Craving a cup of coffee that tells a story from bean to brew, capturing the essence of its origin, the care of its cultivation, and the craft behind every roast? Let’s explore Dubai’s vibrant and ever-evolving coffee scene, where passionate local roasters transform handpicked global beans into unforgettable experiences, one cup at a time.
Understanding Dubai’s Specialty Coffee Scene
Dubai’s coffee culture has evolved rapidly, blending traditional Arabic coffee customs with modern specialty trends. The city now hosts a plethora of local roasters dedicated to sourcing high-quality beans and mastering the art of roasting. This fusion offers coffee enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore diverse flavors and brewing techniques.
Top Local Coffee Roasters to Explore
1. Grandmother Coffee Roastery
Located in Al Quoz, Grandmother Coffee Roastery is renowned for its meticulous roasting processes and commitment to quality. They offer a range of beans, including the Panama Geisha, known for its complex flavor profile. Visitors can enjoy a cozy atmosphere while sampling their diverse coffee selections.
2. Cypher Roastery
Also situated in Al Quoz, Cypher Roastery emphasizes transparency and education in coffee. They provide insights into their roasting techniques and bean origins, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft. Their selection includes beans from Ethiopia, Colombia, and beyond.
3. RoR Coffee Roastery
RoR, standing for “Rate of Rise,” focuses on precision in roasting to highlight each bean’s unique characteristics. Their offerings often feature experimental processing methods, resulting in distinctive flavor notes. The roastery also hosts cupping sessions for those interested in expanding their palate.
4. Roast Story
A newer addition to Dubai’s coffee scene, Roast Story in Khawaneej offers a minimalist space where coffee takes center stage. They specialize in single-origin beans and provide detailed information about each coffee’s journey from farm to cup.
5. Specialty Batch Coffee
Founded in 2013, Specialty Batch Coffee has been instrumental in shaping Dubai’s specialty coffee landscape. They focus on sustainable sourcing and offer training programs for aspiring baristas. Their beans are available for purchase, allowing customers to recreate the experience at home.
6. Emirati Coffee Co
Emirati Coffee Co celebrates local heritage while embracing global coffee trends. They offer a curated selection of beans and emphasize the importance of community in coffee culture. Their subscription service ensures fresh beans are delivered to your doorstep regularly.
7. RAW Coffee Company
A pioneer in Dubai’s specialty coffee movement, RAW Coffee Company offers organic beans roasted in-house. Their warehouse-style café in Al Quoz doubles as a training center, promoting coffee education and appreciation.
8. Boon Coffee
Boon Coffee brings Ethiopian coffee traditions to Dubai, offering a range of beans sourced directly from Ethiopian farms. Their commitment to authenticity is evident in their brewing methods and café ambiance.
9. The Espresso Lab
Located in Dubai Design District, The Espresso Lab is known for its innovative approach to coffee. They experiment with brewing techniques and bean profiles, providing a dynamic experience for coffee aficionados.
10. Seven Fortunes
Seven Fortunes combines passion and precision in their roasting process. They offer a selection of beans with unique flavor profiles, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates. Their café provides a modern setting to enjoy meticulously crafted brews.

Tips for Discovering the Best Local Roasters
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: Areas like Al Quoz, Jumeirah, and Dubai Design District are hubs for specialty coffee.
- Attend Cupping Sessions: Many roasteries offer tasting events where you can learn about flavor profiles and brewing methods.
- Engage with Baristas: Don’t hesitate to ask questions; baristas often have valuable insights into bean origins and brewing techniques.
- Follow Social Media: Roasteries frequently announce new bean arrivals and events on their platforms.
- Support Local: Purchasing beans directly from roasteries supports the local economy and ensures freshness.
Exploring Dubai’s local coffee roasters offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the city’s vibrant coffee scene has something to offer.
This guide was crafted by the www.few.ae team to provide an insightful journey into Dubai’s specialty coffee landscape.