7 MIN READ

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RAK DAO business setup—short for Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis—isn’t just another UAE free zone; it’s the first designed specifically for Web3, blockchain, and digital asset ventures.

For entrepreneurs with NFT projects, DeFi protocols, crypto consultancies, or blockchain development ideas, RAK DAO provides a regulatory environment tailored to the digital economy.

Previously, startups had to fit their Web3 business with RAK DAO free zone vision into zones not built for it. Now, with RAK DAO company formation, founders benefit from a focused, potentially more affordable ecosystem.

Before you dive into your RAK DAO business setup, analyzing the RAK DAO business license cost is crucial.

Budget fine-tuning ensures your UAE digital asset business gets the most out of every dirham, from registration and licensing to visa and post-setup services.

This guide details what a RAK DAO licensing package covers, the costs involved, potential add-ons, and tips to keep your startup budget in check.

What is a RAK DAO Business License?

RAK DAO business license is purpose-built for the digital economy, enabling entrepreneurs to operate legally in NFTs, dApps, metaverse platforms, blockchain development, crypto advisory services, tokenization, and more.

Whether you’re a solo freelancer, an early-stage RAK DAO Web3 startup, or an established RAK DAO blockchain company looking to expand, this license is for you.

Key features:

  • No traditional office or large team required
  • Lean, digital-first setups are welcome
  • License fees vary by business activity, team size, and support services

Base Cost of RAK DAO Business License

The RAK DAO business license cost typically starts between AED 12,000 and AED 18,000. This base fee covers:

  • Business activity approval
  • Company registration under the free zone
  • Government processing fees
  • Basic support services

Fee by Activity Type:

  • Advisory or consulting in Web3: Lower end
  • NFT marketplace or blockchain platform: Mid-range
  • Crypto custodial or DeFi services: Higher-end

Note: These are government and authority costs only. Add-ons like visas or office space are extra.

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Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the base license, setting up a RAK DAO crypto business may involve optional or situation-based costs:

  • Flexi-desk or virtual office: AED 3,000–5,000
    (Needed for banking or compliance; see RAK DAO office space)
  • Visa issuance (optional): AED 3,000–7,000 per visa
    (Depends on number and validity period; relates to RAK DAO investor visa)
  • Medical and Emirates ID: ~AED 1,500
    (If applying for a residency visa)
  • Corporate bank account assistance: AED 2,000–5,000
    (Helpful for newcomers to UAE banking)
  • Legal drafting: Variable
    (MOA, shareholder agreement, custom structuring)
  • Regulatory or tech compliance support: Custom pricing
    (Important for DeFi, smart contracts, token issuance)

Most RAK DAO business set up projects will need at least two or three of these, depending on their roadmap.

RAK DAO Startup Packages and Bundled Pricing

RAK DAO startup license packages simplify budgeting, especially for solo founders or small teams. These bundles often include:

  • License fee
  • Visa for one or two individuals
  • Shared or virtual office
  • Basic legal documents

Sample Package Breakdown (1 Visa Option):

ParticularsAmount (AED)
1-Year Trade License MOAIncluded
Certificate of FormationIncluded
Share Percentage CertificateIncluded
Bank Account Opening AssistanceIncluded
E-channel Registration1,050
1 Visa Allocation29,435
UID Generation Cost900
Residence Visa FeesIncluded
Medical and Emirates IDIncluded
Total31,385

Bundled pricing offers predictability and often discounts for early-stage founders or those applying during promotional periods.

Cost Comparison | RAK DAO vs Other UAE Free Zones

Free ZoneStarting License CostFocusIdeal For
RAK DAOAED 12,000Web3, Digital AssetsStartups, dApps, NFT projects
DMCCAED 30,000+General + CryptoTrading firms, exchanges
ADGMAED 40,000+Regulated FinanceInstitutional investors
IFZAAED 10,000General BusinessFreelancers, SMEs
  • RAK DAO free zone benefits: Purpose-built for Web3, affordable for bootstrapped teams, and flexible on structure.
  • IFZA is cheaper but not tailored to digital assets.
  • ADGM is for heavily regulated, institutional players.

Factors That Influence RAK DAO License Cost

Not every RAK DAO registration process is the same. Key variables include:

  • Number of shareholders: More partners = more paperwork, possible higher fees
  • Business activity type: Lower risk (NFT development) vs. higher risk (crypto wallets)
  • Office requirements: Virtual setups are cheaper than physical offices
  • Visa needs: Not all founders require visas, but those who do should budget for medical, Emirates ID, and stamping fees
  • Add-ons: Legal docs, IP registration, or banking help add to the total

Understanding these factors helps you optimize your RAK DAO business cost.

Tips to Minimize Setup Cost at RAK DAO

  • Start with core activities only—you can expand later
  • Choose virtual or flexi-desk options if you don’t need a physical office
  • Look for bundled offers or startup packages—they’re often more cost-effective
  • Work with an experienced setup consultant familiar with RAK DAO regulations and hidden costs
  • Apply early—RAK DAO offers incentives during its launch and expansion phases

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Conclusion

If you’re building a web3 business with RAK DAO free zone and want a UAE base, RAK DAO makes a compelling case. With license costs starting around AED 12,000 and flexible add-ons, it offers a strong mix of affordability and relevance. It’s not the cheapest, but for digital asset startups, the value is hard to beat.

Bottom line: Budget wisely, plan your structure, and leverage bundled packages to get started. For help calculating your total rak dao business license cost, consult a licensed expert.

FAQs

Is there an annual renewal fee?
Yes, annual renewals typically match the base license cost, starting from AED 12,000.

Are there any hidden fees?
Only if you overlook optional costs like visa, office space, or legal services. Always request a full quote upfront.

Can I upgrade my license later?
Absolutely. You can add activities or visas as your business grows.

Do I need to hire staff to get a license?
No. Solo founders and remote teams are eligible under most types of business licenses in RAK DAO.

For more details on RAK DAO legal requirementsrak dao crypto license, or the RAK DAO registration process, reach out to a business setup consultant and explore the full potential of your RAK DAO business setup journey.

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