10 Best Coffee Shops in Dubai for Specialty Coffee and Work
- 10 handpicked places
- Nobody paid to be on this list
- Updated 22 Oct 2026
This guide ranks Dubai’s most useful cafés for specialty coffee, quiet work sessions, roasteries and stylish design-led spaces. We picked 10 places that balance coffee quality with specific needs like remote work or bean shopping. Each entry explains who the spot suits and what to expect. Use the ranking to find the right café for your morning or afternoon.
Why Dubai has strong coffee options
Dubai offers a wide range of coffee experiences, from minimal specialty labs to design-led courtyards. The city supports both quick, stylish stops and long, quiet work sessions. You can find roasteries that sell beans and cafés focused on pastry or outdoor seating.
- Specialty coffee focus
- Design-led interiors
- Roasteries and beans
- Work-friendly seating
- Outdoor terrace options
The shortlist: 10 Coffee Shops in Dubai for Specialty Coffee and Work
The 10 best coffee shops in Dubai
- #1Best overall coffee shop
1. The Espresso Lab
98/100BEST OF scoreDubai Design DistrictSpecialty coffee shop
Our verdict
The Espresso Lab made this list because it prioritises the cup over the décor.
- A balanced first visit to specialty coffee
- Price
- AED 25–80 per person
- Location
- Mag warehouse Unit S04-104 Al Quoz Logistics Park
BEST OF editorial
It sits in Dubai Design District and focuses on specialty beans. The price range is AED 25 to 80 per person. This makes it a serious option for those who care about quality. It offers a calm and minimal atmosphere. You will not find the loud energy of a busy café here. The focus remains on the coffee itself. It stands out for its commitment to origin and authenticity. The beans are selected with care.
This is a place for the drink, not just the setting. It suits a first visit to specialty coffee. The balanced approach works for most palates. You do not need to be an expert to appreciate it. The space is quiet and focused. It is not a place for large groups or long meetings. The menu is tight and specific. The experience is about the brew. It is a straightforward choice for a good cup.
The BEST OF brief- Best forA balanced first visit to specialty coffee.
- Don’t missExpect to spend between AED 25 and 80 per person
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a loud, social atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from our profile
1. The Espresso Lab
Best overall coffee shopBEST OF score98/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictThe Espresso Lab made this list because it prioritises the cup over the décor.
- Style
- Specialty coffee shop
- Location
- Mag warehouse Unit S04-104 Al Quoz Logistics Park
- Price
- AED 25–80 per person
BEST OF editorial
It sits in Dubai Design District and focuses on specialty beans. The price range is AED 25 to 80 per person. This makes it a serious option for those who care about quality. It offers a calm and minimal atmosphere. You will not find the loud energy of a busy café here. The focus remains on the coffee itself. It stands out for its commitment to origin and authenticity. The beans are selected with care.
This is a place for the drink, not just the setting. It suits a first visit to specialty coffee. The balanced approach works for most palates. You do not need to be an expert to appreciate it. The space is quiet and focused. It is not a place for large groups or long meetings. The menu is tight and specific. The experience is about the brew. It is a straightforward choice for a good cup.
The BEST OF brief- Best forA balanced first visit to specialty coffee.
- Don’t missExpect to spend between AED 25 and 80 per person
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a loud, social atmosphere
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from our profile
- Nightjar Coffee Roasters1 / 4Best espresso
2. Nightjar Coffee Roasters
97/100BEST OF scoreAlserkal Avenue, Al QuozEspresso bar
Our verdict
Nightjar earns its spot for serious espresso made in a creative Alserkal Avenue setting.
- Coffee lovers seeking strong espresso and a creative, artistic atmosphere
- Price
- AED 40–120 per person
- Open
- Mon 08:00 to 23:00; Tue to Thu 08:00 to 21:00; Fri to Sun 08:00 to 23:00
- Location
- Alserkal Avenue Arts & Cultural District - Warehouse G62
BEST OF editorial
The roastery operates inside the arts district, giving it an independent feel distinct from the standard mall cafés on this list. They roast and brew their own beans on site, ensuring a direct trade approach that sets the quality bar high for short, strong coffees. This place suits those who want a bold cup with a side of culture. The menu is designed by Executive Chef Ved Suhas, offering real food until late hours. It is a good choice if you prefer a vibrant, artistic atmosphere over a quiet work environment. The roastery is open Monday to Friday, so plan your visit accordingly if you are coming on a weekend.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee lovers seeking strong espresso and a creative, artistic atmosphere.
- Don’t missOrder a short, strong espresso from their on-site roastery
- Good to knowRoastery open Monday to FridayReal food served until late hours
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Brunch in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those needing a quiet, work-friendly space or weekend access
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
2. Nightjar Coffee Roasters
Best espressoNightjar Coffee Roasters1 of 4BEST OF score97/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictNightjar earns its spot for serious espresso made in a creative Alserkal Avenue setting.
- Style
- Espresso bar
- Location
- Alserkal Avenue Arts & Cultural District - Warehouse G62
- Price
- AED 40–120 per person
- Hours
- Mon 08:00 to 23:00; Tue to Thu 08:00 to 21:00; Fri to Sun 08:00 to 23:00
BEST OF editorial
The roastery operates inside the arts district, giving it an independent feel distinct from the standard mall cafés on this list. They roast and brew their own beans on site, ensuring a direct trade approach that sets the quality bar high for short, strong coffees. This place suits those who want a bold cup with a side of culture. The menu is designed by Executive Chef Ved Suhas, offering real food until late hours. It is a good choice if you prefer a vibrant, artistic atmosphere over a quiet work environment. The roastery is open Monday to Friday, so plan your visit accordingly if you are coming on a weekend.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee lovers seeking strong espresso and a creative, artistic atmosphere.
- Don’t missOrder a short, strong espresso from their on-site roastery
- Good to knowRoastery open Monday to FridayReal food served until late hours
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Brunch in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those needing a quiet, work-friendly space or weekend access
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- % Arabica1 / 4Best filter coffee
3. % Arabica
96/100BEST OF scoreFilter-coffee café
Our verdict
The beans are roasted fresh in the store, a detail that sets the filter coffee apart from the pre-ground options at other cafés on this list.
- Coffee lovers who want to watch beans roasted fresh in-store
- Open
- Mon 07:00 to 01:00; Tue to Fri 07:00 to 00:00; Sat and Sun 07:00 to 01:00
- Location
- Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Al Mustaqbal StreetCity Walk II
BEST OF editorial
The brand started serving coffee in the UAE ten years ago, building a consistent presence across the city. This focus on fresh roasting supports the single-origin tasting that defines the menu here. Choose this spot if you want a quick, stylish stop for a specific single-origin pour. It is not the place for a long, quiet work session, as the design prioritises speed and visual appeal. The app allows you to order ahead, which helps avoid the queue during busy hours.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee lovers who want to watch beans roasted fresh in-store.
- A proper dinner
- Don’t missAsk for beans roasted fresh on the Tornado King machine
- Good to knowOpen daily 7 AM to 12 AM at the City Walk flagship
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai number 1 of 138
- Best Matcha in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a quiet, work-focused environment
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
3. % Arabica
Best filter coffee% Arabica1 of 4BEST OF score96/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictThe beans are roasted fresh in the store, a detail that sets the filter coffee apart from the pre-ground options at other cafés on this list.
- Style
- Filter-coffee café
- Location
- Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Al Mustaqbal StreetCity Walk II
- Hours
- Mon 07:00 to 01:00; Tue to Fri 07:00 to 00:00; Sat and Sun 07:00 to 01:00
BEST OF editorial
The brand started serving coffee in the UAE ten years ago, building a consistent presence across the city. This focus on fresh roasting supports the single-origin tasting that defines the menu here. Choose this spot if you want a quick, stylish stop for a specific single-origin pour. It is not the place for a long, quiet work session, as the design prioritises speed and visual appeal. The app allows you to order ahead, which helps avoid the queue during busy hours.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee lovers who want to watch beans roasted fresh in-store.
- A proper dinner
- Don’t missAsk for beans roasted fresh on the Tornado King machine
- Good to knowOpen daily 7 AM to 12 AM at the City Walk flagship
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai number 1 of 138
- Best Matcha in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Those seeking a quiet, work-focused environment
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- RAW Coffee Company1 / 4Best roastery
4. RAW Coffee Company
95/100BEST OF scoreAl QuozCoffee roastery
Our verdict
RAW Coffee Company ranks 4th because it operates as a full roastery in Al Quoz, not just a cafe.
- Coffee enthusiasts wanting beans and brewing gear
- Price
- AED 30–120 per person
- Open
- Daily 07:30 to 18:00
- Location
- Warehouse Next to RTA Carpark WH10, Cnr 7A and 4A Street
BEST OF editorial
The founders, Kim and Matt, are New Zealanders who built this as a UAE startup. They source beans directly and roast them locally. Their site lists specific origins like Ugandan Elgon Anaerobic Natural. This differs from the espresso focus of Nightjar or the filter focus of % Arabica. You can buy brewing gear here, including Rocket espresso machines and Eureka grinders. The shop sells items ranging from AED 1 to AED 923. It is the place to go if you want to understand the supply chain.
The vibe is industrial and focused on the product itself. This spot suits coffee enthusiasts who want to buy beans and equipment. It is less about sitting with a laptop than Boon Coffee. It is more about the craft of roasting. The cafe opens daily from 7:30am to 6:00pm. The office operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. They do not normally take bookings for the cafe. If you have a large group, you should call them first. They also offer event hosting services for private parties.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee enthusiasts wanting beans and brewing gear.
- Don’t missUgandan Elgon Anaerobic Natural coffee beans
- Good to knowCafe open daily 7:30am-6:00pmOffice Mon-Fri 8am-5pmNo bookings for large groups
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Brunch in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Visitors seeking a quiet spot to work on a laptop
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
4. RAW Coffee Company
Best roasteryRAW Coffee Company1 of 4BEST OF score95/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictRAW Coffee Company ranks 4th because it operates as a full roastery in Al Quoz, not just a cafe.
- Style
- Coffee roastery
- Location
- Warehouse Next to RTA Carpark WH10, Cnr 7A and 4A Street
- Price
- AED 30–120 per person
- Hours
- Daily 07:30 to 18:00
BEST OF editorial
The founders, Kim and Matt, are New Zealanders who built this as a UAE startup. They source beans directly and roast them locally. Their site lists specific origins like Ugandan Elgon Anaerobic Natural. This differs from the espresso focus of Nightjar or the filter focus of % Arabica. You can buy brewing gear here, including Rocket espresso machines and Eureka grinders. The shop sells items ranging from AED 1 to AED 923. It is the place to go if you want to understand the supply chain.
The vibe is industrial and focused on the product itself. This spot suits coffee enthusiasts who want to buy beans and equipment. It is less about sitting with a laptop than Boon Coffee. It is more about the craft of roasting. The cafe opens daily from 7:30am to 6:00pm. The office operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm. They do not normally take bookings for the cafe. If you have a large group, you should call them first. They also offer event hosting services for private parties.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee enthusiasts wanting beans and brewing gear.
- Don’t missUgandan Elgon Anaerobic Natural coffee beans
- Good to knowCafe open daily 7:30am-6:00pmOffice Mon-Fri 8am-5pmNo bookings for large groups
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Brunch in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Visitors seeking a quiet spot to work on a laptop
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- Boon Coffee1 / 3Best work-friendly spot
5. Boon Coffee
94/100BEST OF scoreMultiple Dubai locationsLaptop-friendly café
Our verdict
Boon Coffee earned its place on this list for its practical layout and consistent supply chain.
- Remote workers needing a long, quiet session
- Price
- AED 30–100 per person
- Location
- Office 910, 1 - Lake Plaza, Cluster T, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, AE
BEST OF editorial
Founded in 2012 by Orit Mohammed, the brand operates 12 cafés across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Unlike the single-location roasters on this list, Boon offers a wide network for remote workers. The founder’s family grew coffee in Ethiopia, and the brand sources Arabica beans from that region. This direct link to origin shapes the menu’s focus on fresh, local roasting.
This spot suits people who need a long, quiet session with a laptop. It is less about a quick espresso and more about settling in for hours. The Mall of the Emirates location offers a bistro-style menu alongside the coffee. If you prefer a dedicated roastery experience, RAW Coffee Company is a better fit. Boon works best when you need a reliable, multi-location option for daily work breaks.
The BEST OF brief- Best forRemote workers needing a long, quiet session.
- The chef’s cooking
- Homegrown
- Don’t missSingle origin Kaffa coffee, from AED 47.00
- Good to knowMall of the Emirates café open daily 10 am to 10 pm
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: If you want a single-origin tasting menu
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
5. Boon Coffee
Best work-friendly spotBoon Coffee1 of 3BEST OF score94/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictBoon Coffee earned its place on this list for its practical layout and consistent supply chain.
- Style
- Laptop-friendly café
- Location
- Office 910, 1 - Lake Plaza, Cluster T, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, AE
- Price
- AED 30–100 per person
BEST OF editorial
Founded in 2012 by Orit Mohammed, the brand operates 12 cafés across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Unlike the single-location roasters on this list, Boon offers a wide network for remote workers. The founder’s family grew coffee in Ethiopia, and the brand sources Arabica beans from that region. This direct link to origin shapes the menu’s focus on fresh, local roasting.
This spot suits people who need a long, quiet session with a laptop. It is less about a quick espresso and more about settling in for hours. The Mall of the Emirates location offers a bistro-style menu alongside the coffee. If you prefer a dedicated roastery experience, RAW Coffee Company is a better fit. Boon works best when you need a reliable, multi-location option for daily work breaks.
The BEST OF brief- Best forRemote workers needing a long, quiet session.
- The chef’s cooking
- Homegrown
- Don’t missSingle origin Kaffa coffee, from AED 47.00
- Good to knowMall of the Emirates café open daily 10 am to 10 pm
- On the leaderboards
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: If you want a single-origin tasting menu
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- #6Best pastries
6. Brew Café
93/100BEST OF scoreUmm SuqeimBakery coffee shop
Our verdict
Brew Café made this list for its pastries, which stand out among the coffee shops in Umm Suqeim.
- Coffee and pastry lovers who want a calm, simple setting
- Price
- AED 25–80 per person
- Location
- Umm Suqeim
BEST OF editorial
It is a bakery coffee shop where the food gets as much attention as the drink. The space is smaller than the larger roasteries on this list, focusing on doing the basics well. What's On Dubai describes the coffee as consistently superb, a claim that holds up against the other specialty picks here. The simple white aesthetic creates a calm environment, distinct from the busier neighbourhood stops nearby.
This is the place to go when you want a quiet cup and a good pastry without the crowd. It suits readers who prefer a laid-back atmosphere over a busy café scene. The terrace offers a spot to sit outside, which is a nice change from the indoor-only options on this list. If you are looking for a large group space or a loud social hub, look elsewhere. This is a spot for a calm morning or a slow afternoon.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee and pastry lovers who want a calm, simple setting.
- Don’t missThe matcha on the menu, available on the terrace
- Good to knowPrice range is AED 25 to 80 per person
Look elsewhere if: Groups seeking a large, busy social space
6. Brew Café
Best pastriesBEST OF score93/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictBrew Café made this list for its pastries, which stand out among the coffee shops in Umm Suqeim.
MapSave- Style
- Bakery coffee shop
- Location
- Umm Suqeim, Dubai
- Price
- AED 25–80 per person
BEST OF editorial
It is a bakery coffee shop where the food gets as much attention as the drink. The space is smaller than the larger roasteries on this list, focusing on doing the basics well. What's On Dubai describes the coffee as consistently superb, a claim that holds up against the other specialty picks here. The simple white aesthetic creates a calm environment, distinct from the busier neighbourhood stops nearby.
This is the place to go when you want a quiet cup and a good pastry without the crowd. It suits readers who prefer a laid-back atmosphere over a busy café scene. The terrace offers a spot to sit outside, which is a nice change from the indoor-only options on this list. If you are looking for a large group space or a loud social hub, look elsewhere. This is a spot for a calm morning or a slow afternoon.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee and pastry lovers who want a calm, simple setting.
- Don’t missThe matcha on the menu, available on the terrace
- Good to knowPrice range is AED 25 to 80 per person
Look elsewhere if: Groups seeking a large, busy social space
- #7Best outdoor seating
7. Saddle Café
92/100BEST OF scoreMultiple Dubai locationsTerrace café
Our verdict
Saddle Café makes this list for its terrace spaces, which stand out among the indoor-heavy picks here.
- Coffee and snacks on a terrace during cool mornings
- Price
- AED 40–140 per person
- Location
- Multiple Dubai locations
BEST OF editorial
It is one of Dubai’s most recognisable lifestyle cafés, known for polished branding and an easy casual-high-end feel. Unlike the roastery-focused or design-led spots on this list, Saddle offers a consistent multi-location presence with a specific focus on outdoor dining. The price range of AED 40, 140 per person covers specialty drinks and breakfast bites, positioning it as a premium casual stop rather than a budget option.
Choose this spot for cool-weather mornings when you want coffee plus a snack in a pretty setting. It suits readers who value a polished, casual-high-end atmosphere over single-origin roasting or architectural design. The multiple locations mean you can find a terrace near you, but the experience relies on the outdoor space being open and pleasant.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee and snacks on a terrace during cool mornings.
- Don’t missChoose a location that suits your area, as it has multiple Dubai sites
- Good to knowPrices range from AED 40 to AED 140 per person
Look elsewhere if: You want a dedicated roastery or a quiet work space
7. Saddle Café
Best outdoor seatingBEST OF score92/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictSaddle Café makes this list for its terrace spaces, which stand out among the indoor-heavy picks here.
MapSave- Style
- Terrace café
- Location
- Multiple Dubai locations, Dubai
- Price
- AED 40–140 per person
BEST OF editorial
It is one of Dubai’s most recognisable lifestyle cafés, known for polished branding and an easy casual-high-end feel. Unlike the roastery-focused or design-led spots on this list, Saddle offers a consistent multi-location presence with a specific focus on outdoor dining. The price range of AED 40, 140 per person covers specialty drinks and breakfast bites, positioning it as a premium casual stop rather than a budget option.
Choose this spot for cool-weather mornings when you want coffee plus a snack in a pretty setting. It suits readers who value a polished, casual-high-end atmosphere over single-origin roasting or architectural design. The multiple locations mean you can find a terrace near you, but the experience relies on the outdoor space being open and pleasant.
The BEST OF brief- Best forCoffee and snacks on a terrace during cool mornings.
- Don’t missChoose a location that suits your area, as it has multiple Dubai sites
- Good to knowPrices range from AED 40 to AED 140 per person
Look elsewhere if: You want a dedicated roastery or a quiet work space
- Boston Lane
1 / 4Best design8. Boston Lane
91/100BEST OF scoreThe Courtyard, Al QuozDesign-led café
Our verdict
Boston Lane earns its spot for the room itself.
- A stylish catch-up in a green, design-led space
- Price
- AED 40–120 per person
- Open
- Daily 07:30 to 19:00
- Location
- Courtyard 25 - 4B St
BEST OF editorial
The Courtyard in Al Quoz Creative Zone hosts a space that mixes rustic earthy features with lush greenery. This look stands apart from the glossy interiors of The Espresso Lab or % Arabica. The menu supports the vibe with a paratha, labneh, hot honey and zaatar for AED 28. It is a design-led café that prioritises the setting over speed.
It suits a stylish catch-up where you want to sit and talk. The price range sits between AED 40 and 120 per person. You will find a softer neighbourhood atmosphere here. It is not the place for a quick espresso shot. Choose it for a relaxed morning or a casual lunch in Al Quoz.
The BEST OF brief- Best forA stylish catch-up in a green, design-led space.
- The chef’s cooking
- Breakfast
- Somewhere quiet
- Weekends
- Don’t missParatha with labneh, hot honey and zaatar, AED 28
- Good to knowBreakfast is served all dayPrices range from AED 40 to 120 per person
- Vegetarian options
- On the leaderboards
- Best Pubs in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Tacos in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: You need a fast espresso or a quiet work desk
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
8. Boston Lane
Best designBoston Lane1 of 4BEST OF score91/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictBoston Lane earns its spot for the room itself.
- Style
- Design-led café
- Location
- Courtyard 25 - 4B St
- Price
- AED 40–120 per person
- Hours
- Daily 07:30 to 19:00
BEST OF editorial
The Courtyard in Al Quoz Creative Zone hosts a space that mixes rustic earthy features with lush greenery. This look stands apart from the glossy interiors of The Espresso Lab or % Arabica. The menu supports the vibe with a paratha, labneh, hot honey and zaatar for AED 28. It is a design-led café that prioritises the setting over speed.
It suits a stylish catch-up where you want to sit and talk. The price range sits between AED 40 and 120 per person. You will find a softer neighbourhood atmosphere here. It is not the place for a quick espresso shot. Choose it for a relaxed morning or a casual lunch in Al Quoz.
The BEST OF brief- Best forA stylish catch-up in a green, design-led space.
- The chef’s cooking
- Breakfast
- Somewhere quiet
- Weekends
- Don’t missParatha with labneh, hot honey and zaatar, AED 28
- Good to knowBreakfast is served all dayPrices range from AED 40 to 120 per person
- Vegetarian options
- On the leaderboards
- Best Pubs in Dubai nominated
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
- Best Coffee in Dubai nominated
- Best Tacos in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: You need a fast espresso or a quiet work desk
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
- #9Best Design-Led Café in Dubai
9. A Normal Day
90/100BEST OF scoreDar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl
Our verdict
A Normal Day sits in Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, and offers a stylish space for coffee and food.
- Design-led café visits in Al Wasl
- Location
- Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl
BEST OF editorial
It provides an aesthetic environment that feels relaxed rather than overdone. This makes it a distinct choice compared to the other spots on this list. The focus here is on the visual experience alongside the menu items. It suits readers who want a design-led café visit without the intensity of a dedicated roastery or espresso bar. The location within the mall adds to the casual nature of the stop.
This place works well for relaxed café sessions and casual meals. It is a good pick for those who value the look of the room as much as the drink. The vibe is laid back, fitting for a longer stay. It is not the spot for a quick espresso or a heavy pastry focus. Choose this if you want a balanced mix of style and sustenance in Al Wasl.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDesign-led café visits in Al Wasl
- Don’t missVisit for a relaxed session in a stylish, non-overdone space
Look elsewhere if: If you need a dedicated roastery or espresso focus
9. A Normal Day
Best Design-Led Café in DubaiBEST OF score90/100ExcellentBEST OF verdictA Normal Day sits in Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, and offers a stylish space for coffee and food.
MapSave- Location
- Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl, Dubai
BEST OF editorial
It provides an aesthetic environment that feels relaxed rather than overdone. This makes it a distinct choice compared to the other spots on this list. The focus here is on the visual experience alongside the menu items. It suits readers who want a design-led café visit without the intensity of a dedicated roastery or espresso bar. The location within the mall adds to the casual nature of the stop.
This place works well for relaxed café sessions and casual meals. It is a good pick for those who value the look of the room as much as the drink. The vibe is laid back, fitting for a longer stay. It is not the spot for a quick espresso or a heavy pastry focus. Choose this if you want a balanced mix of style and sustenance in Al Wasl.
The BEST OF brief- Best forDesign-led café visits in Al Wasl
- Don’t missVisit for a relaxed session in a stylish, non-overdone space
Look elsewhere if: If you need a dedicated roastery or espresso focus
- Common Grounds
1 / 4Best neighbourhood stop10. Common Grounds
89/100BEST OF scoreMultiple Dubai locationsNeighbourhood coffee shop
Our verdict
Common Grounds earns its place for consistency across Dubai.
- Regular local visits and casual meals
- Price
- AED 45–140 per person
- Open
- Mon 08:00 to 23:30; Tue to Fri 08:00 to 22:30; Sat and Sun 08:00 to 23:30
- Location
- Mall of Level 2
BEST OF editorial
It is not the most niche specialty shop, but it is useful and easy. The group operates venues like Tom & Serg and Encounter Coffee. Their Al Quoz warehouse location started as a casual café away from the city's glitz. This history shapes the relaxed feel of the current branches. It suits people who want a reliable spot for regular local visits.
The menu includes salad bowls, wraps, and all-day breakfast options. Coffee is freshly ground on site. Prices range from AED 45 to AED 140 per person. It is a practical choice for work catch-ups or casual meals. You will find it in malls and beach areas. The hours vary by location, so check the specific branch before you go. It is a safe bet when you need a simple, consistent coffee break.
The BEST OF brief- Best forRegular local visits and casual meals
- A proper dinner
- Breakfast
- Groups
- Homegrown
- Don’t missAll-day breakfast options with freshly ground coffee
- Good to knowHours vary by locationJLT closes 5PM weekends, MoE opens until 11:30PM
- On the leaderboards
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Specialty coffee purists seeking unique roasts
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
10. Common Grounds
Best neighbourhood stopCommon Grounds1 of 4BEST OF score89/100GreatBEST OF verdictCommon Grounds earns its place for consistency across Dubai.
- Style
- Neighbourhood coffee shop
- Location
- Mall of Level 2
- Price
- AED 45–140 per person
- Hours
- Mon 08:00 to 23:30; Tue to Fri 08:00 to 22:30; Sat and Sun 08:00 to 23:30
BEST OF editorial
It is not the most niche specialty shop, but it is useful and easy. The group operates venues like Tom & Serg and Encounter Coffee. Their Al Quoz warehouse location started as a casual café away from the city's glitz. This history shapes the relaxed feel of the current branches. It suits people who want a reliable spot for regular local visits.
The menu includes salad bowls, wraps, and all-day breakfast options. Coffee is freshly ground on site. Prices range from AED 45 to AED 140 per person. It is a practical choice for work catch-ups or casual meals. You will find it in malls and beach areas. The hours vary by location, so check the specific branch before you go. It is a safe bet when you need a simple, consistent coffee break.
The BEST OF brief- Best forRegular local visits and casual meals
- A proper dinner
- Breakfast
- Groups
- Homegrown
- Don’t missAll-day breakfast options with freshly ground coffee
- Good to knowHours vary by locationJLT closes 5PM weekends, MoE opens until 11:30PM
- On the leaderboards
- Best Breakfast in Dubai nominated
Look elsewhere if: Specialty coffee purists seeking unique roasts
Checked 5 Nov 2026 from official site and our profile
Have your say
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- BohoX
- BABA ROMA
- Peachbrown CafeJLT
- Coffee Matters
- LDC Kitchen+Coffee
- Grandmother Roastery
- The Coffee ClubJLT
- Wanasa Cafe
- Blacksmith Coffee CompanyAl Quoz, Dubai
- Drinkit coffee
- FiLLi CafeJumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai
- HarvestDubai Garden Centre
- Tea Post
- Blue Box Café
- COFFEE TABLE
- Tom&Serg.Al Joud Center, Al Quoz
- Arabian Cave Cafe "Letizia"
- DELIZIE CAFFÈ GOURMET
- Seven Fortunes Coffee RoastersAl Quoz Industrial Area 2
- Aspen Cafe
- Drip And Whisk Specialty Coffee
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Know before you go
The practical things that change the visit.
BEST OF takeHow to choose your café
Pick The Espresso Lab if you care about the cup quality above all else. Choose Nightjar for a social, artistic setting with food. Go to RAW Coffee Company if you want to buy beans and gear. For remote work, Boon Coffee offers a practical mix of coffee and easy access. Avoid large, noisy spots if you need silence; Brew Café and The Espresso Lab are calmer options.
Check before you bookThree details that shape the visit
- AvailabilityOpening hours, sessions or reservation slots
- Current pricePackages, minimum spends or seasonal changes
- Exact locationBranch, entrance, parking and transport
- Group fitAge rules, capacity and accessibility
Decision StrategyCompare the right details before choosing
- Start with the signature choice
- Compare freshness and flavour
- Check portion size and value
- Save a contrasting second option
What Can DisappointAvoid disappointing coffee-shop choices
The best coffee shop should match your drink preference, seating needs and reason for staying.
- Choosing only by décor. A stylish room does not guarantee well-made espresso or filter coffee.
- Ignoring peak noise. Busy hours can make working, reading or conversation difficult.
- Ordering without asking about beans. Roast style and brewing method can significantly change the cup.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best coffee shop in Dubai?
The Espresso Lab is the top pick for overall quality. It is a serious coffee-first spot with a calm, minimal feel.
Where can I buy coffee beans in Dubai?
RAW Coffee Company, The Espresso Lab and Boon Coffee sell beans. Check current availability before visiting.
What is the best coffee shop in Dubai for working?
Boon Coffee and Common Grounds work well for casual work sessions. Check seating and plug points before planning a long stay.
What should I order if I am new to specialty coffee?
Start with a flat white or iced latte for something easy. Try pour-over or single-origin espresso to taste the coffee more clearly.
How we chose
We ranked these places based on quality, consistency, value, service and setting. We checked that each business was open on 2026-10-22. No business paid to be listed or ranked.
- Core quality and execution25%
- Consistency and reliability20%
- Reader usefulness and fit15%
- Service and experience15%
- Value for the category15%
- Access and booking clarity10%
- Coffee Quality. The taste and consistency of the specialty coffee served.
- Setting. The atmosphere, design and suitability for work or socialising.
- Value. The balance between price and the experience offered.
- Service. The helpfulness and speed of the staff.
- Convenience. Location, access and ease of use for the intended visit.
- No paid placementsNo business paid to be here or to rank higher.
- Checked openEvery place was confirmed open on 22 Oct 2026.
- Official sourcesDetails come from each business’s own site and our profiles.
Credits
- Edited by
- Mark Pearson
- Checked
- All 10 confirmed open on 22 Oct 2026
- Photos
- From each business’s profile on BEST OF and its own website
- How it was made
- Our editors choose and rank every place. Our own AI tools help draft and check the words; an editor approves every guide.
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