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How to Setup Gemini CLI + Docker MCP Toolkit for powerful AI-assisted Development


This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Ajeet Singh Raina

In this guide, you will learn how to set up Gemini CLI with Docker MCP Toolkit for powerful AI-assisted development. I have tried including step-by-step instructions, benefits, and real-world examples. Let’s jump in.

In the rapidly evolving world of AI-assisted development, finding the right combination of tools can make or break your productivity. After extensive testing, I’ve discovered the optimal setup that eliminates complexity while maximizing power: Gemini CLI paired with Docker MCP Toolkit.

This combination delivers enterprise-grade AI assistance without the overhead of IDEs or complex configurations. Here’s why this matters and how to set it up perfectly.

What is Gemini CLI and Why Should You Care?

Gemini CLI is Google’s open-source AI agent that brings Gemini 2.5 Pro directly to your terminal. Unlike web-based AI tools, Gemini CLI provides:

  • Direct terminal integration with your development workflow
  • 1 million token context window for analyzing large codebases
  • Built-in tool support through Model Context Protocol (MCP)
  • Free tier access with generous usage limits
  • Real-time code execution and file manipulation

Docker MCP Toolkit

The Docker MCP Toolkit revolutionizes how AI agents interact with development tools. Instead of manually configuring individual MCP servers, you get:

  • 100+ pre-configured MCP servers in the catalog
  • One-click installation of development tools
  • Secure, containerized execution environment
  • Gateway architecture that simplifies client connections
  • Built-in OAuth and credential management

Why This Terminal-Based Approach Works So Well

The Gemini CLI + Docker MCP Toolkit combination offers unique advantages that make it ideal for modern development workflows:
Performance Benefits

  • Lightning-fast startup with minimal resource usage
  • Direct system access without middleware limitations
  • Efficient memory footprint for long development sessions

Flexibility Advantages

  • Works in any terminal (Terminal.app, iTerm2, Windows Terminal, Linux shells)
  • No dependency conflicts or compatibility issues
  • Portable across development environments
  • Independent of external tool updates

Workflow Efficiency

  • Single interface for all AI interactions
  • Seamless context switching between projects
  • Direct command execution in your working directory
  • Natural integration with existing terminal workflows

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Prerequisite

  • Install Docker Desktop
  • Enable Docker MCP Toolkit

dockerdesktop

  • Enable at-least 1 MCP Server ( Docker, GitHub, Firecrawl, Kubernetes, Slack)

mcpservers

Step 1: Prerequisites

System Requirements:

  • Node.js version 18 or higher installed GitHub
  • gemini/gemini-cli: An open-source AI agent that brings the power of Gemini directly into your terminal.
  • Docker Desktop installed
  • Google account

Step 2. Install Gemini CLI

Install via npm:

npm install -g @google/gemini-cli

Step 3. Launch and authenticate: 

gemini

geminicli

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This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Ajeet Singh Raina