Gitlab Mcp Server

What is Gitlab MCP Server?

Gitlab MCP Server connects your AI assistant to GitLab, enabling it to review merge requests, triage pipelines, manage issues, and draft releases in plain language. It provides 1000+ GitLab tools over the full REST + GraphQL API and works with Claude, Cursor, VS Code, and any MCP client. It runs as a single static binary or a container on Windows, Linux, and macOS.

How to use Gitlab MCP Server?

Choose an installation method: one-click buttons (VS Code, Cursor, etc.), claude mcp add command, the built-in setup wizard (gitlab-mcp-server --setup), or manual JSON configuration. Provide a GitLab Personal Access Token with the api scope. For self-managed GitLab, set the GITLAB_URL environment variable. Then simply ask your AI assistant to perform GitLab tasks.

Key features of Gitlab MCP Server

• Plain-language GitLab – the AI translates natural requests into API calls.
• 1000+ tools covering the full GitLab platform (REST + GraphQL).
• Low-token default dynamic surface (exposes 2 tools, reaches the full catalog).
• Proven with real models – 99.5% aggregate success across thousands of operations.
• Safe by design – read-only mode, safe mode (dry-run preview), and TLS options.
• Runs anywhere – one static binary or container; amd64 & arm64; stdio and HTTP.

Use cases of Gitlab MCP Server

• Review a merge request for safety and merge readiness.
• Triage a failed pipeline and identify the cause.
• List open issues assigned to a user.
• Generate release notes from version to version.
• List GitLab projects managed by the user.

FAQ from Gitlab MCP Server

What token is required to use Gitlab MCP Server?

A GitLab Personal Access Token with the api scope is needed. The token is passed via the GITLAB_TOKEN environment variable.

How do I connect to a self-managed GitLab instance?

Set the GITLAB_URL environment variable to your instance URL. For self-signed certificates, also set GITLAB_SKIP_TLS_VERIFY=true.

What is the default tool surface and why?

The default dynamic surface exposes only 2 tools (gitlab_find_action and gitlab_execute_action) while still reaching the full catalog. This keeps token consumption low and fits any client’s context window.

Can I run Gitlab MCP Server in read-only mode?

Yes, read-only mode is a built-in safety feature. It prevents mutations, allowing safe exploration of GitLab data.

Does Gitlab MCP Server support HTTP/remote deployments?

Yes, there is an HTTP server mode for shared, long-running deployments, documented in the HTTP Server Mode guide.