Cloud Kitchen in Abu Dhabi Global Market for Iranian nationals
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

The UAE continues to attract Iranian entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and ADGM is one of the most popular jurisdictions for cloud kitchen operations. Historic trading community (~100,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Abu Dhabi Global Market gives your Cloud Kitchen business access to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from Dubai Municipality before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up cloud kitchen businesses in Abu Dhabi Global Market since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why ADGM for Cloud Kitchen?

Choosing ADGM for your cloud kitchen business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

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.

For Iranian nationals specifically, the Abu Dhabi government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Iranian business community.

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

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your cloud kitchen licence is issued by ADGM, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Iranian Business Owners

Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. For your cloud kitchen business in ADGM, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Iranian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Iran-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for cloud kitchen), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to ADGM.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi
4Relevant industry experience documentation
5Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
6Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)
7Completed application form for trade licence
8No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable

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

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your cloud kitchen business plan and the best ADGM licence options for Iranian nationals.

2

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

3

Licence Application

Submit the cloud kitchen licence application to ADGM. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

4

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official ADGM trade licence within 5–8 business days.

5

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

6

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

7

Start Operations

Your cloud kitchen business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

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 for all nationalities, including Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

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.

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