Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
As part of the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE), the inaugural Abu Dhabi Coffee Hub took place at ADNEC this week, offering a rich experience to coffee enthusiasts.
Organised by DXB Live and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) UAE, the event blended culinary culture with coffee exploration, featuring workshops, and social lounges designed for coffee professionals and newcomers alike.
Speaking to Aletihad, Khalid Al Mulla, CEO of the Coffee Museum and National Coordinator for the UAE branch of the American Coffee Association, was full of beans about the inaugural Abu Dhabi Coffee Hub.
He said: "We have been working with event organisers for many years. The indication of a company's participation shows that there has been a significant increase in companies, which never happened in previous years. "Especially with the announcement of the Abu Dhabi Coffee Hub, and government support from ADNIC and other entities, this has allowed companies to have this great presence, which we see this year."
Al Mulla also spoke about the UAE National Brewers Cup Championship, hosted by the SCA UAE, which offers local baristas the chance to compete on the global stage.
"Part of our mission in SCA UAE is to host a national championship, the UAE National Brewers Cup Championship, sanctioned under our chapter. Whoever wins, represents the UAE on a world level.
"The competition is judged by local and international judges from different parts of the world, and participants demonstrate their skills, excellence in customer service, hygiene, and knowledge - all of which are crucial in our industry," he explained.
He further introduced the "Brew Bar" initiative, offering an opportunity for companies to showcase their coffee products without a full exhibition stand.
Discussing the Coffee Museum, Al Mulla expressed his passion for promoting the cultural aspect of coffee.
"I am very keen on promoting the cultural part of coffee. Since we are celebrating National Day, I have been called to many different events to serve Arabic coffee."
Al Mulla elaborated on the museum's role in showcasing the evolution of coffee, from its early origins to modern-day brewing technology.
"The Coffee Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood Dubai, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. It offers a tour that spans the history of coffee - from early machines and roasters to modern brewing technologies. It highlights how the coffee industry has evolved over the years," he explained.
Al Mulla also highlighted the UAE's role as the fifth-largest re-exporter of coffee.
With a positive outlook on the future, he shared: "With the announcement of the Abu Dhabi Coffee Hub and the support from the government, we will see the coffee industry reach a new level. The UAE has proven to benchmark its position as a global leader in the food industry, not just in coffee, but in food security as well."
Al Mulla also stressed on the importance of supporting local startups, adding that they are working closely with different authorities to ensure their growth.
