Sippin' Local: Discover Dubai's Best Independent Coffee Shops
From espressos and lattes to macchiatos and frappuccinos, coffee is a versatile beverage that's enjoyed by billions worldwide. Whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced, black or sweetened, there's a perfect cup for every taste preference. The rich aroma and bold flavor of coffee make it a beloved morning ritual for many people.
In Dubai, coffee is not just a simple morning drink, it's history and heritage. In fact, there's an entire museum in the city just dedicated to coffee! For decades, coffee has played a significant role in the social and cultural fabric of Dubai, bringing people together to share stories and connect over a cup of their favorite brew.
Today, the importance of coffee in Dubai lives on through the independent coffee shops around the city. These cafes offer a unique and diverse coffee experience, from traditional Arabic coffee to trendy specialty blends. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a creative latte art creation, Dubai's coffee scene has something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some of the most popular independent coffee shops in Dubai!
To The Moon & Back
To The Moon & Back stands out as a one-of-a-kind coffee shop, established by two passionate Emirati nationals. Drawing inspiration from the distinctive coffee culture of Melbourne, this cafe offers a truly extraordinary experience in the heart of Dubai.
The space-themed concept creates an ambiance that is both relaxing and captivating, with a primary focus on serving exceptional coffee and fostering positive vibes. The cafe's design is reminiscent of the cosmos, featuring subtle galactic elements such as antiqued brass moon floor engravings, pearlescent column mosaics, and a serene courtyard. This unique setting provides a sanctuary for visitors seeking top-notch coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.
Location: Jumeirah
Timings: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm | 7:00 pm to 2:00 am
Contact: 04-388-8414
Avg. price for two: 155 AED
Number Five
Number Five coffee, contrary to the name, is definitely number one! This coffee shop has been in the game for over 4 years and continues to impress customers with its high-quality beans sourced from around the world. Though you may be overwhelmed by the crowds and queues waiting for that delicious brew, it's all worth it for that sip of perfection.
Location: Umm Suqeim
Timings:
- 6:30 pm to 1:30 am on Sunday to Thursday
- 6:30 pm to 2:00 am on Friday and Saturday
Contact: 04-880-0899
Avg. price for two: 65 AED
RAW Coffee Company
RAW Coffee Cafe is a well-loved local coffee shop in Dubai that takes pride in roasting its own beans. The veteran cafe offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere and is staffed by award-winning baristas. In addition to serving a variety of unique brews and blends, RAW Coffee Company also provides classes on coffee preparation. For those on the go, they offer nitro-infused cold brew coffee in two strengths. RAW Coffee Company sources premium beans from around the world and roasts them in small batches, offering both single origins and blends. They also provide delivery services for those who want to enjoy their coffee at home.
Location: Al Quoz
Timings: 7:30 am to 3:00 pm
Contact: 04-339-5474
Avg. price for two: 140 AED
Roseleaf Cafe
Roseleaf Cafe, an Aussie/Arab-owned coffee shop has been in the game for over a decade. Formerly housed in the conservatory at the back of Dubai Garden Centre, the beloved has moved up, now taking up double the original space. This bright and airy cafe mixes vintage continental diner vibes with a contemporary Antipodean aesthetic, reminiscent of the traditional cafe inside garden centres across rural towns in England. Aside from their freshly roasted coffee, you can also find some authentic tea leaves straight from Australia.
Location: Emirates Golf Club and The Garden Concept
Timings:
- From 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (The Garden Concept)
- From 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Emirates Golf Club)
Contact: 050-571-1944
Avg. price for two: 165 AED
Nightjar Coffee Roasters
Nightjar Coffee Roasters, as the name suggests, specializes in roasting their own coffee beans. Its specialty beans – directly sourced from producers and small-lot holders in Rwanda, Brazil, and Colombia – are roasted and brewed on-site, bringing out the best flavors. Nightjar Coffee Roasters offers a variety of blends and single-origin options for coffee enthusiasts to enjoy. Each blend has its own unique taste profile and aroma, which is carefully crafted to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Location: Branches in Alserkal Avenue, Madinat Badr, and City Walk
Timings:
- From 9:00 am to 10:00 pm (Alserkal Avenue)
- From 12:00 pm to 12:00 am (Madinat Badr)
- From 9:00 am to 1:00 am (City Walk)
Contact: 050-365-1120
Avg. price for two: 170 AED
Tom & Serg
Tom & Serg is a popular coffee shop in Dubai, known for its inspiration from Melbourne's independent coffee house culture. The cafe offers a chic, industrial-style open space and is famous for its signature flat white, served with full-fat milk steamed to 65°C. Opened in 2014, Tom & Serg brought back all-day breakfasts and house-roasted coffee, marking the beginning of Australian-style eateries in the area. Tom & Serg is a cornerstone of Dubai's coffee shop and weekend brunch scene, shaping the coffee culture in the city.
Location: Al Quoz
Timings:
- From 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Monday to Friday
- From 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday
Contact: 056-474-6812
Avg. price for two: 210 AED
The Espresso Lab
If you're a coffee enthusiast in Dubai, The Espresso Lab in Dubai Design District is a must-visit spot. Founded by Ibrahim Al Mallouhi, this coffee shop is known for its sleek, minimalist design and its dedication to high-quality coffee. They offer a variety of coffee options, with a focus on precision and sourcing beans exclusively from top-quality farms. The menu includes espresso, fika, cold brew, and unique variations like the 3-ways iced espresso and the signature orange citrus-infused specialty espresso catalyst. The shop also sells sleek nano jars of house coffee and coffee bowls. The spacious, clean design makes it a great spot for meetings. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just love a good cup of joe, The Espresso Lab is definitely worth a visit.
Location: Dubai Design District
Timings: 8:00 am to 1:00 am
Contact: 050-421-1188
Avg. price for two: 70 AED
Lulu and the Beanstalk
Lulu & The Beanstalk is a unique café and bar located in the ICD Brookfield complex in DIFC. Founded by two sisters, the café is named after their beloved grandmother. During the day, it's a cozy spot for DIFC workers and freelancers. By night, it transforms into a lively place with great cocktails and resident DJs. The café is a mix of a coffee shop, cocktail bar, bookshop, co-working space, and after-work hangout. It's a whimsical and fairytale-like spot with a wide selection of books, comfortable seating, and delicious food and drinks. Whether you're looking for a cup of coffee, a business lunch, or a place to unwind after work, Lulu & The Beanstalk has something for everyone.
Location: DIFC
Timings:
- From 9:00 am to 11:00 pm on Monday to Thursday
- From 9:00 am to 1:00 am on Friday
- From 11:00 am to 12:00 am on Saturday
Contact: 04-268-8664
Avg. price for two: 300 AED
Alchemy Coffee
If you're ever in the mood for a unique coffee experience, Alchemy in Dubai is the place to be. This cool coffee shop offers a unique coffee experience with a futuristic vibe and serves coffee in seven different ways using beans from single-origin farms roasted in Dubai. Located in Jumeirah, Alchemy not only focuses on great coffee but also offers some tasty light bites like tahini brownies, cookies, and buns. The space is sleek and modern, and the pool adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a cool spot to hang out, Alchemy is worth a visit.
Location: Jumeirah
Timings: From 9:00 am to 2:00 am
Contact: 054-708-6801
Avg. price for two: 5o AED
The Grey
The Grey is a high-end café located near Safa Park in Dubai. The café features a stylish and modern design with a monochromatic color scheme and a sleek terrazzo bar. It is a popular spot for remote workers during the week and for friends catching up over the weekend. The café offers a variety of breakfast and all-day dishes, including delicious pastries made in-house. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee and some relaxation. Known for its minimalist and trendy interiors, the café serves a wide range of coffee and creative food options.
Location: Al Wasl
Timings:
- From 8:00 am to 2:00 am on Sunday to Thursday
- From 8:00 am to 3:00 am on Friday and Saturday
Contact: 04-236-2996
Avg. price for two: 260 AED