Dubai – Qahwa World
Adam Rubin from Benchmark Coffee has been named the Best Barista in the United Arab Emirates, following a highly competitive national championship held as part of World of Coffee Dubai 2026. The fifth edition of the exhibition concluded yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attracting more than 20,000 visitors from over 80 countries.
Rubin’s victory came after a rigorous evaluation process assessing espresso preparation, milk-based beverages, and signature drinks. Nooran Albannay of Coffee Architecture secured second place, while Serkan Sagsoz of Julith Coffee claimed third place.
The UAE National Barista Championship is part of a series of competitions held during the exhibition, which also included the UAE Latte Art Championship, the UAE Roasting Championship, and the international Cezve/Ibrik World Championship. These competitions recognize technical excellence, creativity, and consistency in specialty coffee preparation.
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 also celebrated innovation and design through awards such as Best New Product, won by Sage, and the Coffee Design Award, won by Coffee Market Innovations. In addition, the event hosted three live coffee auctions, setting new price benchmarks and showcasing the diversity of coffee origins available on the global market.
Adam Rubin’s achievement highlights the growing talent within the UAE’s specialty coffee sector and underscores Dubai’s position as a hub for professional excellence, innovation, and trade in the global coffee industry.
