While Dubai is a city of global flavors, at its heart lies a deep-rooted tradition of hospitality, symbolized by the serving of Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates. This ritual is more than just a beverage—it's a gesture of welcome, a sign of respect, and a cornerstone of Emirati culture. The bitter, cardamom-infused coffee perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the dates, creating a flavor combination that has been cherished for centuries.
For those who want to experience this authentic tradition, Dubai offers a variety of places, from historic tearooms to modern cultural centers. Here are 10 of the best spots to enjoy Arabic coffee and dates, and immerse yourself in a key part of the local heritage:
1. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)
- The Vibe: A unique cultural exchange center located in a traditional wind-tower house in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
- Why it's Great: This is arguably the most authentic experience you can get. The SMCCU offers cultural meals and tours where you are served gahwa and dates in a traditional setting while engaging in an open Q&A session about Emirati culture and customs.
- Don't Miss: The "Cultural Meal" or "Iftar" experience provides a comprehensive look into local traditions and is a fantastic way to learn.
2. Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Café (Al Fahidi)
- The Vibe: A serene and picturesque courtyard café with turquoise benches, white lace curtains, and a menu full of traditional Emirati dishes.
- Why it's Great: The atmosphere is enchanting and transports you to a bygone era. They serve excellent gahwa in a traditional setting, allowing you to relax and soak in the ambiance of Old Dubai.
- Don't Miss: Pair your gahwa with a variety of dates, or try their famous Emirati breakfast platter for a full culinary experience.
3. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café (Multiple Locations)
- The Vibe: A chain of restaurants designed to look and feel like a traditional Emirati home from the 1960s, complete with old photos and vintage decor.
- Why it's Great: Al Fanar offers a nostalgic trip back in time. The service is excellent, and they take pride in serving high-quality, traditional Emirati food and, of course, authentic gahwa.
- Don't Miss: Enjoy your gahwa after a hearty meal of machboos or saloona.
4. House of Coffee (Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood)
- The Vibe: A dedicated coffee house and museum that celebrates the history of coffee in the Arab world.
- Why it's Great: It's not just a place to drink coffee; it's a place to learn about it. You can see different traditional roasting and brewing methods, and then taste the various styles of Arabic coffee with dates.
- Don't Miss: The museum tour is highly recommended for any coffee enthusiast.
5. Bateaux Dubai (Dubai Creek)
- The Vibe: A luxury dinner cruise on Dubai Creek that offers fine dining with a modern twist.
- Why it's Great: While modern, the cruise includes a traditional welcome with gahwa and dates. It's a unique way to experience this tradition while sailing past historic and modern landmarks.
- Don't Miss: The spectacular views of Dubai's old and new cityscapes from the water.
6. The Majlis Café (The Dubai Mall)
- The Vibe: A modern café that specializes in camel milk products, including a unique camel milk gahwa.
- Why it's Great: For a contemporary take on the tradition, The Majlis offers a different kind of gahwa experience. They serve their coffee with fresh dates and a selection of camel milk chocolates.
- Don't Miss: The camel milk gelato and camel milk shakes are also must-tries.
7. Sikka Café (City Walk & La Mer)
- The Vibe: A fusion of modern and traditional, offering a contemporary take on Emirati and Arabian Gulf cuisine.
- Why it's Great: The café is a nod to the "sikka" or narrow alleyways of Old Dubai. It’s a stylish and relaxed spot to enjoy a cup of gahwa and dates, blending traditional flavors with a modern setting.
- Don't Miss: Their gahwa is served in a traditional dallah (coffee pot) and pairs well with their date pudding.
8. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant (Al Seef)
- The Vibe: Located in the picturesque Al Seef district, this restaurant offers a beautiful view of the creek and a very traditional, Bedouin-inspired atmosphere.
- Why it's Great: The seating is in private majlis-style tents, which provides an intimate and authentic setting for a meal and some gahwa and dates. The decor and staff are all dressed in traditional style.
- Don't Miss: Try their traditional Bedouin coffee and sit by the window for a stunning view of the abra boats on the creek.
9. Coffee Museum (Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood)
- The Vibe: Located next to the Arabian Tea House, this museum is a treasure trove of coffee history from around the world, with a special focus on the Arabic tradition.
- Why it's Great: The museum has a small café where you can sample different types of coffee, including gahwa, and learn about the brewing process. It's an educational and delicious experience.
- Don't Miss: The free tastings are a great way to explore the different flavors of coffee.
10. The Palmery (Burj Al Arab Jumeirah)
- The Vibe: A luxurious and elegant lounge at the iconic Burj Al Arab.
- Why it's Great: For a truly opulent experience, you can have gahwa and dates in one of Dubai's most famous hotels. The service is impeccable, and the setting is breathtaking. It's an unforgettable way to indulge in this tradition.
- Don't Miss: The stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the unique architecture of the hotel.
