What types of companies are there?

“Offshore” means that you are incorporated in an offshore jurisdiction in the UAE, but you do not have to come to the country and operate and rent an office there;
 “There are more than 40 free zones in the UAE and you will need to choose the right one for your specific business.
 “Economic companies”, also known as local companies, mainland companies and insured companies, are registered in the UAE mainland (not a free zone) and are licensed and regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Currently the DED allows 100% foreign ownership in some sectors, but some sectors require a local or 100% local-owned company as a sponsor (Sponsor) with a minimum of 51% local ownership. Specific business areas do not involve local ownership, but do require a local guarantor.