Cloud Kitchen in Dubai Mainland
MainlandFood & BeverageRegulated Activity

Cloud Kitchen in Dubai DED

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

3 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Cloud Kitchen

The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Dubai Mainland stands out as a premier destination for Cloud Kitchen businesses.

As a mainland entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Cloud Kitchen business will benefit from trade anywhere in the uae and government contracts eligibility. The Dubai DED licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your cloud kitchen setup in Dubai DED. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why Dubai DED for Cloud Kitchen?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai Mainland continues to attract cloud kitchen entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers trade anywhere in the uae, which is particularly valuable for cloud kitchen operations. Additionally, government contracts eligibility ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. Operating on the mainland allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market without restrictions, and you can bid on government contracts — a significant advantage over free zone entities. Office solutions start from AED 8,000 per year for a co-working, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. No geographic restrictions further enhances the appeal of Dubai DED for cloud kitchen professionals. Furthermore, wider business scope positions your cloud kitchen business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, Dubai DED remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established food & beverage enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

Trade anywhere in the UAE
Government contracts eligibility
No geographic restrictions
Wider business scope
Direct customer access

Requirements & Documents

1Passport-sized photographs with white background
2Professional qualification certificates or approvals from Dubai Municipality
3Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)
4Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
5Office tenancy contract (Ejari) for the registered business address
6No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable
7Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)
8Initial approval from the Department of Economic Development

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 Fee12,000
Visa Package (per visa)4,500
Ejari Office15,000
Co-Working8,000
Private Office30,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)From AED 31,500

* 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 Dubai DED 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. The DED naming guidelines require the name to reflect the legal structure and activity. Reserved and restricted words require additional approvals. 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

Following DED approval, your Dubai mainland trade licence is issued within 3 business days. The licence authorises you to conduct cloud kitchen activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 12,000.

5

Apply for Residence Visa

Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. The number of visas depends on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 4,500. 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 Dubai Mainland is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.

Total estimated time: 3 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

The typical processing time for a cloud kitchen licence at Dubai DED is 3 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

Guides by Nationality

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

Get Started Today

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

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Quick Facts

JurisdictionDubai DED
Typemainland
EmirateDubai
License FeeAED 12,000
Setup Time3 days
Visa Quota0
Activity Code56105

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 Dubai DED. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.