Source: Qahwa World – Exclusive Interview |
Author: Ali Alzakary |
Date: June 17, 2026

Maryam Tabatabaei: A Journey of Passion in Dubai’s Specialty Coffee Scene

Key Takeaways:

  • Maryam Tabatabaei is a specialty coffee expert, holding certifications in coffee evaluation, training, roasting, and competition judging.
  • She believes training is at the core of her work and finds the greatest reward in seeing trainees grow and succeed in the coffee industry.
  • She founded The Coffee Atelier as a learning space that combines professionalism with creativity.
  • She defines specialty coffee as quality, transparency, and respect for everyone in the coffee chain – not just high cost or complexity.
  • She believes coffee is a means of connection across cultures, and that hospitality and passion are universal values.
  • Her advice to those who love coffee but doubt their career prospects: start learning, stay curious, and be patient.

Maryam Tabatabaei is one of the experienced professionals in Dubai’s specialty coffee scene. She holds multiple certifications in coffee evaluation, training, roasting, and competition judging. Her work spans several areas: training, roasting, judging, and sensory analysis.

In this interview, Maryam talks about her beginnings with coffee, her experience in training, her perspective on Dubai’s coffee scene, and her advice for those who aspire to work in this field.

We invite you to read the interview and learn from her experience.

Do you remember the first coffee that truly surprised you?

Absolutely. It was the first time I tasted a naturally processed specialty coffee with intense fruit notes. Until then, coffee was simply coffee to me. Discovering flavors like berries, tropical fruits, and chocolate in a single cup completely changed my understanding of what coffee could be.

When did you realize coffee was going to become more than just a job for you?

I realized it when I started teaching others. Seeing students become passionate about coffee and watching their skills develop gave me a sense of purpose beyond making drinks. That’s when coffee became a lifelong journey rather than just a profession.

What still excites you about coffee today?

Coffee never stops teaching me something new. Whether it’s a new origin, a unique processing method, or helping someone discover a flavor they’ve never experienced before, there is always something new to explore.

You work in education, roasting, judging, and sensory. Which part feels most like you?

Training feels most like me. I enjoy sharing knowledge and helping people grow. Roasting and judging are incredibly rewarding, but seeing students gain confidence and succeed in their coffee careers is what fulfills me the most.

What’s something people misunderstand about specialty coffee?

Many people think specialty coffee is about being expensive or complicated. In reality, it’s about quality, transparency, and respect for everyone involved in the coffee chain – from the farmer to the person preparing the cup.

Has coffee changed the way you see people or culture?

Definitely. Coffee has allowed me to connect with people from many different countries and backgrounds. It has taught me that while cultures may differ, hospitality, passion, and the desire to connect over a cup of coffee are universal.

What was going through your mind during the roasting championship?

A mixture of excitement, focus, and responsibility. I knew every decision could affect the final result. At the same time, I reminded myself to trust my training, experience, and understanding of the coffee.

Do you still get nervous judging competitions or teaching students?

Yes, and I think that’s a good thing. A little nervousness means I care about doing my best. Whether I’m judging a competition or teaching a class, I want to give participants the attention and respect they deserve.

What’s the most rewarding moment you’ve had with a student?

Seeing a former student become a successful coffee professional and knowing I played a small part in their journey. Those moments remind me why education is so important.

What kind of atmosphere did you want to create with The Coffee Atelier?

I wanted The Coffee Atelier to be a place where people feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and developing their skills. A place that combines professionalism with creativity and genuine passion for coffee.

Dubai’s coffee scene is growing fast. What makes you hopeful about it?

The level of curiosity and commitment I see from young professionals. More people are interested in quality, training, and understanding coffee deeply rather than simply following trends. That gives me a lot of hope for the future.

What advice would you give someone who loves coffee but doubts they can make a career from it?

Start learning, stay curious, and be patient. The coffee industry offers many paths beyond being a barista. If you’re passionate and willing to keep improving, there is absolutely a place for you in this industry.

After all the certifications and competitions, what does a “good cup of coffee” mean to you now?

A good cup of coffee is one that creates a meaningful experience. Technical perfection matters, but ultimately, a great coffee is one that brings enjoyment, connection, and appreciation for the work behind it.

When you’re not analyzing coffee professionally, how do you actually enjoy drinking it?

I prefer simple brewing methods that allow me to relax and enjoy the coffee without overthinking it. Sometimes I just want to sit quietly and appreciate the cup rather than analyze every flavor note.

What keeps you motivated to continue learning in coffee?

The fact that coffee is a world without an endpoint. There is always another origin to explore, another technique to learn, and another person to inspire. That endless opportunity for growth keeps me motivated every day.

This interview offers insight into Maryam Tabatabaei’s experience in the specialty coffee world, her professional journey, and her perspective on training and development. We invite you to read the full interview and benefit from her expertise.

Interview conducted by: Qahwa World – with Maryam Tabatabaei, specialty coffee expert and founder of The Coffee Atelier in Dubai.

All rights reserved. Republication with attribution permitted.

Publication date: June 17, 2026