Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone announced the conclusion of its roadshow across Beijing and Hangzhou with the signing of a memorandum of understanding that establishes a framework for enhanced cooperation in investment promotion. The pact was inked with the Shanghai International Economic Foundation during engagements that included high-level meetings with government bodies and business executives, according to a statement from the authority. Group CEO Ramy Jallad led the delegation, which focused on positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a gateway for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand into the Middle East and beyond. The initiative forms part of RAKEZ’s sustained outreach to strengthen bilateral economic links with China.
RAKEZ data places the number of Chinese companies already operating within its ecosystem at more than 400, spanning high-tech manufacturing, medical equipment, LED lighting, construction materials and food production. A RAKEZ assessment found that these firms benefit from the zone’s comprehensive support services, including licensing, visa processing and access to industrial land. The latest roadshow sought to build on this base by identifying fresh opportunities in sustainable technologies and advanced logistics. Such engagements have become a regular feature of RAKEZ’s international strategy.
In an interview carried by China Daily, a RAKEZ executive said, “At RAKEZ, our role is to translate that broader relationship into practical business opportunities.” The executive added that the authority maintains partnerships with free trade zones and local government departments in Tianjin, Liaocheng and Foshan to streamline business setup for Chinese investors. These collaborations cover logistics, employee visas and provision of warehouses and offices, facilitating smoother market entry. The roadshow reinforced RAKEZ’s role in supporting the Belt and Road Initiative through tangible project facilitation.
The economic zone has expanded to host 50,000 registered companies overall, a milestone that RAKEZ attributes to its investor-centric policies and diverse free zone offerings. Earlier missions to Chinese cities including Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Suzhou yielded similar agreements that have driven growth in sectors such as renewable energy and smart manufacturing. Jallad has previously noted that continuous dialogue with Chinese partners helps uncover synergies in areas like electric mobility and circular economy solutions. This latest visit aligns with that pattern of deepening ties.
Discussions during the Beijing and Hangzhou events centred on how RAKEZ’s infrastructure can accelerate Chinese capacity cooperation in the region, moving beyond traditional trade. The authority reported productive exchanges with industry associations and potential investors interested in establishing regional headquarters. By highlighting Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic location and business-friendly regulations, the roadshow aimed to convert interest into concrete investment commitments. RAKEZ continues to target next-generation industries to diversify the emirate’s economy.
