Located in the Northern region of the United Arab Emirates, Ras Al Khaimah is becoming a popular city with expatriates due to its rapidly developing economy. Many expatriates are choosing to move their offices here or to set up their businesses in this small emirate.
It is strategically located in proximity to major routes linking to other emirates and is only a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport. It also has its own international airport.
It currently has a population of about 231,000, which is growing steadily year on year. The number of visitors to Ras Al Khaimah is also on the rise, and tourism is its most significant economic sector.
Job hunting in Ras Al-Khaimah
If you wish to move to Ras Al Khaimah and work there, it is advisable to secure employment before proceeding, as this will make you eligible for a visa to stay and work there. Make sure you have the qualifications and skills required by the local labor market.
Word-of-mouth
Word-of-mouth and referrals are always among the most effective options for securing employment in the UAE as a whole, and Ras Al Khaimah is no different from this.
Online listings
Online job listings are another good option. Companies post their job vacancies on websites such as Dubizzle, Bayt, and GulfTalent.
Recruitment agencies
Employment recruiters, such as Alliance, are a popular choice among job seekers and can help you find the right fit. It is important to note that if you get hired, your employer should handle any recruitment fees.
Social media
Finally, another way to land a job is to research some companies based in Ras Al Khaimah that may be interesting to you and reach out to them on LinkedIn to explore possible job opportunities.
Find more information in the article Work in the United Arab Emirates.
Key industries in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al-Khaimah has seen an increase in tourism, with its largest international markets from Russia, Kazakhstan, the United Kingdom, and Germany. It is establishing itself more and more as a leisure and adventure destination. Also, the production of construction materials (for export), manufacturing, high technology, real estate, and insurance and banking services are key sectors where you can find a job. Note that agriculture and fisheries also make a significant contribution to the local economy.
There are currently over 18,000 companies from over 100 countries based in Ras Al-Khaimah. The primary industries are tourism, oil, real estate, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and fisheries.
The development of the free zone also took its stride over the past few years, favoring the creation of more jobs in the region. This is mainly due to the country's economic growth and the tax benefits it provides.
Tourism and hospitality sectors
Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 600,000 tourists in the first half of 2023, the highest number of visitors over the span of 6 months in the emirate's history. The emirate's Hajar mountains, Jebel Jais zipline, beaches, and hiking trails have contributed to the rise in visitors, both internationally and domestically.
This increase has created a higher demand for facilities such as hotels, restaurants, and cafes, opening the door to further job opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Tourism is expected to continue to grow, with plans to open the UAE's first casino in Ras Al Khaimah in 2026. Businesses are already planning and preparing in anticipation of this.
Oil and gas sectors
Oil and gas is a key industry in Ras Al Khaimah, regulated by the RAK Petroleum Authority. This has created a demand for engineers, technicians, surveyors, project managers, and more.
Real estate sector
Ras Al Khaimah has become a hotspot for real estate investors by boasting affordable luxury amongst a beautiful landscape. The emirate's attractive lifestyle has also brought in large numbers of expats looking to live and work there. This constant growth has created endless job opportunities for those looking to enter the real estate market, with buying or renting property being constantly in high demand. Some popular agencies include RAK Real Estate.
Ras Al Khaimah Free Zone
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (previously known as RAK FTZ) is a tax-free area that offers 100% foreign ownership, attracting many business owners to open their offices there. The free zone consists of six free zone areas:
- Al Ghail Industrial Zone – This zone is tailored for large-scale industrial manufacturing enterprises. This has opened the door for a large number of factory-based job opportunities;
- Al Hamra Industrial Zone – Catering to both light and heavy industry projects, this free zone area offers a wealth of warehouses and offices which come with plenty of work prospects;
- RAKEZ Academic Zone – This area was established for educational institutions and training facilities, offering jobs that range from teaching to administrative roles;
- Al Hulaila Industrial Zone – Catered towards businesses involved in heavier industrial projects, this provides job opportunities in the manufacturing industry;
- Al Nakheel Business Zone – Built as a hub for startups, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and SMEs, a growing number of job vacancies in technology have become available;
- Al Hamra Business Zone – The businesses established in this area have introduced work opportunities in logistics, leisure, and other commercial activities.
Salaries in Ras Al Khaimah
According to Salary Explorer, the salary average is around AED 13,700 per month. Typically, salaries range from AED 2,490 AED (lowest average) to AED 65,400 (highest average).
Salaries can drastically vary depending on the industry you are in, as well as your job role. It also depends on your level of experience within that sector, and you can expect salary increases the longer you work at a specific company. Below is the approximate salary range (per month) per industry in Ras Al Khaimah:
- Accounting and Finance salaries range from AED 5,950 to AED 28,000;
- Administrative salaries range from AED 5,690 to AED 11,900;
- Advertising / Graphic Design / Event Planning salaries range from AED 7,040 to AED 14,100;
- Architecture salaries range from AED 6,500 to AED 16,600;
- Banking salaries range from AED 4,380 to AED 24,500;
- Construction salaries range from AED 5,310 to AED 23,200;
- Engineering salaries range from AED 12,300 to AED 13,300;
- Tourism and hospitality salaries range from AED 3,470 to AED 26,200;
- Teaching salaries range from AED 9,470 to AED 10,600.
It's important to look into your overall salary package to ensure that it includes details on the breakdown of housing, healthcare, and education allowances. Most companies offer a housing allowance, and all companies should provide employees with health insurance. While it's not the standard, you will find that some companies also cover education fees for those moving with their kids.
Taxes in Ras Al Khaimah
This emirate is a “no tax” emirate, meaning companies can enjoy zero income tax. Personal income is also tax-free for employees in the emirates. Furthermore, those who want to set up their businesses enjoy 100% foreign ownership. Inheritance tax need not be paid, and there is no limit on the number of shareholders a company can have.
Transportation in Ras Al Khaimah
Unlike some of the other emirates, Ras Al Khaimah would not be considered pedestrian-friendly. You will definitely need other means to get around, especially during the summer months. Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) operates public buses, known as City Buses, which run regularly through popular locations and connect more isolated areas to the city center. Bus fares are a little bit higher than you would normally expect, costing around AED 8 for one line. Bus cards, known as the “Saqr Card”, can be purchased and come in three categories:
- Blue Card - Available for everyone, costing AED 30 with AED 20 going into your account for first-time use;
- Silver Card - Available for students and senior citizens, costing AED 20 and offering 50% off all trip fees;
- Gold Card - Available for people of determination (people with disabilities), offering free rides with no purchase cost.
Taxis are easy to find around the emirate and can be hailed directly off the road. If you prefer to pre-book your taxi, you can do so by calling 800 1700 or making a booking through the Careem app.
You may also opt for renting or buying a car. Driving is the best mode of transportation in Ras Al Khaimah, but keep in mind that road rules and regulations are strictly enforced. It is important to be aware of traffic laws and stay alert when it comes to speed limits, as they carry hefty fines.
Commuting to Ras Al Khaimah
If you land a job in Ras Al Khaimah but prefer to live in another emirate, commute times are definitely something to consider. Depending on which emirate you choose to live in, you may be looking at long hours on the road. Below are some of the commute times from other emirates, although this may vary depending on your exact location within each one:
- The drive from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 1 hour 13 minutes;
- The drive from Abu Dhabi city center to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes;
- The drive from Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 1 hour;
- The drive from Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 55 minutes;
- The drive from Fujairah to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes;
- The drive from Ajman to Ras Al Khaimah is approximately 55 minutes.
Unless your company offers a remote working arrangement, working in Ras Al Khaimah and living elsewhere could mean up to five hours on the road every day.
Benefits of working in Ras Al Khaimah
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are usually the first places that come to mind when expats consider working in the UAE, but Ras Al Khaimah has become an equally attractive option. We've highlighted some of the benefits of working and living in the emirate.
Employment options
As previously mentioned, Ras Al Khaimah's expanding free zones have lured more and more businesses to set up shop in the emirate. This has created a high employment demand, making job vacancies widely available with plenty to choose from. Regardless of the industry you are in, there is no shortage of work opportunities in the emirate.
Affordable luxury
Expats who are looking to save money without sacrificing the luxurious lifestyle of the UAE will find Ras Al Khaimah the perfect place to call home. The cost of living in the emirate is lower than in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with monthly expenses ranging from approximately AED 4,350 to AED 16,250 (depending on the number of people in your household).
With the right budgeting and financial planning, it is a lot easier to maintain the same standard of luxurious living sought after in other emirates and still have a little extra cash to put on the side.
Weekends at home
Many UAE residents throughout the country flock to Ras Al Khaimah on the weekends or for a staycation. The emirate is home to a number of impressive leisurely activities, from pristine beaches to stunning hiking trails. It also boasts a wealth of historical sites, such as the Dhayah Fort and the National Museum. Living in Ras Al Khaimah means that you won't need to venture very far to enjoy your weekends and long breaks.
Over the years, Ras Al Khaimah has grown to become a hotspot for expats looking to work in the UAE. Its low cost of living, luxurious lifestyle, and exciting activities make it perfect for individuals and families seeking the UAE experience on a budget.
Useful links:
Ras Al Khaimah Official Portal
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