Food delivery is booming in Dubai. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle, tech-savvy customers, and growing demand for online food orders have made cloud kitchens a profitable, low-investment business model in the UAE.
If you want to start a food delivery business without opening a dine-in restaurant, this guide explains the key steps for a successful launch.
A cloud kitchen is also referred to as a ghost or virtual kitchen and is defined as a food establishment that only offers delivery service and has no seating. Orders are received through third-party food delivery platforms such as Talabat, Deliveroo, Keeta and Noon, with service through a licensed commercial kitchen.
Dubai has been found to be an ideal destination for investment and establishment of organizations for the following reasons:
• High demand for online food delivery
• Business-friendly regulations
• Advanced logistics and delivery platforms
• Strong government oversight ensures food safety.
• Cost-effective licensing options for startups
These advantages make the cloud kitchen business in Dubai ideal for first-time entrepreneurs, chefs, and restaurant brands looking to scale efficiently.
Before applying for the necessary approvals, it is essential to consider the most appropriate jurisdiction and business form for registration.
You can choose between:
• Dubai Mainland (DED) – This option is suited for those wishing to conduct business in Dubai without limitations.
• UAE Free Zones – These free zones allow full foreign ownership and low initial investment requirements.
You may make a decision between a Sole Owner Business or a Limited Liability Company. Once you decide on the correct structure that fits your business and ownership, you can apply for and reserve a business name.
To operate in accordance with UAE laws, every cloud kitchen must obtain a food business license from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or a relevant Free Zone authority.
The license should state your planned restaurant or food service activity and must be supported by health and safety approvals. You cannot operate your food business without these authorizations.
One important step is to get a Dubai Municipality food permit from the Food Control Department (FCD).
Approval includes:
• Registration on the Food Watch platform
• Kitchen layout and workflow compliance
• Food safety inspection under the Dubai Food Code
• Appointment of a Person in Charge (PIC)
This permit shows that your business meets Dubai’s strict hygiene and safety standards.
Cloud kitchen setup costs in Dubai depend on location, kitchen size, and whether you use a shared facility.
Estimated Setup Costs (AED):
• Trade License: AED 10,000 – 15,000
• Food Permit & Inspections: AED 5,000 – 8,000
• Kitchen Rent (shared, refers to the cost of sharing the kitchen) /monthly): AED 5,000 – 12,000
• Equipment & Utensils: AED 10,000 – 25,000
• Staff Visas & Insurance: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per employee
On average, starting a cloud kitchen in Dubai costs between AED 30,000 and AED 60,000. Costs can be higher if you pick a premium location or want a custom kitchen.
To make the approval process smoother, get these documents ready ahead of time:
• Passport copies of owners/shareholders
• Valid UAE visa or entry stamp
• Three proposed trade names
• Business plan
• Tenancy contract or kitchen lease agreement
Having all your documents ready in advance can help speed up the approval process.
Dubai enforces strict food safety laws in line with Federal Food Safety regulations. Important points include:
• Home kitchens are not permitted for commercial cloud kitchens.
• Only licensed kitchens passing inspection may operate.
• Staff must hold valid food handler certificates.
• Non-compliance may lead to fines or permit suspension.
Knowing these cloud kitchen regulations in Dubai can help you avoid delays and extra costs.
Indeed, it is a popular option for startups. Many free zones support cloud kitchen setup in the UAE, offering:
• Full foreign ownership by 100%
• Lower license costs
• Smooth process of registration
However, you must prepare food in a kitchen approved by the Dubai Municipality, even if your kitchen is licensed in a free zone.
1. Put together your final food concept and menu that can be delivered.
2. Apply for a business license.
3. Obtain food safety certifications.
4. Rent a conforming kitchen facility.
5. Open a corporate bank account.
6. Sign up with delivery services.
7. Launch, market, and scale.
With proper support, you should be able to complete the entire procedure in 4 to 6 weeks.
Given the growing trend of ordering food online and the effective regulations, cloud kitchens are a promising business in Dubai. The right licenses, intelligent cost control, and food safety practices are the preconditions for ensuring success.
Although it may appear to be a cumbersome process, it can easily be completed with professional intervention.
At AMCA, we specialize in end-to-end cloud kitchen setup in Dubai, including:
• Trade license & food permit approvals
• Dubai Municipality compliance
• Kitchen leasing assistance
• Bank account opening support
• Ongoing business support
AMCA can help you turn your food concept into a successful delivery brand quickly and efficiently.
1. Is a cloud kitchen profitable in Dubai?
Yes. Because of low operating costs and high demand, cloud kitchens are one of the most scalable food business models in Dubai.
2. Can I start small and scale later?
Yes. Many brands start with one concept and later grow into several virtual brands.
3. How long does approval take?
Getting the needed licenses and permits usually takes four to six weeks, depending on how complete your documents are and the inspection process.
4. Do I need a physical location?
Yes, you need a physical location, but only a licensed commercial kitchen is required.
06 Jan 2026
