What are the main advantages of setting up a mainland company versus a free zone company?

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai offers several advantages, including the ability to trade directly with the UAE market and not being restricted to a specific area. For instance, in my experience, mainland businesses can engage in government contracts which free zone companies cannot. However, free zones provide more straightforward setup processes and various incentives. Weighing these factors is crucial when deciding where to establish your business in Dubai.