What is the difference between Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore?

With a Mainland company, you have to have a local sponsor that will own 100% of the company. You will be allowed to do business anywhere in the UAE with a Mainland company. With a company in the Free Zone, you can only do business within the Free Zone.  Foreign investors can also have complete ownership. An Offshore company is not physically present in the county. They are free to do business outside of the emirates.