Can RAKEZ Be Your Next Big Business Move?
For many SMEs in India, the dream of expanding globally often comes with a hefty dose of logistical hurdles and financial worries. But what if there was a place that offered not just a welcoming environment, but also the tools and connections to make that leap smoother? That's the story Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) has been writing with Indian businesses for years, a narrative recently reinforced by their week-long roadshow across Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune.
Led by RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad, the delegation wasn't just on a trip; they were continuing a long-standing conversation. As Jallad put it, "India is a key market for us and home to one of our strongest investor communities. Our relationship with Indian businesses goes beyond participation in events and exhibitions. We have built deep-rooted connections through years of continuous engagement, and we are proud to be the go-to hub for thousands of Indian companies expanding into the UAE and beyond." This isn't just corporate speak; it reflects the reality for over 9,500 Indian investors who have already made RAKEZ their base – making India the top contributor to their community of 35,000+ companies.
Connecting in Hyderabad
The roadshow kicked off in Hyderabad at the Expand Middle East event. Here, RAKEZ solidified its commitment to the Indian business community by signing a MoU with the World Telugu Information Technology Council (WTITC). This agreement, signed by Jallad and WTITC Chairman Sundeep Makthala, is designed to help Telugu businesses specifically tap into global opportunities through Ras Al Khaimah. Beyond the formal signing, the RAKEZ team also took the time to visit T-Hub, an innovation campus, and T-Works, one of India's largest prototyping centres. These visits suggest a deeper interest in understanding and supporting the innovation ecosystem within India.
Mumbai's Startup Scene
Next, the team moved to Mumbai, a city synonymous with ambition. RAKEZ participated in the launch of the UAE–India Start-up Series at the Mumbai Start-up Sundowner. This initiative by the UAE-India CEPA Council aims to identify and support promising Indian startups, aligning perfectly with RAKEZ's own focus on nurturing new businesses. The delegation also engaged with key figures like the UAE Ambassador to India – H.E. Dr. Abdulnasser Alshaali, CEPA Council Director Ahmed Aljneibi, and Bombay Industries Association President Hitesh Shah, exploring avenues for further economic cooperation.
Why Ras Al Khaimah Resonates
So, what makes RAKEZ such a magnet for Indian businesses? It's a combination of practical advantages. Think cost-effective setup options, crucial for any SME looking to manage expenses. Then there's strong connectivity to regional and global markets, which is vital for reaching new customers and supply chains. And it's not a one-size-fits-all approach; RAKEZ offers tailored support for startups, SMEs, and industrial players, recognising that different businesses have different needs.
Major Indian players like Mahindra, MSSL, Dabur Naturelle, Ashok Leyland, and Xpro Dielectric Films (part of the Birla Group) have already seen success operating from RAKEZ, showcasing its ability to support a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to FMCG and automotive.
Beyond the practicalities, RAKEZ has also built a strong network of partnerships with major Indian industry organisations. Collaborations with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), All India Association of Industries (AIAI), UAE-India CEPA Council, Indian Economic Trade Organisation (ITEO), and The Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) all underscore a genuine commitment to empowering Indian enterprises on a global scale.
This recent roadshow is just one piece of RAKEZ's larger international outreach strategy. They continue to actively engage with key global markets, not just to attract investors, but to build strategic partnerships that foster a supportive environment for businesses to grow. For Indian SMEs eyeing international expansion, Ras Al Khaimah seems to be positioning itself as a reliable and effective launchpad.
