Latest news with #RAKDAO
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE visa, bank accounts included as digital creator licence launched in RAK
Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) has introduced the UAE's first Digital Creator Licence, designed uniquely for influencers, streamers, and educators. This licence offers a comprehensive business setup that includes a licence, visa, and a bank account, all specifically tailored to the needs of digital content creators, through a partnership with the Web3-based platform Lyvely. Licence holders gain an official business setup, benefiting from zero corporate and personal income tax, 100 per cent foreign ownership, and access to RAK DAO's ecosystem of partnerships, networking, and support services. Paul Dawalibi, CEO of RAK DAO, stated that the license addresses one of the creators' biggest barriers to credibility in the eyes of banks, brands, and investors. 'We wanted to give them a legal wrapper so they can be taken seriously. This is about turning what many see as a side hustle into a recognised, sophisticated business,' he said. RAK DAO is a free zone in the UAE dedicated to supporting companies in the digital and virtual asset space. It is designed to foster innovation in sectors such as blockchain, Web3, NFTs, and DAOs, offering a supportive legal framework, business licensing, and access to resources for companies in these industries. Unlike other free zone licenses, the Digital Creator License is built for digital content creation. Creators on Lyvely's platform get full business ownership, legal independence, and access to benefits usually reserved for standard RAK DAO businesses. The licence addresses common challenges like banking and partnerships, and opens up new ways to earn money that generic licences do not offer. The licence enables creators to diversify their income, secure brand deals, launch services, and control their earnings and intellectual property as a legitimate business. The application is fast and simple: creators sign up on Lyvely, then complete a streamlined setup with RAK DAO, often becoming licensed and banked within days. Applicants worldwide receive the same tax and ownership benefits as UAE-based businesses, along with the added convenience of operating in free zones. 'This license expands the universe of possibilities for creators,' Dawalibi added. 'They can operate globally, open new revenue streams, and take control of their professional futures, all with the credibility and advantages that come from being a legitimate business.' Why Ras Al Khaimah Ras Al Khaimah offers a cost of living that's nearly half that of Dubai, plus tax-free advantages. As Dawalibi explains, while Dubai shares some of these benefits, its high living costs typically mean that only top executives relocate there, while most developers and workers remain in different countries. In contrast, Dawalibi highlights that RAK's affordability makes it practical for companies to bring entire teams, including developers, together in one place, rather than keeping them spread out internationally due to high costs.
Entrepreneur
04-08-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Lyvely and RAK DAO Launch Region's First Digital Creator Trade License
The license will empower content creators, influencers, streamers, educators, and digital entrepreneurs to formally register their creator businesses under UAE jurisdiction, granting them access to the full suite of business, residency, and banking infrastructure. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. Lyvely, the UAE's first social monetization platform, has partnered with RAK DAO (Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis) to officially launch the Digital Creator Trade License — the first license of its kind in the Middle East. The license will empower content creators, influencers, streamers, educators, and digital entrepreneurs to formally register their creator businesses under UAE jurisdiction, granting them access to the full suite of business, residency, and banking infrastructure. "This is more than just a license — it's a gateway to freedom, ownership, and legitimacy for millions of creators who have been underserved by traditional economic systems," said Farah Zafar, co-founder and CEO of Lyvely. "We are building the foundation for the future of income — one where creators are seen, supported, and empowered to thrive." For the first time, digital creators in the UAE and globally can Register a 100% creator-owned business within a Web3 and digital asset-native free zone, Obtain a residency visa and access to UAE corporate banking services, Receive regulatory clarity and long-term security for digital revenue streams, Access tools for cross-border monetization, tokenized earnings, and scalable brand building. The partnership between Lyvely and RAK DAO enables creators to move from "platform-dependent hustlers" to legally recognized entrepreneurs in control of their income, identity, and intellectual property. "RAK DAO is not just enabling the future of technology, innovation, and Web3 — we are accelerating it," said Paul Dawalibi, CEO of RAK DAO. "This initiative with Lyvely is a clear example of our commitment to building creator-first, founder first, regulation-forward ecosystems that support innovation without borders and fuel the start up ecosystem which puts RAK firmly on the map." This license is more than a regional first—it is a strategic signal. As global creators face increasing de-platforming risks, algorithmic control, and lack of ownership, the UAE is positioning itself as a safe haven for sovereign creators, offering infrastructure, capital access, and business support within a forward-thinking regulatory framework. Lyvely, backed by Phoenix Group, is at the forefront of this shift. With its hybrid monetization stack—including memberships, gated content, affiliate commerce, live gigs, tipping, and token-based rewards—Lyvely is shaping the infrastructure for the next generation of digital work. "We envision a world where creators across the world can monetise their passion and now with RAK DAO they can fully legitimize their business through this creator liecnse in under 10 minutes said Dave Catudal, co-founder of Lyvely. "This partnership makes that vision real."
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
RAK DAO partners with SuiHub MENA to capitalize on the UAE's web3 growth momentum
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO), the UAE's pioneering Free Zone dedicated to digital assets and blockchain enterprises, today announced a strategic partnership with SuiHub MENA, the regional innovation hub supporting the growth and scaling of startups within the Sui blockchain ecosystem. Through this collaboration, RAK DAO will serve as an official partner for the SuiHub MENA Accelerator Program, providing entities with the resources and support to tap into the region's regulatory and licensing infrastructure. In a significant expansion of its global footprint, Sui selected Dubai in 2024 as its inaugural location for the first SuiHub, aligning with the Emirate's progressive approach to digital innovation. RAK DAO's ecosystem is already home to over 500 Web3 companies spanning GameFi, NFTs, non-custodial wallets, proprietary trading firms, and Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs). Kristof Lukovich, CEO of SuiHub MENA, stated, 'SuiHub MENA's partnership with RAK DAO presents a unique opportunity for startups to work in a supportive environment where they can focus on their growth. We believe that by building strong, long-term strategic collaborations with Govt. entities, regulatory bodies, and licensing authorities, we are positively contributing to helping the ecosystem further develop here in the UAE. We are proud of our partners and are delighted to formalize our collaboration with RAK DAO.' Luc Froehlich, Chief Commercial Officer at RAK DAO, emphasized the strategic alignment behind this partnership, saying, "The esteemed presence at this signing highlights the strategic importance of our partnership with SuiHub MENA. Together, we are strengthening the UAE's global reputation as a magnet for blockchain innovation and talent. This collaboration significantly accelerates the journey of Sui ecosystem startups from conceptualization to scalable businesses." With Sui's ecosystem experiencing rapid institutional investment, surpassing $118 billion USD billion in total decentralized exchange (DEX) volume and nearing a billion USD in stablecoin volume, the strategic partnership positions RAK DAO at the forefront of supporting and scaling the next generation of high-growth Web3 ventures. Paul Dawalibi, CEO of RAK DAO, commented: 'The partnership with SuiHub MENA reinforces our commitment to enabling high-growth blockchain ventures with the tools and infrastructure they need to thrive. At RAK DAO, we're focused on building an ecosystem that combines regulatory clarity with global connectivity, and collaborations like this are central to that vision.' In addition, it significantly advances the UAE's leadership in digital assets and blockchain innovation, fostering increased global investment, attracting top-tier international talent, and accelerating the region's economic diversification and sustainable growth. —--About RAK DAO:RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) is the world's first and only Free Zone with Common Law features established to support and nurture digital assets companies. In the UAE Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK DAO offers a transparent legislative framework that simplifies the process of opening and operating digital assets companies. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem and providing comprehensive services, RAK DAO drives the future of emerging sectors, propelling innovation, and unlocking the potential of digital assets. About SuiHub MENASuiHub MENA is a premier regional blockchain innovation hub specializing in ecosystem development and offering both acceleration and youth programs. Powered by the Sui Network, SuiHub offers cutting-edge resources and expertise to enable startups and enterprises to harness the full potential of blockchain technology. With a broad reach and a deep commitment to fostering innovation, SuiHub MENA helps bridge the gap between visionary ideas and real-world impact. About SuiSui is a first-of-its-kind Layer 1 blockchain and smart contract platform designed from the ground up to make digital asset ownership fast, private, secure, and accessible to everyone. Its object-centric model, based on the Move programming language, enables parallel execution, sub-second finality, and rich on-chain assets. With horizontally scalable processing and storage, Sui supports a wide range of applications with unrivaled speed at low cost. Sui is a step-function advancement in blockchain and a platform on which creators and developers can build amazing user-friendly experiences. Learn more at Media Inquires:sui@ in to access your portfolio
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAK Digital Assets Oasis appoints Paul Dawalibi as CEO to spearhead vision of becoming the World's Leading Innovation Hub
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – The Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO), the world's first free zone dedicated to digital and virtual asset companies, today proudly announces the appointment of Paul Dawalibi as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic transition marks a pivotal moment in RAK DAO's evolution as it accelerates its mission to become the most sought-after global ecosystem for entrepreneurs and businesses of the future, building cutting-edge industries such as Web3, AI, blockchain, gaming, and beyond. Paul Dawalibi brings over two decades of experience as a technology entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and globally recognized startup evangelist. Mr. Dawalibi has built a reputation as one of the most influential voices in the MENA region's burgeoning technology and gaming ecosystems. His passion for emerging technologies aligns seamlessly with RAK DAO's commitment to shaping a vibrant, future-forward digital economy. 'We are pleased to welcome Paul Dawalibi as the new CEO of RAK DAO,' said Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK DAO. 'I would like to extend our gratitude to Dr. Sameer Al Ansari for his leadership in laying the foundation and shaping the early success of RAK DAO. With Paul's global experience in digital assets, gaming, and emerging technologies, we are confident he will continue to build on this momentum and guide RAK DAO through its next phase of growth and innovation.' Dawalibi is a prolific creator, speaker, and investor. He is the host and creator of Game Changers on CNBC Arabia, a show broadcast to over 50 million homes across the Middle East— and the author of Metaverse Dream. His expertise is frequently sought by governments, venture funds, family offices, and Fortune 500 companies looking to understand and navigate disruptive new technologies. Paul has also advised government entities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia, helping shape policies and initiatives on gaming investment, ecosystem building, and innovation. 'I am deeply honored to join RAK DAO at this moment of inflection,' said Paul Dawalibi. 'RAK is not only laying the groundwork for the future of the digital economy—it is designing the blueprint for how innovation ecosystems will thrive globally. This is a government that understands that 'fun' is not just entertainment—it is the key to transforming industries, engaging communities, and building enduring value. I'm excited to partner with our community of builders, founders, and visionaries to make RAK DAO the home of the next generation of innovation.' Since its launch, RAK DAO has attracted global attention for its visionary regulatory framework and its commitment to creating a secure, supportive, and cutting-edge jurisdiction for Web3 and digital asset businesses. With a focus on transparency, innovation, and compliance, the free zone has quickly become a destination of choice for startups, scale-ups, and business service providers alike. Under Paul's leadership, RAK DAO will double down on strategic pillars, including ecosystem development, global partnerships, gaming and metaverse acceleration, and public-private collaboration. His international presence, loyal following, and media reach spanning 66 countries will further amplify RAK DAO's global footprint. 'Paul is a global icon in the world of emerging tech, with a rare ability to bridge the worlds of entertainment, enterprise, and innovation,' said Dr. Sameer Al Ansari, outgoing CEO of RAK DAO. 'His leadership will be instrumental as RAK DAO enters its next phase of growth. I am proud of what we have achieved thus far and confident that the future is in the best possible hands.' Paul's appointment is effective immediately. His leadership will guide RAK DAO through an ambitious next chapter focused on positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a global capital for digital innovation—a safe, vibrant, and opportunity-rich environment where the future of the internet is being built today. 'At RAK DAO, we are going to create a 'density of intensity' around innovation and technology that the world has not seen outside of Silicon Valley', Paul says. 'Most free zones are just trying to sell you a desk. At RAK DAO, we are going to build the free zone of the future to support the companies of the future'. About RAK DAO: RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) is the world's first and only Free Zone with Common Law features established to support and nurture digital assets companies. In the UAE Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK DAO offers a transparent legislative framework that simplifies the process of opening and operating digital assets companies. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem and providing comprehensive services, RAK DAO drives the future of emerging sectors, propelling innovation, and unlocking the potential of digital assets.
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAK Digital Assets Oasis appoints Paul Dawalibi as CEO
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – The Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO), the world's first free zone dedicated to digital and virtual asset companies, today proudly announces the appointment of Paul Dawalibi as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic transition marks a pivotal moment in RAK DAO's evolution as it accelerates its mission to become the most sought-after global ecosystem for entrepreneurs and businesses of the future, building cutting-edge industries such as Web3, AI, blockchain, gaming, and beyond. Paul Dawalibi brings over two decades of experience as a technology entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and globally recognized startup evangelist. Mr. Dawalibi has built a reputation as one of the most influential voices in the MENA region's burgeoning technology and gaming ecosystems. His passion for emerging technologies aligns seamlessly with RAK DAO's commitment to shaping a vibrant, future-forward digital economy. 'We are pleased to welcome Paul Dawalibi as the new CEO of RAK DAO,' said Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK DAO. 'I would like to extend our gratitude to Dr. Sameer Al Ansari for his leadership in laying the foundation and shaping the early success of RAK DAO. With Paul's global experience in digital assets, gaming, and emerging technologies, we are confident he will continue to build on this momentum and guide RAK DAO through its next phase of growth and innovation.' Dawalibi is a prolific creator, speaker, and investor. He is the host and creator of Game Changers on CNBC Arabia, a show broadcast to over 50 million homes across the Middle East— and the author of Metaverse Dream. His expertise is frequently sought by governments, venture funds, family offices, and Fortune 500 companies looking to understand and navigate disruptive new technologies. Paul has also advised government entities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia, helping shape policies and initiatives on gaming investment, ecosystem building, and innovation. 'I am deeply honored to join RAK DAO at this moment of inflection,' said Paul Dawalibi. 'RAK is not only laying the groundwork for the future of the digital economy—it is designing the blueprint for how innovation ecosystems will thrive globally. This is a government that understands that 'fun' is not just entertainment—it is the key to transforming industries, engaging communities, and building enduring value. I'm excited to partner with our community of builders, founders, and visionaries to make RAK DAO the home of the next generation of innovation.' Since its launch, RAK DAO has attracted global attention for its visionary regulatory framework and its commitment to creating a secure, supportive, and cutting-edge jurisdiction for Web3 and digital asset businesses. With a focus on transparency, innovation, and compliance, the free zone has quickly become a destination of choice for startups, scale-ups, and business service providers alike. Under Paul's leadership, RAK DAO will double down on strategic pillars, including ecosystem development, global partnerships, gaming and metaverse acceleration, and public-private collaboration. His international presence, loyal following, and media reach spanning 66 countries will further amplify RAK DAO's global footprint. 'Paul is a global icon in the world of emerging tech, with a rare ability to bridge the worlds of entertainment, enterprise, and innovation,' said Dr. Sameer Al Ansari, outgoing CEO of RAK DAO. 'His leadership will be instrumental as RAK DAO enters its next phase of growth. I am proud of what we have achieved thus far and confident that the future is in the best possible hands.' Paul's appointment is effective immediately. His leadership will guide RAK DAO through an ambitious next chapter focused on positioning Ras Al Khaimah as a global capital for digital innovation—a safe, vibrant, and opportunity-rich environment where the future of the internet is being built today. 'At RAK DAO, we are going to create a 'density of intensity' around innovation and technology that the world has not seen outside of Silicon Valley', Paul says. 'Most free zones are just trying to sell you a desk. At RAK DAO, we are going to build the free zone of the future to support the companies of the future'. About RAK DAO: RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO) is the world's first and only Free Zone with Common Law features established to support and nurture digital assets companies. In the UAE Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, RAK DAO offers a transparent legislative framework that simplifies the process of opening and operating digital assets companies. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem and providing comprehensive services, RAK DAO drives the future of emerging sectors, propelling innovation, and unlocking the potential of digital assets. Media Contact: Athraa Bheekoo athraa@ Luna PR Araminta Bloom araminta@ Luna PR
