DUBAI – Qahwa World

It is no longer a secret that the global coffee sector is facing unprecedented pressures, starting from supply chain challenges and climate volatility in production regions, leading to new regulatory standards imposed by major markets, and other major challenges facing the sector that directly affect both farmers and consumers alike.

In light of these challenges, there is an emergence for the need for dialogue platforms that go beyond the language of numbers to focus on “institutional resilience.” From the heart of Dubai, which has strengthened its position as a logistical and intellectual hub for reshaping modern trade concepts, the “Coffee Break” event launches in its first edition on April 23, 2026.

The event is organized by Mokha 1450, the leading chain in the specialty coffee sector, in cooperation with Modora, to be a platform that brings together a group of creative minds and influential figures in the sector to discuss ways to turn challenges into opportunities, inspired by Dubai’s exceptional experience in crisis management.

This event is not just a social gathering, but a professional necessity in the context of “change management,” where expertise from private sector leaders meets with pioneers of specialty coffee culture to discuss the pressing question: How can Dubai’s model of resilience in the face of global crises inspire those active in the coffee industry to move beyond the “crisis response” stage to the “anticipating change” stage?

Speakers List

The session, held at Modora Home in Al Barsha, includes a distinguished list of speakers who combine deep corporate experience with specialized practical knowledge in the coffee world:

  • Abdulla Al Shaibani: Group CEO of Axeed LLC, who will present a strategic vision on leadership in times of change.

  • Garfield Kerr: CEO of Mokha 1450 and Former President of the Specialty Coffee Association, highlighting industry developments globally.

  • Khalid Al Mulla: CEO of Dubai Coffee Museum, who will connect the present with the historical and cultural roots of the profession.

  • Jennifer Pettinger-Haines: Founder and CEO of The GRIF Collective.

  • Paul Clifford: Editorial Leader and industry commentator.

The dialogue will be moderated by broadcaster and entrepreneur Zeena Zalamea, to ensure the creation of “real conversations and genuine connections” that move beyond traditional networking toward building shared visions.

Coffee as a Catalyst for Change

The organizers believe that coffee is not just a beverage, but a historical catalyst for new ideas. The forum will tackle a core question: How does Dubai’s strong record of successfully managing global crises inform our approach to overcoming current challenges?

Event Details

  • Date: April 23, 2026

  • Time: 3:00 PM

  • Location: Modora Home, Umm Suqeim St – Al Barsha Second, Dubai.

  • Tickets: AED 59 (Inclusive of coffee and snacks).