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C C Illustration / Yalan Zhang Photo / Olivier Nkurunziza

Aroma of Heritage

For hundreds of years, coffee has been an essential part of Arab culture and
tradition. Serving Arabic coffee to guests is a very important part of Arabian hos-
pitality and involves elaborate preparation and serving rituals. The act of serving
coffee is seen as an act of generosity and is essential for any kind of gathering.
In the United Arab Emirates, coffee (also known as “gahwa” in the Emirati
Arabic dialect) is highly respected and symbolic of hospitality. As a sign of its cul-
tural significance, the UAE along with Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar applied to
have Arabic coffee inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity, which was granted in 2015.
Not offering coffee to guests is seen as a sign of disrespect, for it implies that
their host has not paid them the full respect they deserve. In Arab culture, coffee
is also seen as a sign of reconciliation and tolerance, an important part of resolving
disputes between people.
Beyond its cultural significance, Arabic coffee has become an authentic na-
ABU DHABI
tional tradition in the UAE and one of the defining characteristics of Emirati iden-
tity around the world. This centuries-old practice remains entrenched in social
COFFEE IN
rituals and is a highly respected part of hospitality culture. Served in tiny handleless
cups, the flavor and aroma of Arabic coffee hold an allure for many, making it an
integral part of Emirati heritage.
Arab cultures have embraced specialty coffee the same way they have embraced
coffee traditions, by imbuing it with a unique cultural identity. In the UAE, special-
ty coffee has become particularly popular in recent years as people look for ways
to enjoy quality coffee while supporting local coffee producers and artisans.
At the center of UAE, you will find its cultural heart: Abu Dhabi. Less than 50
years ago, Abu Dhabi was a barren desert inhabited by Bedouin tribes and small
villages. Today, Abu Dhabi is a multicultural hub that continues to celebrate its rich
culture and heritage. The city is vibrant with activities like camel racing and dhow
sailing, as well as traditional forms of art such as Arabic poetry, music, and dance.
In Abu Dhabi, coffee is not just being limited to its traditional roots but rath-
er making a mark in the contemporary world through specialty roasteries and
coffee shops. The artisans serving specialty coffee in the UAE are combining tradi-
tional Arab techniques with modern roasting styles, resulting in a unique flavor that
captures the essence of both.
As the popularity of specialty coffee continues to grow in the UAE, these ar-
tisanal roasters are putting Emirati culture on the map with their unique and delicious
creations. Check out these five local coffee shops in Abu Dhabi, each of which offers
its own unique take on the Emirati coffee experience.

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