When it comes to rich and aromatic brews, you’ve probably heard all the rave about Turkish coffee, but have you ever considered trying traditional Arabic coffee? Well, if you haven’t then you’d be missing out. Arabic coffee is favored by coffee lovers for its unique blend of spices, like cardamom and saffron, offering a lighter yet deeply flavorful taste.
Arabic coffee boasts a long history in the Middle East, serving as a symbol of hospitality and warmth. Its preparation and serving rituals reflect centuries-old traditions. Ready to brew a cup? Let’s explore the must-try Arabic coffee brands in the United Arab Emirates.
The Top 6 Arabic Coffee Brands to Try in the UAE
- Emirati Coffee Co.
- Orbis Arabic Coffee
- Bateel
- Raw Coffee Company
- Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters
- Nightjar
Emirati Coffee Co.
Emirati Coffee Co. is a premier roaster in the UAE. They’re renowned for their commitment to quality and the art of coffee making. They source the finest Arabica coffee beans and offer a range of roasts to cater to every palate, whether you’re a coffee aficionado or simply a casual drinker.
Plus, their dedication to sustainability and direct trade practices ensures the highest quality and supports coffee farmers around the globe.
Where to buy: https://www.emiraticoffee.com/
Orbis Arabic Coffee
Since its inception in 2007, Orbis Coffee has been meticulously crafting blends that take you on a journey through the Middle East with every sip. This is why they’ve been selling their coffee at Dubai Airport for more than a decade.
They do a good job of sustainably sourcing high-quality Arabica beans and blending them with a selection of spices that offer a truly authentic taste.
If you value passion and expertise when it comes to your coffee, then Orbis is the brand you want and need to try.
Where to buy: https://www.orbis.coffee/
Bateel
Bateel, a brand globally recognized for its gourmet dates and luxurious cafés, carries its excellence over to its Arabic coffee. With a heritage deeply rooted in the Middle East, Bateel offers a stellar range of Arabic coffee that’s meticulously sourced and roasted to perfection. Their coffee embodies Arabic hospitality, blending the finest beans with the unique flavors of the region.
Each sip will give you a flavor experience that’s hard to follow up on. If you do decide to get yourself a bag or jar of their product, then we’d highly recommend trying out their Qahwa Coffee. Qahwa, for those unfamiliar, is an Arabic coffee that’s as Arabic as it gets.
Where to buy: https://bateel.com/en_iq/coffee
Raw Coffee Company
RAW Coffee Company is a pioneering specialty coffee brand that’s been at the forefront of the coffee scene for 17 years. Founded by Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood, and the first in the MENA region to hold International Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Diplomas, RAW is a community hub for coffee lovers.
They operate from a 13,500 sq ft roastery café in Al Quoz and are dedicated to ethically sourcing and artfully roasting coffee beans. Every cup is consistent and sustainable. It’s also worth mentioning that their commitment has won them numerous awards.
Where to buy: https://rawcoffeecompany.com
Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters
Seven Fortunes Coffee Roasters is another standout name in the UAE’s coffee scene. They’re passionate about giving people an extraordinary coffee experience by carefully curating and combining ingredients to make exquisite blends. Upon seeing their collection, you’ll easily be able to pick up on their spirit for innovation and pushing the brewing culture boundaries.
We’d highly recommend going to one of their two shops in Dubai for live-brewed hot drinks. It’ll give you a truly immersive experience in which you’ll get to see first-hand how they go about making a delicious brew.
Where to buy: https://www.sevenfortunes.com/?v=ea8a1a99f6c9
Nightjar
As soon as you hop onto Nightjar’s site, you’ll probably think you clicked on the wrong link, simply because of how vivid and creative it is. This personality is also very much present in their coffee.
With blend names like Candyman, Gonzo, and Mad City, it’s obvious that they’re not what you’d describe as a “traditional” Arabic coffee brand. However, this doesn’t mean that you should rule them out. If you’re the adventurous type who’s always in search of something new, then this is it.
Where to buy: https://www.nightjar.coffee/
FAQs
How is traditional Arabic coffee made?
It’s made by roasting green coffee beans to a light or medium level and then grinding them into a fine powder. Water, ground coffee, and spices are then added to a pot known as a dallah and brought to a boil. The coffee is then served in small cups, allowing the grounds to settle at the bottom.
Where are the best coffee shops in the UAE?
Some of the best shops include Café Bateel, Boon Coffee Roasters, The Coffee Museum, and Voyage, the latter of which can be found in the Dubai Mall and is famed for its beautiful architecture. Also, if you happen to be in Ras Al Khaimah, we’d recommend checking out the highly-rated Breeze Bar.
Can I find authentic Arabic coffee outside of the UAE?
Yes, you’ll find Arabic coffee in many restaurants and specialized coffee shops around the world.
Why is Arabic coffee often served with dates?
The sweetness of dates complements the slightly bitter taste of the coffee. Serving dates also follows the Bedouin tradition of hospitality, offering guests a symbol of generosity.
What’s the difference between Arabic coffee and Turkish coffee?
Arabic coffee is typically brewed with lightly roasted beans and spices that give it a distinct, aromatic taste. It’s also served without sugar and has a lighter color. Turkish coffee is made with finely ground, dark roasted beans, is often sweetened, and has a thicker consister.
Final Thoughts
The UAE is a place of many wonders, so be sure to add exploring these top Arabic coffee brands to your list when you visit. They all take you on a unique journey into the heart of Middle Eastern coffee culture, from the artisanal roasting techniques at coffee shops to the careful selection of Arabica beans. Each brand presents a distinct flavor profile and brewing culture that you won’t want to miss out on.
