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Aug 28, 2025
4:52 AM
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Food delivery has become a big part of everyday life in Dubai. People prefer to order food online because it saves time and offers many options. This growing trend has given birth to a new business model called cloud kitchen. Unlike traditional restaurants, cloud kitchens do not require a large dining space or fancy décor. Instead, they focus solely on preparing food for delivery.
If you are planning to enter the food business, cloud kitchen is one of the most profitable options in Dubai today. In this blog, we will guide you on how to start a cloud kitchen, the licenses you need, and the cost details.
What is a cloud kitchen?
A cloud kitchen is a food business that operates exclusively for online orders. Customers cannot walk in and eat at the venue. Instead, the kitchen prepares and delivers food through food delivery apps like Zomato, Talabat, or Deliveroo. This model helps business owners cut down on rent, staff, and other high costs that typically come with running a restaurant.
Why start a cloud kitchen in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the fastest-growing food markets in the region. People enjoy trying new dishes, and they often order food online. With lower setup costs compared to restaurants and a demand for food delivery, cloud kitchens offer many opportunities for profit.
Other reasons to start a cloud kitchen in Dubai include:
Low rental and operating costs
Flexibility to run multiple food brands from a single kitchen
Access to the growing online food delivery market
Easy to scale and expand
Licenses you need to start a cloud kitchen
To run a food business in Dubai, you must have the appropriate licenses. Without them, you cannot operate legally. The two main approvals you need are:
Trade License - You must apply for a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Free Zone Authority. This license allows you to operate a business in Dubai.
Food License - You must also apply for a food license from the Department of Food Safety. This approval ensures that your kitchen complies with hygiene and safety standards.
Additionally, you may need other approvals depending on the size, location, and business activities of your kitchen.
Steps to Start Your Cloud Kitchen
Starting a cloud kitchen may seem easy, but you should follow each step carefully. Here is a clear guideline:
Choose a location - Choose a central location where deliveries are quick and easy. You don’t need a prime dining location, but the area should be well-connected to the delivery zone.
Get a license - Apply for your trade license and food license. Make sure all the approvals are in place before you start operations.
Design the kitchen - Arrange your space for cooking, storage, and packing. You need proper ventilation, sanitation system, and enough space for delivery riders to collect orders.
Partner with delivery apps - List your food brands on online platforms like Talabat or Deliveroo to reach more customers.
Hire staff - Hire skilled chefs, helpers, and packers. Good food quality and fast service are the keys to success.
Market your brand - Use social media, discounts, and food delivery platforms to promote your business.
At this point, you will also see why many entrepreneurs choose to set up a cloud kitchen in Dubai with professional guidance. Business consultants simplify the licensing process, help you choose the right location, and save you time and money.
Cost of Starting a Cloud Kitchen in Dubai
The cost of starting a cloud kitchen is lower than opening a restaurant, but it still depends on many factors. These include:
License fees - The cost of obtaining a trade license and food license can range between AED 10,000 and AED 20,000, depending on the authorities.
Kitchen space rental - The cost of renting a small commercial kitchen can range from AED 30,000 to AED 60,000 per year. The rent can vary depending on the area and size.
Equipment costs - You need a stove, oven, freezer, storage racks, and packing machines. These can cost around AED 50,000 to AED 100,000.
Staff salaries - Hiring chefs, helpers, and delivery coordinators adds to the cost. Salary can range from AED 3,000 to AED 6,000 per month.
Marketing and Branding - Setting up your brand on apps, social media ads, and packaging design can cost AED 10,000 or more.
In total, you may need AED 100,000 to AED 200,000 to start a cloud kitchen in Dubai. The actual cost depends on your scale and the type of food business.
Tips for Running a Profitable Cloud Kitchen
To make your cloud kitchen successful, you must plan carefully and focus on the needs of the customer. Here are some simple tips:
Focus on quality - Customers will only reorder if the food tastes good and is consistent.
Keep delivery fast - Partner with reliable delivery apps and ensure that your kitchen prepares food quickly.
Offer a variety of cuisines - Run multiple brands from a single kitchen to attract more customers.
Leverage technology - Track orders, manage inventory, and monitor reviews with digital tools.
Control costs - Always keep an eye on rent, staff, and supplies to protect your profit margins.
Conclusion
Dubai is a great place to start a cloud kitchen as the food delivery market is growing every year. With the right license, good space, and proper planning, you can run a profitable food business without the high costs of a restaurant.
By keeping costs under control, offering delicious food, and promoting your brand smartly, you can grow your cloud kitchen into a successful venture. If you plan carefully and follow the rules, your dream of running a food business in Dubai can become a reality.
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