On a serene Ramadan night, when the aroma of coffee blended with the spirit of the holy month, the Coffee Museum in Dubai opened its doors for a special evening uniting history and culture. In collaboration with the Mexican Business Council, a unique Suhoor gathering was held, featuring authentic Mexican coffee and cacao—fragrant beverages that go beyond a simple drink to become symbols of deep-rooted heritage.
It is no surprise that a cup of coffee can be the starting point for deep conversations connecting people across different cultures. This ancient beverage has always been a companion of reflection and gatherings. In this context, the Mexican Business Council emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and strengthening ties between nations, stating that coffee and cacao are more than just drinks; they are means of opening new opportunities for communication and business. As part of the event, the Council also presented authentic Mexican cacao, including the endemic variety of white Criollo Mexican cacao, which captured the audience’s interest. This rare and valuable variety highlights Mexico’s rich agricultural heritage and its unique flavor combinations with coffee.
The event brought together numerous coffee enthusiasts and entrepreneurs eager to immerse themselves in the world of Mexican coffee and cacao—treasures that many may not have been familiar with. Guests enjoyed tastings of beverages made from the finest coffee beans grown in the highlands of Chiapas and Veracruz, where generous nature meets the expertise of farmers to create flavors that carry the warmth of the sun and the essence of the soil.
Melisa Urtuzuastegui warmly welcomed the guests, expressing her joy at this unique gathering and inviting everyone to indulge in the experience of Mexican coffee and cacao, each sip carrying centuries of history.
Khalid Al Mulla, founder of the Coffee Museum in Dubai and president of the UAE Specialty Coffee Association, led the guests on an enchanting tour through the museum. Among rare artifacts and historical tools, Al Mulla narrated the story of coffee from its discovery by a Yemeni Sufi in the 15th century to its journey across continents, becoming an integral part of human life.
The tour was not just a display of exhibits but a journey through time, where Al Mulla infused his storytelling with passion and knowledge, using scientific evidence and historical anecdotes that immersed the attendees in the world of coffee as if they were witnessing its birth themselves.
A special part of the evening was dedicated to showcasing Mexican coffee and cacao in all their glory—from rare varieties to traditional preparation methods. Guests were served beverages inspired by the traditions of the Maya and Aztecs, some of the earliest civilizations to use coffee beans and cacao in their sacred rituals.
Mexico has long been one of the world’s leading producers of both coffee and cacao, thanks to its diverse climate that gives its beans unique flavor profiles ranging from dark chocolate notes to aromatic spices. A particularly popular preparation method is “Café de Olla”, where coffee is slowly brewed in a clay pot with cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a warm and captivating taste. Meanwhile, Mexican cacao, especially the white Criollo variety, boasts a refined taste and historical significance, complementing the rich coffee experience.
During the event, the guests’ deep enthusiasm for exploring coffee and cacao culture was remarkable. Khalid Al Mulla remarked that these beverages have never been just refreshments—they have always served as ancient social platforms, akin to the “social media” of past centuries.
By the end of the night, guests departed with more than just rich flavors and empty cups; they carried stories of the past and a deeper understanding of Mexican coffee and cacao—a culture that is told not only in words but in every sip, revealing centuries of passion and tradition.
Located in the historic Al Fahidi district, the Coffee Museum tells the story of coffee through the ages, blending heritage and modernity. Visitors can explore roasting and brewing methods from different cultures, including Arabic, Ethiopian, and Japanese traditions. The museum also houses a collection of antique tools used throughout history, along with a literary library filled with rare books on coffee.
More than just a museum, it serves as a gateway to the world of coffee in all its details. Visitors can stroll through its exhibits and discover how this beverage has become an inseparable part of cultures worldwide.
In the end, coffee and cacao remain more than just warm drinks—they are stories to be told, a heritage to be celebrated, and a bridge connecting people. This Ramadan evening perfectly embodied that spirit, bringing together the essence of Mexico and the pulse of Dubai under one roof—in the presence of coffee and cacao.