Cloud Kitchen in Abu Dhabi Global Market
Free ZoneFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cloud Kitchen in ADGM

Starting From

AED 11,700

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

4 Visas

Location

Abu Dhabi

About Cloud Kitchen

Establishing a Cloud Kitchen business in Abu Dhabi Global Market positions you at the heart of Abu Dhabi's dynamic commercial landscape, with access to a market of over 9 million consumers.

The licensing process at ADGM has been streamlined significantly, with most food & beverage licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 11,700, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your cloud kitchen business in Abu Dhabi Global Market. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why ADGM for Cloud Kitchen?

Abu Dhabi Global Market is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for food & beverage businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers international financial centre, which is particularly valuable for cloud kitchen operations. Additionally, common law jurisdiction ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 15,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 4 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Own courts system further enhances the appeal of ADGM for cloud kitchen professionals. Furthermore, robust regulatory framework positions your cloud kitchen business for long-term success in the region. With Abu Dhabi continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, ADGM remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established food & beverage enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

International financial centre
Common law jurisdiction
Own courts system
Robust regulatory framework
Abu Dhabi's premier business hub

Requirements & Documents

1Completed application form for trade licence
2Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
3Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality
4No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
5Signed application form from ADGM authority
6Relevant industry experience documentation
7Detailed business plan or activity description
8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Cloud Kitchen is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

ItemCost (AED)
License Fee11,700
Visa Package (per visa)5,500
Flexi Desk15,000
Shared Office30,000
Private Office70,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 32,200

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your cloud kitchen business objectives, optimal licence structure, and ADGM as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.

2

Choose Your Company Name

Select your company name and submit it for approval. ADGM has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.

3

Prepare & Submit Documents

Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For cloud kitchen, additional documents including professional qualifications and Dubai Municipality approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.

4

Obtain Trade Licence

Your ADGM trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct cloud kitchen activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 11,700.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your ADGM licence includes 4 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.

6

Open Corporate Bank Account

With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.

7

Start Operations

With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your cloud kitchen business in Abu Dhabi Global Market is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ADGM allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

Guides by Nationality

Country-specific visa, banking, and document requirements for cloud kitchen in ADGM:

Get Started Today

Ready to set up your cloud kitchen in ADGM? Our team is here to help.

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionADGM
TypeFree Zone
EmirateAbu Dhabi
License FeeAED 11,700
Setup Time5 days
Visa Quota4
Activity Code56105

Official Source

www.adgm.com

By IBA Business Setup Team

Last updated: 26 February 2026

International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.

Ready to Start Your Cloud Kitchen?

Get a personalised quote for setting up your cloud kitchen in ADGM. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.