Must try Winter drinks in Dubai

Winter in Dubai is all about finding that perfect spot to enjoy a warm beverage that not only tastes like a hug in a mug but also introduces you to the local and international flavors that make up the city’s diverse culture.

So, pull up a chair, we’re about to spill the beans (and leaves, and spices!) on where to find the most soul-satisfying sips this winter in Dubai. Get ready to warm your palate and your heart with every cupful!

Karak Chai

Karak Chai has become a beloved staple in the United Arab Emirates, resonating deeply within both the expatriate and local communities. The drink's roots in the UAE can be traced back to the 1960s, coinciding with the country's oil boom and the influx of the Indian diaspora.

This strong, spiced tea, known for its comforting and sweetly aromatic flavors, mirrors the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine but has been wholeheartedly embraced by the Emirati culture.

The name 'Karak Chai' comes from the Hindi words 'Karak,' meaning strong, and 'chai,' meaning tea. A typical preparation involves boiling black tea leaves with milk, sugar, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and saffron, which are later strained to serve the drink hot.

Karak Chai, with its milky texture, aromatic spices, and comforting warmth, is a fixture in the daily life of the UAE residents, symbolizing home, camaraderie, and the shared experiences of winters in the Gulf region.

Places that serve the best Karak

Filli

FiLLi Cafe has risen from a humble cafeteria in Dubai to a beloved tea brand across the UAE and beyond. Distinctive for its Signature Zafran Tea, FiLLi Cafe stands out for its dedication to quality and the pursuit of a global presence, while remaining a cherished spot for tea aficionados seeking a taste of home or something uniquely delightful.

Locations: Multiple Locations; Find the complete list here: Find a Filli

Rabbash

Since its inception in 2003, Rabbash Cafe has been a beloved fixture on Mamzar Corniche, bringing people together over the rich aroma and warmth of Emirati Karak. What started as a simple tea service for beachgoers has blossomed into a vibrant gathering spot, fostering countless conversations and connections.

Locations: Mamzar; Warqa

Koukh Al Shai

Established in 1986, has become a revered brand among tea aficionados in the GCC, renowned for offering a distinctive selection of traditional teas and a variety of other delectable offerings including coffee, burgers, sandwiches, and juices. It is a 35-year legacy of taste and tradition in the food and beverage industry.

Locations: Rashidiya; Warqa; Al Quasais; Nad Sheba and more. Call on +971 67495353 for location information.

Qahwa (Arabic Coffee)

Qahwa, the Arabic coffee, is a cornerstone of Arab culture with a deep-seated tradition in the United Arab Emirates, symbolizing the renowned hospitality of its people. This emblem of unity and cultural heritage is a staple at Emirati gatherings, celebrated for its distinctive preparation methods passed down from Bedouin roots.

The careful sorting, washing, drying, and roasting of coffee beans are crucial to its rich flavor, often prepared in a traditional kuwar. Serving Qahwa is an art in itself, adhering to a precise etiquette that respects the roles of the server, host, and guest, emphasizing the communal bond it fosters.

With a custom of serving the coffee a quarter cup at a time, guests typically partake in the ritual by enjoying at least one but no more than three cups, as a mark of respect and enjoyment of this cherished beverage.

Arabic Coffee, a robust and full-bodied concoction traditionally brewed in a dallah made of tin and copper and served unsweetened, is widely accessible throughout the city. Patrons have the option to indulge in classic Arabic Coffee infused with aromatic cardamom and saffron, or to opt for the simplicity of pure Arabic coffee.

Places that serve the best Qahwa

Khan Murjan

Khan Murjan provides an immersive experience where patrons can enjoy genuine Arabic coffee and a selection of traditional Arabic sweets and dishes. The setting, reminiscent of a classic Syrian home featuring a quaint fountain and live Oud music, complements the rich flavors of their traditional hot beverages made from the finest ingredients.

Location: Khan Murjan Souk, Wafi Mall

The Coffee Museum

The Coffee Museum is a haven for coffee enthusiasts, offering a tranquil space where visitors can explore a diverse collection of coffees from around the globe and witness the art of live brewing through Ethiopian, Egyptian, and Emirati techniques. This unique museum not only serves authentic Arabic coffee but also encapsulates the rich heritage of Arabic culture within its traditional architecture and serene oriental ambiance.

Location: Al Fahidi District

Café Bateel

Cafe Bateel stands out in the Middle East for its traditional yet innovative coffee offerings, such as signature qahwas, royal qahwas, and unique flavors like date latte. Catering to festive occasions with a special Ramadan menu, Bateel is synonymous with gourmet drinks, from Arabica coffee blends to exquisite tea selections that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Location: Multiple Locations; Find the complete list here: Store Locator

Turkish Salep

Salep is a cherished warm drink in Turkey, traditionally made during the colder months from the finely ground roots of wild orchids. This creamy and slightly sweet beverage is renowned for its health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.

For those looking to enjoy salep, the preparation involves heating milk, adding sugar to taste, and whisking in the salep powder until the mixture thickens. When selecting the best Salep, it's important to opt for products made from quality orchid roots and free from artificial additives, ensuring a rich and authentic taste.

Places that serve the best Salep

Hafiz Mustafa 1864

Hafiz Mustafa 1864 is celebrated for its exceptional salep, meticulously produced with superior orchids and age-old methods. Renowned for its excellence, Hafiz Mustafa's salep stands out in the market. It is made exclusively with the finest orchid roots and pure, natural ingredients, yielding a salep that is both luxurious and flavorful. Recommended to be paired with Turkish baklava or similar desserts for a complete treat.

Hot Chocolate

This classic beverage is a winter favorite, conjuring images of cozy evenings by the fire, soft blankets, and the joy of watching snowflakes dance their way to the ground.

Hot chocolate originated in the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations over 2000 years ago as a bitter, spicy drink called "xocoatl," made from ground cacao beans mixed with water and spices. The Spanish conquistadors brought it to Europe in the 16th century, where it was sweetened with sugar and flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, becoming a favorite among the aristocracy.

The development of cocoa powder in the 19th century made hot chocolate easier to prepare and more widely accessible, leading to its global popularity as a warm, comforting beverage enjoyed especially in the winter months.

Rich in flavor and history, hot chocolate is a luxurious escape from the chill of winter, a treat that invites you to slow down and appreciate the moment.

Places that serve the best Hot Chocolate

Mirzam

Mirzam Chocolate Makers is renowned for their in-house made chocolates and specialty hot chocolates infused with exotic spices.

They source single-origin cocoa beans from the historical maritime Spice Route, ensuring a rich heritage and diverse flavors. Their hot chocolates, available in flavors like rose, Moroccan mint, cinnamon, and orange zest, are crafted for a perfectly smooth texture.

Location: Al Qouz 3; Qasr Al Hosn

Cocoville

CocoVille is an esteemed Dubai-based chocolate boutique known for its exquisite handmade chocolates. Established by an Emirati entrepreneur, Aysha, the shop has been delighting customers for over a decade with its artisanal chocolates, truffles, and unique 'chococcino' drinks.

Location: Nad Al Sheba 1st, Meydan

Said DAL 1923

Said DAL 1923 is a renowned café in Dubai's City Walk, known for its homemade Italian chocolates and rich hot chocolate varieties, including hazelnut, dark, and milk chocolate. Originating as a chocolate factory in Rome in 1923, this family business blends vintage charm with European flair, offering a menu that extends to Italian delicacies like focaccia, pasta, and pizza, all made by in-house chefs.

Location: City Walk

During winter, a warm drink is more than just a beverage—it's a vessel of comfort and warmth that transcends the physical. The steam rising in gentle swirls, the heat permeating through the cup into your hands, and the rich flavors that unfold on your palate work in harmony to deliver a deep sense of satisfaction and solace. It's a simple pleasure that revives, rejuvenates, and reconnects us to the comforting rituals of the colder months.