Dubai’s coffee scene blends Arabic hospitality with Italian precision, offering a range of experiences for coffee lovers. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): Lightly roasted, spiced with cardamom, often served with dates. Emphasizes rituals and connection.
- Italian Coffee (Espresso): Bold, intense, and quick. Includes drinks like cappuccinos and lattes, focusing on speed and flavor.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Arabic Coffee | Italian Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Light, aromatic, spiced | Bold, rich, creamy |
| Brewing Method | Slow, in a dallah pot | Fast, high-pressure |
| Serving Style | Small, handleless cups (finjān) | Small cups with handles |
| Social Context | Hospitality and rituals | Casual, quick breaks |
Whether you prefer the ceremonial warmth of Arabic coffee or the bold punch of Italian espresso, Dubai’s cafes offer the best of both worlds. Start your journey at Arabian Tea House for qahwa or Kimbo Caffe for authentic espresso.
Arabic Coffee vs Turkish Coffee: Whats the Difference?
Arabic Coffee Basics
Arabic coffee, or qahwa, is a central part of Middle Eastern hospitality and culture. In 2015, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar succeeded in having Arabic coffee added to UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity [9].
This deeply rooted tradition enriches Dubai’s thriving coffee culture, adding layers of history to the modern cafe scene.
History and Social Role
Arabic coffee is more than a drink; it’s a social glue and even a tool for diplomacy, often playing a role in resolving marriages, contracts, and disputes [8]. The preparation and serving of coffee carry significant cultural meaning.
“Arabic coffee has its own etiquette and rituals and has contributed to resolving many family problems. It is considered a symbol of hospitality and generosity.” – Saif Al Dahmani, heritage researcher and Arabic coffee expert [9]
In the UAE, serving coffee at gatherings is a must. Skipping it is seen as disrespectful [9]. A local saying captures this sentiment well: “You can give your guests a 5-star dinner, but if they leave your home without the offering of a coffee, they will walk away saying ‘we didn’t even get a cup of coffee'” [6].
Taste and Key Ingredients
Arabic coffee stands out for its unique flavor, which comes from a mix of high-quality ingredients and spices:
- Coffee Beans: Lightly roasted Yemeni Arabica beans [4]
- Primary Spice: Green cardamom [5]
- Optional Additions: Saffron, cloves, and cinnamon [4][3]
- Aromatic Notes: Rose water or orange blossom water [1]
The flavor and roast vary across the Middle East. Gulf countries prefer lighter roasts with a golden hue, while darker roasts are common in the Levant [9]. In the UAE and Oman, a medium roast gives the beans a reddish tint [9].
Making and Serving Methods
The preparation of Arabic coffee follows a specific ritual and uses traditional tools like the dallah (a special coffee pot) and finjan (small, handleless cups) [7]. Here’s how it’s typically done:
- Preparation: Beans are ground slightly coarser than espresso and mixed with cardamom [5].
- Serving Protocol: The server pours coffee using the right hand to hold the cup and the left to handle the dallah. Cups are filled only a third of the way, with refills being a common gesture [6].
- Guest Etiquette: Guests drink using their right hand and traditionally have at least three cups. To signal they’re done, they gently swirl their cup [7].
Arabic coffee is often paired with dates or sweets to balance its bitterness [1][2]. This pairing creates what Maria Eduarda Pavani of Tres Marias Coffee in Dubai describes as “almost a language” of hospitality and connection [10].
These traditions offer a rich backdrop for comparing Arabic coffee with its Italian counterpart.
Italian Coffee Essentials
Italian coffee culture revolves around espresso, the foundation of many popular drinks. Unlike the slower, ceremonial traditions of Arabic coffee, Italian coffee is all about quick, intense experiences.
Background and Impact
Espresso is so deeply rooted in Italian life that it’s often just called “caffè normale” [12]. In fact, after water, espresso is the most consumed beverage in Italy [14].
“Most Italians consider espresso as ‘real’ coffee because they are more used to the intense, full-bodied, strong, and often bitter taste.” – Chiara Bergonzi, Founder of Lot Zero [14]
Each shot of espresso packs 60–80 mg of caffeine, making it perfect for a quick, standing coffee break.
Common Italian Drinks
Italian coffee offers a variety of drinks, each with its own preparation style and time of day for enjoying:
| Drink | Description | Traditional Serving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso (Caffè) | A pure, concentrated coffee shot | Any time |
| Cappuccino | Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam | Before 11 AM |
| Macchiato | Espresso with a small splash of milk | Any time |
| Caffè Latte | One part espresso, two parts milk | Morning only |
| Caffè Ristretto | A more concentrated espresso made with less water | Any time |
| Marocchino | Espresso topped with foam and cocoa powder | Afternoon |
It’s worth noting that cappuccino is strictly a morning drink in Italy – milk-based coffees are generally avoided later in the day [11].
Equipment and Methods
Making authentic Italian coffee requires precision and the right tools. A professional espresso machine with 9–12 bars of pressure, a quality burr grinder, and a tamper are essential for perfect espresso. At home, a Moka pot is a great alternative, using steam pressure to brew a strong, concentrated coffee [13].
Espresso should be brewed at 190–200°F (88–93°C) with a 25–30 second extraction time. Freshly roasted beans (within two weeks) are key to achieving the rich, bold flavors Italian coffee is known for. This attention to detail defines Italy’s approach to coffee./banner/inline/?id=sbb-itb-0358258
Arabic vs Italian Coffee
Arabic and Italian coffee traditions offer unique experiences, from preparation to serving and the social rituals surrounding them.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Arabic Coffee | Italian Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Light and aromatic, often spiced with cardamom, saffron, or cloves | Bold and intense, often topped with a smooth crema |
| Brewing Method | Slowly brewed in a traditional dallah with spices | Fast, high-pressure espresso extraction |
| Serving Style | Served in small, handleless cups (finjān), often paired with dates | Served in small cups with handles, available in various styles |
| Milk Addition | Rarely used | Milk-based options like cappuccino and latte are popular |
| Social Context | Symbol of hospitality, enjoyed during formal gatherings | A quick, casual break often enjoyed at cafés |
This table highlights the core contrasts, showcasing how each reflects the values of its culture.
Medina Ilyas of Medina Coffee UAE shares:
“Arabic coffee, known as Qahwa or Gahwa, is a cherished tradition reflecting Arabian hospitality and warmth.”
Arabic coffee emphasizes ritual and community, while Italian coffee focuses on speed and precision. Espresso, the hallmark of Italian coffee, is prized for its bold flavor and efficiency. As the Lavazza Team puts it:
“Italian coffee culture is world-renowned for its rich history, distinctive flavors, and diverse array of beverages.”
Italian coffee often combines the sweetness of Arabica beans with the strength of Robusta, while Arabic coffee stands out for its spiced aroma, especially from cardamom. Despite their differences, both traditions highlight coffee’s role in bringing people together and celebrating culture.
Where to Drink in Dubai
Dubai’s coffee culture caters to both Arabic and Italian coffee enthusiasts with venues that celebrate tradition and craftsmanship.
Arabic Coffee Cafes
For a taste of traditional Arabic coffee, these spots stand out:
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe has been a key player in Emirati coffee culture since 2011. With locations across Dubai, including Dubai Festival City, Al Seef, and Al Barsha, the cafe is known for its consistent quality and dedication to heritage. The Al Seef branch, located along Dubai Creek, offers a particularly scenic and atmospheric experience.
“At Al Fanar, we’re committed to preserving the culinary traditions of the Emirates. Our chefs use age-old recipes and the freshest local ingredients to create dishes that tell a story of heritage and flavor. We believe every meal should be a celebration of culture and community.” [15]
Arabian Tea House, located in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has been a staple since 1997. With its traditional architecture and serene courtyard, it provides an immersive experience that feels like stepping back in time.
“A journey into Dubai’s past could well begin through the door of a quaint tea house in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood… As you step into the Arabian Tea House… you are transported into the old times… enjoying your cup of gahwa (traditional Arabic coffee) in the shade of an old tree…” [16]
While Arabic coffee venues emphasize tradition and ambiance, Italian cafes in Dubai bring their own distinct approach to the art of coffee.
Italian Coffee Cafes
For Italian espresso lovers, Dubai offers several excellent options:
Kimbo Caffe in DIFC brings the rich coffee heritage of Naples to the city. Known for its dedication to Neapolitan traditions, this cafe is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Italian coffee paired with classic Italian dishes [18].
The Espresso Lab, located in Dubai Mall, is renowned for its focus on precision and technique. Baristas here specialize in crafting flawless Italian-style coffee, paying close attention to every detail, from bean selection to extraction timing [17].
Leopold’s of London combines the charm of a European cafe with a comprehensive Italian coffee menu. Their blend of traditional coffee-making methods and modern presentation appeals to both purists and those looking for something contemporary [17].
Each venue offers a unique experience, whether it’s the ceremonial warmth of Arabic coffee or the meticulous craftsmanship of Italian espresso, showcasing Dubai’s diverse and thriving coffee culture.
Mixed-Style Coffee Shops
Dubai’s coffee culture has taken an exciting turn by blending elements of Arabic and Italian coffee traditions. This fusion mirrors the city’s multicultural vibe and its ability to bring diverse flavors together.
Modern Coffee Blends
One Life Kitchen & Café, located in the Dubai Design District since 2016, is a great example of this trend. It merges Arabic coffee traditions with Italian espresso techniques, creating a fresh take on local coffee culture [19].
Mixed-Style Drinks
Fusion drinks are where this blend truly shines. Take the Saffron Latte, for instance. It combines saffron-infused milk – heated until silky and foamy – with a double shot of espresso for a drink that’s both rich and aromatic [20]. Another popular option is the cardamom latte, which mixes the warm, aromatic spices of Arabic coffee with the boldness of Italian espresso.
These creative drinks highlight how Dubai’s coffee scene is evolving, offering a unique mix of traditions with a modern twist.
Conclusion
Main Points
Dubai brings together the warmth of Arabic hospitality and the boldness of Italian espresso culture. Arabic coffee emphasizes tradition and connection, while Italian coffee is all about quick preparation and strong flavors. As we’ve explored, these two distinct styles meet in Dubai, creating a vibrant coffee scene.
To recap: Arabic coffee is brewed slowly with spices and represents hospitality, while Italian coffee is prepared quickly, delivering a concentrated, bold taste. These differences shape Dubai’s unique coffee culture.
Next Steps
Start your coffee journey by visiting a mix of classic and modern spots across the city. Head to Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi for an authentic Arabic coffee experience, or stop by Kimbo Caffe in DIFC for a taste of true Italian espresso [21][18].
For a modern twist, check out venues that blend these traditions into something new. Platforms like Coffee Shop Arcade can guide you to both traditional and contemporary coffee spots in Dubai. Whether you enjoy the spiced aroma of Arabic coffee or the rich intensity of Italian espresso, Dubai has something to delight every coffee lover.