Tag: Saudi Arabia

Indonesia Expands Coffee Exports with New Shipment to Saudi Arabia

Posted on by Qahwa World

JAKARTA – Qahwa World

Indonesia has expanded its coffee export market with a new shipment of premium Arabica beans from the slopes of Mount Argopuro in East Java to Saudi Arabia, marking another milestone for the country’s growing smallholder coffee sector.

The shipment, totaling 15 tons and valued at around 3 billion rupiah (approximately 180,000 U.S. dollars), reflects Indonesia’s continued effort to strengthen its position in the global coffee trade and promote the role of micro, small, and medium enterprises in international markets. The consignment was officially dispatched on Monday, in a move hailed by government officials as a success story for local farmers and entrepreneurs.

Bagus Rachman, Deputy for Business Affairs at Indonesia’s Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, said the export from Mount Argopuro demonstrates the competitiveness of Indonesian MSMEs on the global stage. He emphasized that more than 90 percent of the nation’s coffee plantations are managed by smallholder farmers, who have become the backbone of Indonesia’s coffee production and export activities. Rachman described the Argopuro shipment as a model of how medium-scale enterprises can become a driving force within the MSME ecosystem, creating added value and expanding export capacity.

According to Statistics Indonesia, the country’s coffee exports rose from 279.94 million kilograms in 2023 to 316.72 million kilograms in 2024, underscoring steady growth despite challenges from fluctuating prices and global demand pressures. East Java, where Mount Argopuro is located, remains one of Indonesia’s key coffee-producing regions, known for high-altitude Arabica beans characterized by their clean cup, moderate acidity, and distinct aroma.

Local officials in Situbondo Regency, the region surrounding Mount Argopuro, praised the export as a breakthrough for community-based farmer groups that have invested in quality improvement and post-harvest processing. They highlighted that Argopuro’s elevation, reaching about 1,800 meters above sea level, contributes to its unique flavor profile, making it increasingly sought after in Middle Eastern and Asian markets. The local government also called for stronger support programs to encourage youth participation in coffee farming and ensure long-term sustainability of production.

Data from Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade shows that the country exported coffee, tea, and related products worth more than 16 million U.S. dollars to Saudi Arabia in 2023. The new shipment from East Java is expected to deepen trade relations between the two nations, opening opportunities for future collaboration in the premium and specialty coffee segments. Saudi Arabia has become an emerging destination for Indonesian agricultural products, reflecting growing demand for high-quality Arabica beans in the region’s expanding coffee industry.

Industry observers say the success of this shipment could inspire similar initiatives across Indonesia’s coffee-growing provinces, including Aceh, North Sumatra, and South Sulawesi, where MSMEs are working to boost exports of specialty varieties. The government’s ongoing push to promote downstream processing, improve logistics, and introduce value-added branding is seen as essential to enhancing Indonesia’s competitiveness in international markets.

Indonesia, the world’s fourth-largest coffee producer, has long been known for its diverse range of beans, from Sumatra Mandheling to Java and Toraja. With global demand for Arabica and Robusta continuing to rise, initiatives like the Argopuro export are expected to help the country expand its share of premium coffee markets, create higher income for farmers, and reinforce Indonesia’s image as a leading origin in the world of coffee.

Saudi Arabia’s Coffee Shops: From “Al-Zuhour” to a Billion-Riyal Industry under Vision 2030

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Dubai – August 22, 2025 (Qahwa World) – Coffee in Saudi Arabia is no longer just a morning ritual or a social beverage. It has transformed into a thriving industry aligned with Vision 2030, drawing local and international investment. According to figures reported by Al-Eqtisadiah, the Saudi coffee market was valued between SAR 5 and 7 billion in 2024, growing at an annual rate of more than 5%. Saudis consume around 80,000 tons of coffee beans annually, which translates to 36.5 million cups every day.

Saudi Arabia’s café culture dates back to the mid-20th century. One of the earliest modern cafés, “Al-Zuhour,” opened in Riyadh in 1954. At the time, Yemeni-style cafés, serving coffee alongside tea, shisha, and food, were more prominent. By the 1960s and 1970s, cafés became more widespread, only to face setbacks during the 1980s due to social restrictions.

With the dawn of the new millennium, internet cafés marked the beginning of a new chapter. These spaces quickly evolved into modern cafés, catering to a young population—70% of Saudis are under 35. This demographic shift laid the foundation for today’s café boom, where establishments are not only places for leisure but also venues for cultural and artistic events.

Coffee and Vision 2030

Vision 2030 treats coffee as more than a beverage. It is seen as part of Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity and as a driver of economic diversification. In 2022, the Ministry of Culture declared the “Year of Saudi Coffee,” while also adopting the official term “Saudi Coffee” instead of “Arabic Coffee” in restaurants, cafés, and retail outlets.

This move carried strong symbolic value, reaffirming coffee’s deep cultural roots in the Kingdom. It also boosted international recognition through festivals, exhibitions, and promotional campaigns, positioning Saudi coffee as both a cultural marker and an economic asset.

To build on this momentum, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) launched the Saudi Coffee Company in 2022, with a SAR 1.2 billion (USD 320 million) investment plan over ten years. The company’s mission is to develop a full value chain—from cultivating beans in the southern regions, particularly Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, to processing, roasting, marketing, and exporting.

The plan includes planting 5 million coffee trees by 2030, raising domestic production from 800 tons annually to over 10,000 tons. A major milestone is the construction of a factory in Jazan with a capacity of 27,000 tons per year, including 9,000 tons of roasted coffee, with scalability for future expansion. This facility is expected to be a cornerstone for local industry growth and international market entry.

Cafés now account for 16% of Saudi Arabia’s food service sector, which reached SAR 17 billion in 2024. The Ministry of Commerce reports that by mid-2025, there were 61,000 commercial licenses for cafés, including 27,000 for traditional coffee shops.

On the brand front, competition is fierce. Local chain Barn’s leads the market with more than 800 outlets, followed by Dunkin’ with over 600, and Starbucks with more than 450. Kyan Café has expanded to over 270 locations, Coffee Address to 234, while Dr. Café maintains a strong presence with more than 100 outlets. This mix of homegrown and global brands reflects the Kingdom’s dynamic market and consumer demand.

From History to Today’s Transformation

Historically, coffeehouses worldwide were intellectual and social hubs—whether in Istanbul in 1475, Cairo’s famed El Fishawy café that hosted writers like Naguib Mahfouz, or the European coffeehouses that played roles in politics and literature.

In Saudi Arabia, the transformation has been unique. From Al-Zuhour in the 1950s to today’s modern coffeehouses, these spaces now serve as cultural platforms as much as commercial ventures. They host poetry readings, art exhibitions, and social events, aligning with a broader national vision to diversify entertainment and cultural offerings.

Long considered a “drink for the mood,” coffee in Saudi Arabia is now firmly embedded in the economic landscape. It is part of a broader narrative that blends heritage and modernity. Between the millions of cups consumed daily, the government-backed Saudi Coffee Company’s ambitious investments, and the strong presence of global and local brands, coffee has become a pillar of both identity and growth.

From its modest beginnings in a small Riyadh café seven decades ago to today’s billion-riyal industry, Saudi coffee tells a story of transformation. It is no longer only about flavor and tradition, but also about culture, business, and the country’s ambition to position itself as a key player in the global coffee economy.

Coffee Planet Expands in Saudi Arabia with New Coffee Shop in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District

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Riyadh, 22 August 2025 (QahwaWorld) – Coffee Planet has officially inaugurated its newest coffee shop in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), marking an important milestone in the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional specialty coffee experiences across the Kingdom.

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Coffee Planet’s Chairman, W. Allan Jones, adding a special and distinguished touch to the occasion.

This achievement was made possible through the continued support of Coffee Planet’s strategic partner, HB Brands, as both companies work hand in hand to provide high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee to wider communities in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

The new opening reflects Coffee Planet’s dedication to creating inspiring spaces where coffee lovers can enjoy unique experiences. The company expressed gratitude to its teams, partners, and loyal customers, whose support makes every cup possible.

Coffee Planet reaffirmed its determination to continue its journey of growth and excellence, one cup at a time.

Founded in 2005 in the United Arab Emirates, Coffee Planet began with a vision to transform the local coffee landscape by introducing the finest Arabica beans from around the world. From the very start, the company focused on quality roasting and innovation, establishing itself as a pioneer in specialty coffee.

The journey started with supplying freshly roasted Arabica coffee at highway fuel stations, before rapidly expanding into five-star hotels, airlines, catering companies, and offices. In 2008, Coffee Planet opened its Dubai roastery, gaining full control over the roasting process of its specialty blends and single-origin coffees. This laid the foundation for its retail growth across the UAE and GCC, followed by international franchising of its café concept.

Today, Coffee Planet stands as a multi-million-dollar success story, recognized both through its own brand and private-label roasting for leading global companies, while remaining committed to growth, sustainability, and making 100% Arabica specialty coffee accessible to all.

Saudi’s Barn’s Plans to Open 1000 Stores in the Kingdom and Globally by 2030

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The Saudi coffee chain, Barn’s, a drive-thru coffee chain, has announced plans to open 1000 branches in Saudi Arabia and around the world.

Barn’s achieved a significant milestone by reaching 700 stores across Saudi Arabia, with the opening of a new location in the vibrant commercial area of Town Square in Jeddah.

This achievement marks a significant turning point for the Al Amjaad Group-owned brand, which aims to expand its presence to 800 stores by the end of 2024 and ultimately reach 1000 stores worldwide by 2030.

In addition to strengthening its presence in Saudi Arabia, known as the largest market for branded coffee shops in the Middle East, Barn’s is preparing to embark on its international journey.

Following its expected debut in Bahrain in the first quarter of 2024, the coffee chain looks forward to global expansion across at least 10 markets.

Thanks to a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Chain Consulting Oman, Barn’s is preparing to enter the Omani market while actively exploring opportunities in Egypt and the UAE.

Furthermore, a strategic franchise agreement with Premier Fine Foods in Malaysia indicates ambitious plans for Barn’s to launch 300 stores across Southeast Asia over the next decade.

At the same time, anticipation is building for Barn’s entry into the United States and Europe.

The MoU signed with Abu Dhabi-based UrbanTrade International in August 2023 paved the way for the brand’s launch in the US, with New York emerging as a potential flagship location.

In Europe, the UK is considered a key market for Barn’s global expansion plans, with the brand initially aiming to open 10 stores in London, while the broader European market is seen as fertile ground for growth, as highlighted during the Paris Franchise Expo in March 2024.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia signed an international coffee agreement 2022

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20 February 2024, London, (QW): The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia made history today, signing the International Coffee Agreement (ICA) 2022 at the International Coffee Organization (ICO) headquarters in London.

This is the first time the country has formally joined the ICO world coffee family, whose history spans 60 years.

Attending the ceremony were representatives from the Saudi Embassy in London and HRH Prince Khalid Bin Bandar Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the United Kingdom, who signed the trade treaty.

Under the ICA 2022, governments, in collaboration with the private sector and civil society, will come
together to determine initiatives that support a more prosperous and sustainable future for stakeholders within the global coffee value chain.

Coffee is deeply woven into the fabric of life in Saudi Arabia. Historically, it was cultivated by the ancient tribes of Khawlan who lend their name to the prized Khawlani coffee typical of the Jazan region, the cultivation practices of which are inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

As for consumption, the country’s habits represent a blend of modernity and tradition, where the buzz of state-of-the-art espresso machines in Riyadh’s coffee outlets intertwines with the comforting echoes of ancestral practices in homes across the nation. Saudis embrace both international coffee trends and authentic qahwa, often flavoured with cardamom and poured into small ornate cups called finjan. For many, the serving of the beverage is a distinctive cultural ritual and a symbol of the Kingdom’s rich history and hospitality.

ICO Executive Director Vanúsia Nogueira said:“We are honoured to welcome Saudi Arabia as a signatory to the ICA 2022 and hope that this will bring a unique new flavour to our global community. Together in the spirit of international cooperation, we celebrate the diversity of coffee traditions and jointly undertake to safeguard, promote, and sustain the sector. I am sure that our collaboration will thrive as we foster a future where we continue to savour the richness of coffee while advocating for all aspects of sustainability”.

On signing the Agreement, HRH Prince Khalid Bin Bandar Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud commented: “This is a remarkable day for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as we join the International Coffee Organization.

For years, people of Saudi Arabia enjoyed the delights of traditional Arabic coffee, which has a 600 years history and is still regarded as a hallmark of Arabian hospitality today, and is inextricably linked to traditional identity.

The coffee sector in Saudi Arabia is growing fast and is an important part of our plans for the future and the change we wish to bring to our country as it contributes to diversifying the national economy. Public Investment Fund (PIF) launched the Saudi Coffee Company in May 2022, which is investing 319$ million over the next ten years to support the growth of the national coffee industry, with the goal of boosting the country’s production from 300 tons per year to 2500 tons per year, and focusing on achieving sustainability, across the production, distribution and marketing aspects of the coffee supply chain. We see ICO, and this updated agreement, as a key to achieving our hopes and ambitions for the coffee industry locally and globally, and we look forward to working with colleagues at ICO to secure a positive and thriving future for coffee in the years and decades to come.”

Saudi Shada Mountains’ Timeless Coffee Legacy: A Fragrant Brew from 150-Year-Old Trees

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In the highlands of Al-Baha, the Shada mountains enchant with the captivating aroma of coffee wafting through the air. Nestled on Shada Al-Asfal and Shada Al-Ala, coffee shrubs yield a distinct bean that has become a highly sought-after commodity in the country.

These mountains host farms boasting over 54,000 trees, collectively producing more than 12 tons of coffee annually. In this thriving enterprise, over 280 farmers contribute to the cultivation, according to statistics from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture branch in Baha.

As part of a mountain range surrounded by low plains and valleys, the twin peaks of Shada Al-Ala and Shada Al-Asfal stand as the highest in the Tihama plain. Reaching elevations of 2,200 meters and 1,500 meters, respectively, these mountains serve as the backdrop for the cultivation of various crops, with coffee reigning as the primary one.

The care for the coffee trees is remarkable, employing innovative methods such as collecting rainwater in hollow rocks strung together to resemble tanks, as highlighted by Ali Al-Ghamdi, the owner of a farm on Shada Al-Asfal mountain, where 700 Shada coffee trees thrive under meticulous care.

Shada coffee, priced between SR100 ($26) and SR150 per kilogram, bridges tradition and modernity, with trees that have stood for over 150 years still yielding coffee. Abdullah Al-Shadawi tends to around 300 of these ancient trees, following in the farming footsteps of his ancestors, emphasizing the significant yield due to the fertile soil.

Fahad Al-Zahrani, director of the ministry’s Baha region, underscores the government’s substantial support for farmers, distributing 80 liters of insecticides annually and implementing a reclamation project for agricultural terraces on both mountains. With 125 agricultural terrace reservoirs established, the ministry’s Coffee City project in the north of Baha covers 1.6 million square meters, aiming to create 1,000 jobs and ensure the cultivation of 300,000 coffee trees. The Shada Mountains stand not just as a geographic marvel but as a testament to a timeless coffee legacy.