Category: Coffee Community

Ethiopia Hosts First Cup Tasters Challenge, Marking a New Chapter for Its Coffee Community

Posted on by Qahwa World

Addis Ababa – world×Buna Kura

Galani Coffee made history on December 1 by hosting Ethiopia’s first Cup Tasters Challenge, an event organized in partnership with the Iran Coffee Society and celebrated as a defining milestone for the country’s fast-growing specialty coffee scene.

The competition brought two global champions to Addis Ababa:
• Young Baek, World Cup Tasters Champion
• Taufan Mokoginta, World Roasting Champion

Their presence transformed the event into an intensive learning platform, where Ethiopia’s rising sensory talents received coaching, cupped side-by-side with champions, and gained exposure to world-class tasting standards.

Beyond the excitement of competition, the day symbolized something far greater — a meaningful connection between Ethiopia’s legacy as the birthplace of coffee and the expanding global culture of specialty coffee. The challenge underscored Ethiopia’s growing ambition to elevate its sensory professionals and strengthen its role at the forefront of the international coffee industry.

Arada Launches Flagship Branch of The Reformatory Lab in Jumeirah, Dubai

Posted on by Qahwa World

90-Seat Café Opens Near Jumeirah Beach, Offering the Finest Coffee and Freshly Baked Goods Daily

Dubai – Qahwa World

Arada has officially announced the opening of the first flagship branch of the leading Australian coffee brand, “The Reformatory Lab,” in the Jumeirah area, one of Dubai’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. The café will offer the highest quality coffee and freshly prepared baked goods daily.

The new café, with a capacity of 90 seats distributed across indoor and outdoor areas, is located on Umm Al Sheif Street, just a few minutes from Jumeirah Beach. It will offer the Australian brand’s full menu of premium coffee and signature blends, in addition to a range of delicious new and fresh pastries for customers.

The café will welcome visitors starting Wednesday, November 26. It will be open to everyone from 7 AM to 11 PM, Monday to Thursday, and from 8 AM to midnight on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Commenting on the new opening, Simon Jaramillo, General Manager of The Reformatory Lab, said: “The new branch will provide a space to enjoy everything we love about the world of coffee – the science, the story, the soul – which we will present to its enthusiasts in an environment that suits our personality: in a bold, creative, and heartfelt space, in complete harmony and alignment with the energy and vitality of the Jumeirah area.”

The Reformatory Lab was founded in Sydney and launched in the UAE by Arada in early 2025, under the supervision of fourth-generation Colombian coffee farmer, Simon Jaramillo. The brand is known for combining high-quality coffee beans, innovative brewing methods, and a visual identity inspired by comic book culture.

The opening of the Jumeirah branch follows the great success of its first sales outlet in the UAE at Arada’s W Residences Dubai Harbour sales centre.

Arada plans to open 10 branches of “The Reformatory Lab” across the UAE by the end of 2027, in addition to a central roastery.

Launched in 2017 and headquartered in the UAE, Arada aims to construct urban spaces where people connect and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

The company’s operations cover several areas, including real estate development, retail, education, health, fitness, wellness, and hospitality sectors.

The innovative real estate developer has launched ten integrated communities in the UAE so far and has expanded its international activity into the British and Australian markets.

Arada also manages a portfolio of complementary brands and experiences, including major fitness clubs, a number of retail and food and beverage assets, social initiatives, and visitor destinations.

Mondik Alpas Crowned Champion of the LATTE ART THROWDOWN at Julith’s High-Stakes Launch Event

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – (Qahwa World)

In a dazzling display combining skill and artistic precision, the outstanding barista, Mondik Alpas, secured the championship title at the high-profile LATTE ART THROWDOWN. The event was held to celebrate the launch of the new Victoria Arduino Maverick Core espresso machine and the official debut of the Julith Wholesale Launch service.

The internationally renowned Julith Café served as the stage for this competition, hosting an elite group of coffee experts who competed face-to-face. The café recently captured global attention after acquiring and serving the world’s most expensive coffee, with a single cup valued at nearly one thousand dollars. The stakes were immensely high, with the grand prize being Victoria Arduino’s prestigious Eagle One Prima espresso machine.

Maverick Core Proves Its Mettle

Victoria Arduino chose this electrifying event to introduce the Maverick Core, a new machine designed to enhance the control and creative capabilities of coffee experts.

Speaking to Qahwa World, Antonio Oria of Victoria Arduino described the event as the ideal platform to showcase the machine’s capabilities. Oria stated: “We are here in Julith for a latte art competition by introducing our new machine, the Maverick Core… Baristas will compete back to back, and the winner will take home an Eagle One Prima.”

Oria also highlighted the importance of the host venue: “Today, we are also testing the new B2B (business-to-business) offer from Julith Coffee, which is being brewed in the batch brew with the 3TAMP device and is available for everyone to try. Amazing coffee, amazing competitors, amazing machine, and amazing people.”

Competitive Intensity and Supportive Crowd

The competitive atmosphere was charged with sharp focus and high tension. Judge Elena Hess praised the participants’ courage, saying: “I really enjoy the competition, the atmosphere, all participants. They are really brave, all of them, to participate, because it’s actually really stressful… Competing here is much harder than working behind the counter, due to the emotional tension.” She commended the positive spirit, adding: “They are all truly fun, and I am proud of them. The audience here is also very supportive. It’s a truly good and enjoyable event.”

For her part, Judge Estella Zuleta shared the same sentiment, commenting on the exceptional talent and collective spirit of the competitors: “I see very good and talented coffee experts showcasing their skills in the competition, and a good spirit among all attendees with positive energy.”

Mondik Alpas Secures the Title

Ultimately, it was Mondik Alpas who secured the title, thanks to his finesse and precision using the new Maverick Core machine, adding a major victory to his record. This win underscores the powerful synergy between the talent of coffee experts, innovative equipment, and the supportive coffee culture celebrated at Julith Café.

Champion’s Quote

In a brief statement given to Qahwa World after his coronation, Champion Mondik Alpas emphasized the fierce level of competition, noting the quality of his opponents: “The competition was very tough; because everyone gave it their all, with more effort and more focused training.” He stressed that the win was not easy, but extremely difficult, because the other competitors were also very good.

Mondik Alpas Wins Latte Art Throwdown: Victoria Arduino Maverick Core Launch at Julith Café

A Community Celebration and Presentation

The event concluded with the presence of Serkan Sagsoz, Co-founder of Julith Café. Federico Ortelli, General Manager of the Simonelli Group in the Middle East, presented the valuable prize, the “Eagle One Prima” machine, to the champion. Ortelli wished him success in his career path, praised the spirit that dominated the competition, and the distinguished participation of everyone, reaffirming Victoria Arduino’s commitment to supporting the region’s coffee community with all its expertise and capabilities.

Would you like me to generate the SEO pack (Focus keyphrase, slug, title, meta description, and tags) for this news article, based on your instructions?

Caffè Nero Completes Major Refurbishment of First UAE Store at Dubai Mall

Posted on by Qahwa World

DUBAI – Qahwa World

Premium coffee house chain Caffè Nero has finalized a substantial renovation of its establishment within The Dubai Mall. The store, which was the brand’s first location in the United Arab Emirates when it opened 15 years ago, has been completely refurbished to mark the anniversary and update its presence in the high-traffic retail center.

The store, situated adjacent to the Dubai Ice Rink, now features a bespoke design concept tailored for the location. The new interior incorporates natural wood finishes, soft lighting elements, and an earthy color palette, creating a distinct ambiance. Seating arrangements have been redesigned to provide a variety of options, including both secluded areas and open communal tables, serving the needs of shoppers and visitors seeking a break.

The store’s coffee offerings, which are prepared by the in-house baristas, remain a central focus of the operation.

Gareth Hopley, Head of Communications at Caffè Nero, commented on the reopening, noting the importance of the refresh for the long-standing location. “We have worked to update the look and feel while ensuring the store retains its established character. We anticipate customers will appreciate the new atmosphere and design elements of this particular location,” Hopley stated.

Caffè Nero operates as an independent, family-owned specialty coffee house brand. Globally, the group runs over 1,150 stores across 11 countries, with the UAE operation currently comprising more than 20 stores. The brand’s retail presence in the UAE is managed by Al Tayer Insignia, a retail division of the Al Tayer Group.

ICO Stands with Vietnam as Heavy Rains Devastate Coffee Heartland

Posted on by Qahwa World

Key Impacts:

  • 50+ fatalities reported nationwide.

  • Dak Lak farmers report only 10-15% harvest completion.

  • Direct losses estimated at $341 million USD.

  • Global Robusta futures are surging on supply fears.

Dubai – Qahwa World

The International Coffee Organization (ICO) has issued an urgent message of solidarity to Vietnam following catastrophic flooding that has claimed dozens of lives and paralyzed the country’s vital “Coffee Belt” in the Central Highlands.

The disaster, triggered by weeks of relentless torrential rains and the aftermath of recent tropical storms, has struck at the peak of the coffee harvest season, threatening one of the world’s most critical supplies of Robusta beans.

In a statement posted on its official Instagram account, the ICO addressed the tragedy directly, emphasizing the human cost behind the supply chain disruption.

“The International Coffee Organization expresses its heartfelt condolences following the severe floods in Vietnam, which have tragically claimed lives and devastated coffee-growing communities,” the statement read.

The message highlighted the plight of smallholder farmers who are now facing the dual trauma of personal loss and economic ruin. “Our thoughts are with the families affected and with the farmers whose harvests have been severely damaged by the persistent rains. The ICO stands in solidarity with Vietnam and remains committed to supporting resilience and recovery across the global coffee sector.”

The Central Highlands, particularly the provinces of Dak Lak and Lam Dong, serve as the engine of Vietnam’s coffee industry, accounting for over a third of the world’s Robusta supply. November usually marks the bustling onset of the harvest, but this year, the fields are silent and waterlogged.

Field estimates indicate that farmers in Dak Lak province had managed to harvest only 10% to 15% of their crop before the floods hit. In low-lying areas, reports confirm that floodwaters have submerged coffee trees by up to two meters, threatening root rot and the destruction of ripe cherries.

Heavy Human and Material Losses

Local authorities report that rainfall in some areas has exceeded 1,500mm (59 inches) in recent weeks. The deluge has triggered landslides and flash floods, isolating remote farming villages.

As of this weekend, disaster management agencies have reported over 50 fatalities nationwide. Economically, the Vietnamese government estimates the direct losses from the disaster at approximately 8.98 trillion VND ($341 million USD), with nearly 80,000 hectares of crops damaged, a significant portion being coffee farms.

For coffee farmers, the timing could not be worse.

“The cherries are ripe, but we cannot pick them,” said Nguyen Van An, a farmer in the Buon Ma Thuot region. “If we pick them, we cannot dry them because there is no sun. If we leave them, they rot on the branch or fall into the mud.”

Global Market Tremors

The situation in Vietnam has sent immediate shockwaves through the global commodities market. Coffee futures have surged to multi-week highs as traders brace for a severe supply crunch, with analysts now fearing a drop in Vietnam’s total production by up to 20% compared to previous forecasts.

Unlike Arabica, which is often mechanically dried, Vietnamese Robusta is largely sun-dried on patios. The persistent moisture raises the risk of mold and fermentation, potentially rendering large portions of the crop unusable for export. With global coffee stockpiles already tight, analysts fear this disaster could push consumer prices higher in 2026.

A Call for Resilience

The ICO’s statement underscores a growing urgency within the industry to address climate vulnerability. Vietnam has faced an increasingly erratic climate in 2025, swinging from severe droughts earlier in the year to the current historic floods.

As rescue teams continue to reach isolated communities and the waters slowly recede, the focus will soon turn to recovery. The ICO’s pledge to support “resilience and recovery” suggests that international aid and long-term adaptation strategies will be crucial in helping Vietnam’s coffee sector weather the storms of a changing climate.

Starbucks aims to reach 1,000 stores in India by 2028

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Starbucks’ global leadership has reaffirmed India’s position as one of the company’s most dynamic international markets, announcing new growth targets and fresh support for the country’s coffee sector.

The company’s Chief Executive, Brian Niccol, said in an interview with CNBC TV18 that India is now among the fastest-growing territories for the brand. The joint venture between the US coffee chain and Tata Consumer Products is expected to reach 500 stores this month, marked by the opening of a second Reserve location in the Delhi NCR area.

Niccol confirmed that the long-term ambition is to expand the network to 1,000 stores by 2028, emphasizing that success depends on pairing the company’s global expertise with a strong local presence. He highlighted that the strategy includes rolling out more premium formats aligned with the wider “Back to Starbucks” roadmap.

Starbucks first entered India in 2012 with a store in Mumbai and established a roasting facility in Karnataka the following year.

Alongside its retail growth plans, Starbucks also announced a new initiative aimed at strengthening India’s coffee value chain. Through the newly launched Farmer Support Partnership, the company’s global procurement and trading arm—Starbucks Coffee Trading Company—will work with growers in major producing regions including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. The programme is designed to create technical model farms, promote best agricultural practices, and connect local producers with Starbucks’ global farming network.

The initiative will also support trials of new coffee varietals and collaborate with existing Farmer Support Centers located in countries such as Indonesia, China, and Costa Rica. Niccol said the partnership aims to train 10,000 farmers, combining Starbucks’ agronomy knowledge with Tata Starbucks’ understanding of local conditions.

Tata Consumer Products recently reported that Tata Starbucks returned to like-for-like sales growth for the first time in a year, supported in part by a government reduction in food and beverage taxes. The brand recorded 8% revenue growth in the second quarter ending 30 September 2025.

MOKHA 1450’S LATEST INNOVATION IS A CULTURAL COFFEE EXPERIENCE AT ANDAZ DUBAI THE PALM

Posted on by Qahwa World

POP-UP OPENS NOVEMBER 23RD ON THE MEZZANINE LEVEL

Dubai — Qahwa World

Starting November 23rd, coffee enthusiasts and creative minds alike are in for a treat as Mokha 1450, Dubai’s acclaimed luxury specialty coffee brand, brings its signature craft and experiential coffee innovations to Andaz Dubai The Palm with an exclusive pop-up experience.

Located within the hotel’s Co-Working Lounge on the Mezzanine Level, the pop-up invites guests to work, connect, and unwind while indulging in Mokha 1450’s bespoke single origin coffees. Designed as a vibrant community space, the venue blends productivity with creativity, offering the perfect backdrop for those who enjoy working in an inspiring and creative atmosphere with great coffee and even better company.

Celebrated for its dedication to authentic sourcing and storytelling, Mokha 1450 curates exceptional single-origin coffees from select regions across the globe. At Andaz, this passion comes to life through a bespoke sensory experience that merges the UAE’s unique coffee culture, aroma, artistry, and design.

Mokha 1450 is named after the ancient Middle Eastern port, the birthplace of the world’s first coffee trade in in the middle of the fifteenth century. The brand is renowned for preserving rare coffee varietals, partnering directly with women owned and operated coffee farmers and cooperatives across the world, and ensuring ethical, sustainable, and traceable sourcing. With a commitment to storytelling and cultural heritage, Mokha 1450 has become one of the region’s, as well as the world’s most respected specialty coffee pioneers, celebrated for its innovations, meticulous roasting profiles, exclusive microlots, and deep-rooted mission to honor coffee’s historical culture and origins.

“Welcoming Mokha 1450 aligns perfectly with the Andaz brand ethos,” says Moritz Frings, General Manager of Andaz Dubai The Palm. “Our brand is deeply rooted in culture and self-expression — each Andaz hotel is an imaginative interpretation of its location, a living reflection of local design, flavors, and lifestyle. Their passion for quality and authenticity aligns beautifully with our vision of offering experiences that are local, creative, and full of personality. This collaboration is about more than coffee — it’s about culture, connection, and craft.”

“Andaz Dubai the Palm is an iconic five-star hotel that is beloved in the world of hospitality for its eclectic blending of luxury, community spirit, and a vibrant, personalized guest experiences,” says Garfield Kerr, CEO of Mokha 1450 Luxury Specialty Coffee Dubai. “The bespoke nature of the hotel’s offerings, wherever they are located sets it apart from its peers and is the reason visitors to Dubai gravitate to Andaz Dubai the Palm in large numbers that are well above the normal occupancy rates in Dubai. For these reasons we very much look forward to working together to showcase Dubai’s rich and unique coffee culture that is now leading the world of Specialty Coffee, to both visitors to Dubai and locals alike.”

Mokha 1450 Launches Cultural Coffee Experience at Andaz Dubai

During the daytime, the Co-Working Lounge will serve as a lively hub for productivity and connection — a place where guests and residents can work, network, or simply enjoy a perfectly brewed coffee that is prepared by a Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) certified professional barista in a relaxed yet creative setting. As the evening sets in, the atmosphere transforms, with Mokha 1450 introducing a selection of coffee-based as well as non coffee mocktails crafted to deliver the same depth and complexity as their single origin coffees. These innovative creations give the space a laid-back lounge feel, inviting guests to unwind, socialize, and wrap up their day over unique 0% mixology and coffee-inspired concoctions.

Guests can look forward to limited-edition coffees, signature cold infusions, and interactive tasting sessions led by Mokha 1450’s expert baristas, all within an intimate, design-led setting that embodies both brands’ shared dedication to creativity and community.

Whether you’re starting your morning with a smooth flat white, taking a break between meetings, or winding down with a hand-brewed pour-over or mocktail, Mokha 1450 at Andaz Dubai The Palm offers an inspired escape that blends taste with experience.

Location: Andaz Co-Working Lounge, Mezzanine Level, Andaz Dubai The Palm

Opening Date: 23rd November 2025

Hours: 9 A.M.–7P.M. Daily

OTHER MOKHA 1450 LOCATIONS:

MOKHA 1450 COFFEE BOUTIQUE

Boutique No. 8, Aswaaq Center, Al Badaa, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, UAE

+971 4 321 6455

MOKHA 1450 COFFEE LOUNGE

Golden Mile, Galleria 8, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE

+971 4 425 4067

MOKHA 1450 COFFEE PRIORISTS

Emirates Towers, Trade Centre, Dubai, UAE

+971 58 583 7674

NEW: MOKHA 1450 x A NORMAL DAY BISTRO

A Normal Day Bistro, Dar Al Wasl, 2D Street, Al Wasl, Dubai, UAE

Instagram: @anormaldaybistro

NEW: MOKHA 1450 x THREE BY EVA

Three by Eva, Villa 53 – Al Wasl Street – 23B St, Dubai, UAE

Instagram: @threebyeva

NEW: MOKHA 1450 x MODORA

Modora, Umm Suqeim Street, Al Barsha Second, Dubai, UAE

Instagram: @modorahome

ABOUT MOKHA 1450

Mokha 1450 is a UAE-based luxury specialty coffee brand known for ethically sourcing coffee primarily from some of the world’s finest women-owned and operated coffee farms. With a focus on sustainability, empowerment of women in the coffee industry, and delivering unmatched quality, Mokha 1450 continues to redefine the coffee experience for discerning clientele. Visit us at The Palm Jumeirah, Al Wasl Road, Emirates Towers, or any of our newest locations and pop ups across the UAE to explore the Heart of Coffee.

Website: www.mokha1450.com

Instagram: @Mokha1450

Contact: Ph- 971 4 321 6455; Email- [email protected]

Filli Café from Dubai Opens Its First U.S. Branch, Bringing Saffron Chai to Long Island

Posted on by Qahwa World

Long Island – Qahwa World

A touch of Dubai has reached New York as Filli Café, the UAE-born tea brand, opened its first U.S. branch in Hicksville, Long Island, offering tea lovers a warm and aromatic experience that blends tradition with modern flair.

From the moment guests step inside, they’re greeted by the distinctive aroma of Zafran (saffron) chai, the signature drink that defines the Filli brand. The idea for the new location came from franchise owner Sagar Khanna, who discovered Filli Café during a business trip to Dubai. Moved by the scent and flavor of its tea, he decided to bring the concept home. “We’re a chai shop, not a coffee shop,” Khanna said. “There’s nothing like this in Long Island.”

The café officially opened on October 4 at the newly developed Soni Center, attracting large crowds on its first day, with lines stretching outside and wait times exceeding an hour. Weeks later, the place remains packed every weekend as customers return for another taste of the fragrant saffron tea that has made Filli a global name.

The menu adds to the charm, combining Middle Eastern and South Asian influences with a creative twist — from Pakistani-style flatbreads and a reimagined smashburger, to multi-layered club sandwiches that customers say are unlike anything else in New York. Among the favorites is a spicy pasta dish called Foodles, which Khanna personally recommends.

Founded over two decades ago in Dubai by Rafih Filli, the brand has grown from a small neighborhood café into a global chain with more than 110 branches across the Middle East, the United Kingdom, Canada, and now the United States. Khanna describes the aroma of the saffron tea as “a beautiful addiction” that keeps people coming back for more.

Filli Café Hicksville Opening Hours:

Monday–Thursday: 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Friday–Saturday: 2:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.

Sunday: 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Neil Golez Crowned Champion of the UAE AeroPress Championship 2025

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Neil Golez from Form Roastery in Al Ain has been crowned the Champion of the UAE AeroPress Championship 2025, following three days of intense competition among 250 of the UAE’s most skilled baristas.
Shang Delota from Llama Café claimed second place, while Romario Junior from Modern Coffee by WatchHouse took third.

The championship concluded at Almas Tower, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), where Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC, crowned the winners in the presence of Garfield Kerr, President of the Specialty Coffee Association and CEO of Mokha 1450, and Khalid Al Mulla, President of the Specialty Coffee Association UAE Chapter and Founder of the Coffee Museum in Dubai.

In his first statement after being crowned champion, Neil Golez told Qahwa World:
“This is actually my third season competing. I already have a gold, a silver, and now this gold again. Honestly, I just wanted to win bronze to complete the set — I didn’t expect to take home the gold!

The coffee itself was quite tricky, especially the beans we were given for the finals. I’m really thankful to my colleagues who helped me perfect my recipes; without them, I couldn’t have achieved the water composition I used.

As for my recipe, I kept it simple — focusing on balancing minerals to reduce acidity and enhance the coffee’s body and sweetness. I’m really happy with the result.”

Neil Golez will represent the United Arab Emirates at the World AeroPress Championship 2025, taking place on December 5–6 in Seoul, South Korea.

This year’s event was held under the theme “Celebrating Coffee Culture”, honoring the UAE’s deep-rooted coffee heritage — from the traditional Arabic coffee prepared in the dallah to the rise of specialty coffee and modern brewing methods such as the AeroPress. The event showcased how these traditions come together to form one of the most vibrant and innovative coffee cultures in the world.

The UAE AeroPress Championship is more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and culture. This open and inclusive event welcomes everyone: professional baristas, hobbyists, café owners, coffee brands, and casual visitors. Guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere filled with activities, specialty coffee tasting, AeroPress giveaways, and interactive community programs — the perfect setting to discover the latest coffee trends, connect with local roasters, and witness coffee excellence at its finest.

The World AeroPress Championship is one of the most accessible and widely celebrated coffee competitions, with over 175 events across 60+ countries and more than 5,000 participants annually. Its simple, fast-paced, and enjoyable format creates a relaxed environment that allows creativity and skill to shine. All competitors use the same AeroPress device and coffee provided by the official sponsor, ensuring a fair contest that truly tests brewing skill and innovation.

UAE AeroPress Championship 2025 Kicks Off Tomorrow

Posted on by Qahwa World

A Celebration of the UAE’s “Qahwa Culture” in an Atmosphere of Challenge and Creativity

Dubai – Qahwa World

The UAE AeroPress Championship 2025 kicks off tomorrow in its ninth edition, bringing together more than 250 competitors from across the Emirates — alongside café owners, coffee experts, and enthusiasts — in a spectacular celebration of coffee culture under the theme “A Celebration of Qahwa Culture in the Emirates.”

Proudly supported by Qahwa World as the official media partner, the three-day event will take place from November 6th to 8th at Almas Tower – Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai. Doors open at 4:30 PM, with competitions beginning at 6:00 PM daily. Admission is free for all coffee lovers across the UAE.

Building on the tremendous success of last year’s championship — recognized as the largest AeroPress competition in the world by number of participants — this year’s edition highlights the harmony between traditional Arabic coffee and modern brewing methods such as the AeroPress, reflecting the UAE’s dynamic and culturally rich coffee landscape.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DMCC, said: “The AeroPress Championship serves as a platform that unites excellence in brewing, cultural expression, and global connection. Hosting this event at Almas Tower, supported by the DMCC Coffee Centre — which processed more than 7,400 metric tonnes of coffee in 2024 — reaffirms our ongoing commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for coffee heritage, trade, and innovation.”

Garfield Kerr, CEO of Mokha 1450 and the event’s organizer, added: “The UAE has become one of the world’s leading destinations for specialty coffee, thanks to its long-standing relationship with Arabic qahwa. This championship celebrates that heritage and gives participants the opportunity to showcase their passion, creativity, and brewing artistry.”

Championship Schedule

  • November 6th: Regional Championship 1 – Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain

  • November 7th: Regional Championship 2 – Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah

  • November 8th: National Championship – featuring 21 finalists from across the Emirates

The national champion will go on to represent the UAE at the World AeroPress Championship in Seoul, South Korea, on December 5th and 6th, 2025.

More Than a Competition

Beyond its competitive spirit, the UAE AeroPress Championship is a community celebration, offering coffee tastings, interactive experiences, and AeroPress giveaways, along with opportunities to connect with local roasters and coffee brands — all in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that embodies the true spirit of qahwa culture.

Sponsors and Partners

Organizer: Mokha 1450
Host: DMCC Coffee Centre – Almas Tower
Gold Sponsors: Polpanorte, Aiya Matcha, CMI Coffee, Boncafé, Oatly, Lohas Beans
Silver Sponsors: Stree F&B, KGN Coffee, RAW Coffee Company, Coffee Museum, Karam Coffee
Bronze Sponsors: Steens Middle East, Brewing Gadgets, Victoria Arduino
Media Partner: Qahwa World

The UAE AeroPress Championship is more than just a brewing competition — it is a living expression of community, creativity, and the enduring spirit of coffee in the Emirates.

Starbucks Sells 60% Stake in China Business for $4 Billion

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Starbucks has reached a major agreement to sell a 60 percent controlling stake in its China operations to Hong Kong-based private-equity firm Boyu Capital for $4 billion. The partnership marks one of the largest foreign coffee-sector transactions in Asia, positioning both companies to accelerate Starbucks’ expansion in the world’s biggest branded coffee market.

China remains Starbucks’ most strategic growth region outside the United States. The company currently operates around 8,000 stores nationwide and aims to scale that number to 20,000 in the coming years. Boyu’s local experience and financial backing are expected to support Starbucks’ next phase of growth, particularly in lower-tier Chinese cities where coffee culture is rapidly expanding.

Under the deal, Starbucks will keep its Shanghai headquarters and retain 40 percent ownership of the new joint venture. It will continue to license its brand and intellectual property while maintaining control over store design, training standards, and product development.

Brian Niccol, Chairman and CEO of Starbucks, said the collaboration would strengthen the company’s presence in China:

“Boyu’s deep understanding of Chinese consumers and regional markets will help us reach new communities while staying true to our values of exceptional partner experience and world-class customer service.”

Founded in 2011, Boyu Capital manages investments across Hong Kong, mainland China, and Singapore. Its portfolio exceeds 200 companies, including leading Chinese names such as Mixue Ice Cream and Alibaba Group—one of Starbucks’ delivery partners in China.

Alex Wong, Partner at Boyu Capital, described the partnership as “a shared belief in the strength of the Starbucks brand and a commitment to local innovation and customer connection.”

Starbucks’ decision follows months of speculation since late 2024 about a potential sale of its China division. The move comes as the company continues to recover from pandemic-era declines, reporting four consecutive quarters of growth in 2025. In its fiscal fourth quarter ending September 28, 2025, Starbucks recorded $831.6 million in China sales, a 6 percent increase year on year.

With this new alliance, Starbucks seeks to reinforce its market leadership amid mounting competition from domestic rivals such as Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee—companies that have gained ground with value-driven strategies and aggressive store rollouts.

RAW Coffee Expands to Dubai Creek with Radisson Blu Partnership

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

Dubai’s pioneering specialty coffee roaster, RAW Coffee Company, has announced a new partnership with Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, introducing its signature specialty coffee experience to one of the city’s most historic and culturally rich destinations — the Dubai Creek.

The collaboration brings RAW’s craftsmanship and modern coffee culture to Boulevard Gourmet, the hotel’s ground-floor café, which has been redesigned to reflect RAW’s signature aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere. The refreshed space blends heritage and contemporary design, offering visitors a place where the old spirit of Dubai meets the city’s vibrant modern lifestyle.

Guests can enjoy a full espresso bar, hand-brewed single origins, a cold brew and matcha menu, as well as RAW’s best-selling iced teas, smoothies, and frappes. The food menu, curated by Radisson Blu’s culinary team, complements RAW’s beverage expertise and reflects the hotel’s reputation for quality and hospitality.

Kim Thompson, Founder and Managing Director of RAW Coffee Company, said: “Dubai Creek is where the city’s story began — a place rooted in trade, culture, and connection. Bringing specialty coffee here feels like coming full circle for us as a local brand. We’re excited to serve a community that values authenticity and craft, and to share the RAW experience in one of Dubai’s most historic neighbourhoods.”

Lahcen Saadaoui, Hotel Manager at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, added: “Partnering with RAW Coffee Company allows us to offer guests and visitors something truly special — exceptional coffee in a setting that celebrates the spirit of old Dubai. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to quality, creativity, and delivering experiences that bring people together.”

With both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the Creek, the café provides a tranquil space to relax while taking in views of Dubai’s maritime heritage. The partnership embodies a harmony of tradition and innovation — creating an authentic Dubai experience for residents and visitors alike.

About RAW Coffee Company
Founded in 2007 by Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood, RAW Coffee Company is Dubai’s first homegrown specialty coffee roastery, known for its ethical sourcing, sustainable practices, and premium roasting standards. With nearly two decades of leadership in the Middle East’s specialty coffee movement, RAW continues to champion fair trade principles and quality across every step of the coffee journey.

RAW’s portfolio includes:

RAW Coffee Company – the flagship roastery and café.

ReadyRAW – premium ready-to-drink cold brews.

Fundamental by RAW – micro-lot and limited-edition coffees.

Rocket Fuel – high-energy specialty coffee blends.

RAW was named BBC Good Food’s Homegrown Roastery UAE Winner 2022 and recognized by Dubai Economy & Tourism for its contributions to the local F&B industry.