Client Profile
Client Name: Alberto
Nationality: Italian
Business Activity: Cloud Kitchen
Jurisdiction: Mainland Dubai
Visa Requirement: 4 visas
Objective
Alberto, an Italian entrepreneur, wanted to launch a cloud kitchen business in Dubai to cater to the city’s fast-growing food delivery market. His primary objective was to obtain a Mainland License Dubai, allowing him the flexibility to operate anywhere in the UAE, partner with delivery platforms, and scale his operations without restrictions. He also required professional guidance to manage legal formalities, licensing, and visa allocations efficiently.
Challenges Faced by the Client
As a foreign investor, Alberto encountered several challenges during the planning stage:
- Limited understanding of Dubai’s mainland business setup regulations
- Uncertainty around selecting the correct business activity for a cloud kitchen
- Clarification on food safety approvals and municipality requirements
- Visa planning for operational staff
- Ensuring compliance with UAE commercial and immigration laws
Given the complexity of the process, Alberto decided to work with Dar Aluloom International Business Consultancy to ensure a smooth and compliant business setup.
Solution Provided
The consultancy team began with a detailed assessment of Alberto’s business goals and operational needs. As one of the experienced management consulting firms dubai, the firm provided end-to-end advisory and execution support tailored to the cloud kitchen model.
1. Business Structure & Licensing
The team recommended a mainland setup to give Alberto unrestricted access to the local market. A suitable Mainland License Dubai was selected under the appropriate food and beverage activity, ensuring alignment with Dubai Economic Department (DED) regulations.
2. Regulatory Approvals
Cloud kitchens require multiple approvals beyond trade licensing. The consultancy guided Alberto through:
- Initial trade name reservation
- Food-related activity approvals
- Coordination with Dubai Municipality for food safety compliance
- Assistance with kitchen location suitability
All approvals were obtained in the correct sequence to avoid delays.
3. Visa Allocation & Immigration Support
Alberto required four visas for himself and his operational team. The consultancy handled:
- Establishment card issuance
- Visa quota allocation
- Entry permits, medical tests, and Emirates ID processing
This ensured that staffing requirements were met in line with the business launch timeline.
4. Documentation & Compliance
From drafting legal documents to ensuring accurate submission of applications, the consultancy managed all paperwork. This reduced the risk of rejections and ensured full compliance with UAE laws.
Implementation Process
The project was executed in a phased and structured manner:
- Initial consultation and business feasibility review
- Trade name approval and activity finalisation
- Mainland license issuance
- Municipality and food safety approvals
- Visa processing for four individuals
Clear communication and regular updates helped Alberto stay informed at every stage of the setup.
Results Achieved
- Successful issuance of a mainland trade license for the cloud kitchen
- Timely completion of regulatory and food safety approvals
- Allocation and processing of four visas without delays
- Business launched within the expected timeframe
- Full compliance with UAE commercial and immigration regulations
The structured approach ensured that Alberto could focus on branding, menu development, and partnerships while the setup process was handled professionally.
Client Outcome
With the support of Dar Aluloom International Business Consultancy, Alberto successfully established his cloud kitchen in Dubai’s mainland. The business is now well-positioned to scale operations, partner with major food delivery platforms, and expand into multiple locations in the future.
This case highlights how professional guidance from experienced management consulting firms in Dubai can simplify complex business setup processes and help foreign entrepreneurs enter the UAE market with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why choose a Mainland License Dubai for a cloud kitchen?
A mainland license allows businesses to operate anywhere in Dubai and the UAE without restrictions. It also enables direct partnerships with delivery platforms and corporate clients.
2. How long does it take to set up a mainland cloud kitchen in Dubai?
The timeline varies based on approvals and documentation, but with professional guidance, the process can typically be completed within a few weeks.
3. Are food safety approvals mandatory for cloud kitchens?
Yes. Cloud kitchens must comply with Dubai Municipality food safety regulations, including kitchen layout, hygiene standards, and operational guidelines.
4. How many visas can be obtained with a mainland license?
Visa eligibility depends on office or kitchen space and business activity. In this case, four visas were successfully allocated for the cloud kitchen setup.
5. Do foreign nationals need a local sponsor for a mainland business?
Recent regulations allow 100% foreign ownership for many activities, including cloud kitchens, subject to compliance with local laws and approvals.
