RAKEZ, UAE–India CEPA Launch Start-up Series for Indian Ventures

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) has signed a significant partnership agreement with the UAE–India CEPA Council to support Indian start-ups aiming to expand globally. The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which marks an important step in strengthening economic ties between the UAE and India while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.

The MoU was signed by Yaser Abdulla Al Ahmed, Chief Government and Corporate Relations Officer at RAKEZ, and Ahmed Aljneibi, Director of the UAE–India CEPA Council. This agreement aims to create opportunities for Indian start-ups to enter the UAE market smoothly, receive support, and grow internationally.

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Strategic Importance of the Partnership

Yaser Abdulla Al Ahmed explained the significance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a strategic step in connecting economic policy with entrepreneurial opportunity. By joining forces with the CEPA Council, we are enabling Indian start-ups to access the UAE market with ease. Our role goes beyond facilitating entry; we aim to build an ecosystem that allows these start-ups to thrive and make a long-lasting impact on UAE–India economic relations.”

This MoU reflects a shared vision of supporting innovation-led growth and creating a structured pathway for start-ups to expand their business globally. RAKEZ’s expertise in providing business-friendly infrastructure and the CEPA Council’s role in promoting trade between India and the UAE form the backbone of this initiative.

The UAE–India Start-up Series

Under this partnership, RAKEZ and the CEPA Council will launch the UAE–India Start-up Series, a flagship initiative designed to identify and support high-potential Indian start-ups. The Series will focus on promoting the internationalisation of promising ventures and offering them access to global markets.

The process will begin with a rigorous evaluation of start-up applications. From thousands of entries, 20 start-ups will be shortlisted to participate in a high-profile pitch event held in New Delhi. During this event, a panel of experts will select five winning start-ups, which will receive specialized support, including incubation, mentorship, and access to the UAE market.

RAKEZ has also committed to sponsoring one of the top five winners, providing a comprehensive soft-landing package that will help the start-up establish itself in the UAE efficiently.

Overwhelming Response from Indian Entrepreneurs

Ahmed Aljneibi highlighted the tremendous response to this initiative, stating, “We are delighted to see over 10,000 Indian start-ups showing interest in the UAE–India Start-up Series. This incredible response demonstrates the energy and innovation within India’s entrepreneurial community. The UAE is becoming a global launchpad for start-ups, and our partnership with RAKEZ is about more than signing an MoU—it is about creating real pathways for start-ups to grow and succeed internationally.”

This response shows the strong demand among Indian entrepreneurs to expand beyond their local markets and highlights the UAE as a preferred destination for start-ups seeking global exposure.

RAKEZ’s Vision for Supporting Start-ups

Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, shared his vision for the initiative: “Indian start-ups are leading the way in global innovation. Their growing interest in the UAE reflects the strength and diversity of the Ras Al Khaimah ecosystem. Through this partnership with the CEPA Council, we aim not only to provide support but also to empower bold ideas, turning ambitious projects into reality. RAKEZ offers a launchpad where Indian entrepreneurs can scale their businesses, reach global markets, and contribute to the UAE–India growth story.”

This statement underlines RAKEZ’s commitment to building a supportive ecosystem for start-ups. It is not only about providing office space or legal assistance; it is about mentoring, networking, and giving start-ups the tools to thrive in a competitive international environment.

Turning Government Agreements into Real Opportunities

The UAE–India Start-up Series is the first initiative of its kind under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) framework. It is designed to turn government-to-government agreements into tangible opportunities for entrepreneurs. By linking Indian start-ups with the UAE’s business environment, the initiative demonstrates how international cooperation can directly support innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Series provides start-ups with access to:

• World-class infrastructure in the UAE

• Global business networks for scaling internationally

• Mentorship and incubation programs

• Support in navigating cross-border regulations

By offering these resources, RAKEZ and the CEPA Council aim to accelerate growth, encourage cross-border collaboration, and set new standards for innovation-driven economic development.

Building Long-Term Value for Both Economies

The partnership between RAKEZ and the CEPA Council is not just about short-term opportunities; it is about creating long-term value for both India and the UAE. By enabling Indian start-ups to expand internationally, the initiative strengthens economic ties, encourages innovation, and fosters sustainable growth.

The initiative also positions the UAE as a preferred destination for global entrepreneurs. By supporting Indian start-ups in entering and succeeding in the UAE, it enhances the country’s role as a regional hub for innovation and business expansion.

The RAKEZ and UAE–India CEPA partnership is a landmark initiative in the field of entrepreneurship. By offering structured support, mentorship, and market access, it provides Indian start-ups with the tools to grow and succeed internationally. With thousands of applications already received, the UAE–India Start-up Series demonstrates the appetite among Indian entrepreneurs for global expansion and the UAE’s commitment to supporting innovation-led growth.

This initiative is set to create a positive impact on the UAE–India economic corridor, fostering innovation, investment, and a shared vision of sustainable growth for the future. By connecting the brightest start-ups in India with the UAE’s business-friendly environment, RAKEZ and the CEPA Council are building a platform where ideas can transform into successful global ventures.