Arabic Coffee

Arabic coffee in the United Arab Emirates is, as in other Gulf and Arab countries, considered a symbol of the generosity attributed to the citizens of the UAE, representing an important aspect of cordial hospitality to the extent that it has become an authentic national tradition, and one of the characters of the esteemed Emirati personality around the world. 

The great significance of Arabic coffee as an eternal emblem in authentic Emirati and Gulf heritage is proven as a fixed and unique element on Arab tables in all of their states and on all occasions, with its aroma capable of inundating one’s self with delight, comfort and satisfaction, attracting members of every segment of society around the clock. This lure and attraction is increased to the extent that it is said that the welcoming and honouring of guests remains incomplete without serving coffee, even if they are given a banquet in their honour. This is in addition to the other signs of hospitality to which they are entitled; notably a welcoming and warm reception, with all appropriate gestures of honour, which is summed up by the following Bedouin saying: ‘When a guest comes he’s a prince. When he sits, he’s a prisoner. When he leaves he’s a poet.’

A guest who is not offered coffee may feel disrespected, imagining that their host has not observed their due duty towards them and has not paid them the full respect they deserve.

Tradition have gone far in giving coffee a distinguished social status, as they have made drinking a cup of coffee a sign of tolerance and reconciliation between disputants, and recognition of acceptance of all agreed-upon demands. Letting a guest leave without serving them a cup of coffee is evidence of the continuation of the dispute, and an indicator of the disgrace of the host, who should have been more cordial to their guests. This is soon spread among members of the tribe or community, as this contradicts the host’s social standing and sense of belonging.

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