A cloud kitchen, also known as a ghost, dark, or virtual kitchen, is a delivery-only commercial kitchen without a dine-in area. These kitchens prepare food solely for online orders received through platforms like Talabat, Deliveroo, Careem, and Noon Food.
How is it Different Than a Traditional Kitchen?
Unlike traditional restaurants, cloud kitchens don’t need prime location storefronts, front-of-house staff, or dine-in facilities. They operate from centralized or shared spaces equipped for food prep, packaging, and delivery, significantly reducing overhead costs.
Relevance in the UAE’s Evolving Food Delivery Ecosystem:
With a booming food delivery market, tech-savvy consumers, and streamlined licensing options, the UAE is ideal for cloud kitchens. This model enables entrepreneurs to launch multiple virtual brands from one kitchen, test niche cuisines, and scale rapidly across emirates.
Benefits of Starting a Cloud Kitchen in the UAE
- Low Costs: No rent for prime locations or dine-in staff, lower setup and operational expenses.
- High Demand: Strong market for food delivery via Talabat, Deliveroo, and Careem.
- Menu Flexibility: Easily test and launch niche cuisines to cater to diverse tastes.
- Scalable Model: Run multiple brands from one kitchen and expand quickly.
- Easy Setup: Fast licensing and government support streamline operations.
- Low Risk: Ideal for testing new food concepts with minimal investment.
- Smart Operations: Leverage data and technology to boost efficiency and drive profitability.
How Does a Cloud Kitchen Work in the UAE?
A cloud kitchen in the UAE operates as a delivery-only facility, preparing meals for online orders via platforms like Talabat, Deliveroo, and Careem without any dine-in space. Below is the Key Workflow:
1. Order Placement: Customers order through delivery apps or the kitchen’s website.
2. Order Management: Orders are managed using integrated software that supports multiple virtual brands.
3. Food Preparation: Chefs work in a professional kitchen dedicated solely to delivery.
4. Packaging: Meals are packed for freshness and safe delivery.
5. Delivery: Couriers (third-party or in-house) deliver food directly to customers.
Types of Cloud Kitchen Licenses in the UAE
To operate a cloud kitchen legally in the UAE, you must obtain several key licenses and permits. The main types include:
Trade License
- Issued by: DED (Mainland) or relevant Free Zone Authority
- Essential for: Legally establishing your business
- Purpose: Authorizes commercial activity like “Food Preparation” or “Cloud Kitchen Operations” and defines business jurisdiction (mainland or free zone)
Food License
- Issued by: Dubai Municipality or local food authority
- Essential for: Preparing, storing, and handling food
- Purpose: Ensures compliance with hygiene, layout standards, and food safety regulations
Foodstuff Supply License
- Issued by: DED or relevant Free Zone Authority
- Essential for: Importing, storing, or supplying food in bulk
- Purpose: Required if supplying ingredients or operating multiple food brands
Delivery Service Permit
- Issued by: RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) or local authority
- Essential for: Managing your own delivery fleet
- Purpose: Ensures vehicles and drivers meet delivery safety and registration standards
Central Production Unit License (Optional)
- Issued by: Municipality or free zone authority
- Essential for: Large-scale food production for multiple outlets or brands
- Purpose: Authorizes centralized food prep for distribution to various branches or kitchens
Halal Certification (If Applicable)
- Issued by: UAE Halal Certification Authority
- Essential for: Serving halal food
- Purpose: Confirms compliance with Islamic dietary laws
Additional Permits & Approvals
- NOC from property owner or municipality: Required for facility use
- Signage Permit: For displaying kitchen or brand signage
- Third-Party Aggregator Registration: Needed to partner with platforms like Talabat, Deliveroo, Careem
Ready to get licensed? Contact us for consultation and receive complete licensing assistance from start to finish.
How to Start Your Cloud Kitchen in the UAE?
Step 1: Research the Market & Define Your Concept
Study local food delivery trends, customer preferences, and competitors to identify a profitable niche that aligns with your business goals. Choose your cuisine and brand identity based on demand.
Step 2: Choose a Business Structure & Get Licensed
Decide between mainland or free zone setup (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.). Apply for a Trade License with the relevant authority (DED or free zone) under “Cloud Kitchen” or “Food Preparation.”
Step 3: Obtain Food Safety & Operational Approvals
Secure a Food License from Dubai Municipality or the local authority. Submit kitchen layout, pass hygiene checks, and ensure staff complete food safety training.
Step 4: Set Up Your Kitchen & Equipment
Choose between shared or private kitchen space. Install commercial equipment, hygiene stations, and a POS system integrated with delivery platforms like Talabat and Deliveroo.
Step 5: Get Additional Permits (If Needed)
Apply for a Foodstuff Supply License, Delivery Service Permit, Halal Certification, and any required fire, signage, or NOC approvals, depending on your operations.
Step 6: Launch Operations & Start Marketing
Hire trained staff, finalize your menu and pricing, register on delivery platforms, and invest in digital marketing to build your brand and drive orders.
Key Documents Required
- Emirates ID and passport copies (owners/shareholders)
- Trade name reservation and initial approval
- Tenancy contract or Ejari certificate (for mainland)
- Kitchen layout plan and health clearance
- Food safety training certificates
- NOC from the property owner (if applicable)
Estimated Costs
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trade License | 10,000 – 20,000 | Depends on mainland vs. free zone and license type |
| Kitchen Setup | 50,000 – 100,000 | Includes equipment, layout, hygiene, POS system |
| Monthly Rent | 3,000 – 10,000 (monthly) | Varies by location and shared vs. private kitchen |
| Staff Salaries | 5,000 – 15,000 (monthly) | For chefs, assistants, and hygiene supervisors |
| Website/App & Marketing | 5,000 – 25,000 | Branding, digital marketing, platform integration |
| Aggregator Commissions | 15% – 30% per order | Charged by delivery apps like Talabat, Deliveroo |
Conclusion
Starting a cloud kitchen in the UAE offers incredible opportunities with low startup costs, high demand, and government support.
From obtaining licenses to setting up operations, this manual provides everything needed for success. The booming food delivery market and flexible business model make 2025 the perfect time to launch your virtual restaurant concept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cloud Kitchen Profitable in The UAE?
Yes, cloud kitchens are profitable in the UAE due to low overhead costs and high food delivery demand.
Is Cloud Kitchen B2B or B2C?
Cloud kitchens are primarily B2C, serving individual customers directly through food delivery apps and websites.
Is Talabat a UAE Company?
No, Talabat is based in Kuwait. It operates in seven countries across the Middle East, including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan. While Talabat serves customers in the UAE, its headquarters remain in Kuwait, where it started as a food delivery pioneer in the GCC region.
