Steeped in history and sprinkled with modernity, offering everything from gahwa traditions to matcha lattes and photogenic brews, Dubai’s coffee scene is brewing with innovation, and this year, there’s more reason than ever to raise your cup
Every year on October 1st, coffee lovers around the world unite in honour of one of life’s most beloved beverages. International Coffee Day is the perfect excuse to sip your favourite flat white while also celebrating the people behind every bean, including the growers, roasters, baristas, and café visionaries. Established officially in 2015 by the International Coffee Organization and launched at Expo Milan, this global occasion shines a spotlight on fair trade, sustainability, and the culture that surrounds our daily brew.
While coffee is part of everyday life for many, International Coffee Day invites us to take a moment to appreciate it more deeply, paying homage to the craft, the community, and the culture. It also reminds us of the importance of ethical sourcing and fair compensation for farmers. In cities around the world, cafés mark the day with complimentary drinks, special menus, and events, and Dubai is no exception.
Dubai’s Brewing Coffee Culture
Dubai has cultivated a unique coffee scene, one where centuries-old Arabic traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge café trends. At the heart of Emirati hospitality is gahwa, the spiced Arabic coffee made with cardamom and served in a dallah pot. It’s a heartwarming symbol of welcome, often shared in family homes or majlis gatherings.
Dubai’s modern coffee scene is just as dynamic. With a melting pot of cultures and a city that never stops innovating, speciality coffee here has quickly become a lifestyle. Cafés are turning into creative labs where quality beans meet experimental blends, like saffron-infused cortados and slow-drip single origins.
Matcha, Mushroom Lattes & More
Gone are the days when a cappuccino was as adventurous as it got. In Dubai, coffee menus now read like curated tasting journeys. There are now ceremonial-grade matcha lattes alongside eye-catching blue spirulina-infused cold brews, and the city is buzzing with creativity. Matcha, in particular, is having a moment, loved not only for its earthy flavour and health benefits but also for its vibrant green aesthetic.
This growth in café culture now seems to be more about experience, design, and social connection, alongside the innovative drinks. Instagrammable interiors, curated playlists, and artistic presentations are becoming just as important as the flavour. When you’re grabbing a coffee in Dubai, everyone has a seat at the table, and likely a velvet one with a view.
Where to Enjoy a Coffee in Dubai This International Coffee Day
Dubai’s got a coffee spot for every mood. Here are a few standout destinations to explore for the best coffee in Dubai this International Coffee Day:
Godiva Café, Rixos Premium Dubai
Where Belgian chocolate meets coastal elegance, Godiva Café pairs its world-renowned sweets with fine coffee in a setting that boasts breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Expect rich flavours, signature hot chocolates, and a coffee menu that’s pure indulgence.
EL&N London
Dubbed the world’s most Instagrammable café, EL&N’s Dubai locations are a riot of pink florals, neon signs, and coffee with character. With a range of choices and flavours, opt for their famous Spanish Latte or a pastel-hued matcha, as every sip is camera-ready, and delicious.
The Lounge, Address Beach Resort
For those who prefer their coffee with a side of serenity, The Lounge offers a refined setting with 24/7 charm. Try the Maple Hazelnut Almond Latte for something uniquely comforting, becoming the ideal companion for a quiet morning or an afternoon meeting.
The Gallery, The H Dubai
A hidden gem of sophistication, The Gallery offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Its curated menu features premium coffees and teas, light bites, and a design-led interior that invites you to slow down and savour.
Il Motto, JA Ocean View Hotel
Channelling the spirit of a true Italian deli, Il Motto is where artisan coffee meets authentic paninis and morning pastries. Stop in for an espresso shot or a long lunch; this JBR favourite is a haven for lovers of Italian comfort and caffeine.
Let’s Raise Our Cups
This International Coffee Day, we invite you to celebrate more than just your daily cup. Celebrate the growers, the baristas, the innovators, and yes, even the caffeine-fuelled creatives behind your favourite campaigns. Black, sweetened, iced, or spiced, coffee connects us, fuels us, and tells a story in every sip.
So go ahead: wake up and smell the beans. Because in Dubai, coffee truly is a way of life.
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