Register Now for a Chance to Win the Oscar II Coffee Machine
Dubai – Qahwa World
Coffee technicians from around the world are being called to prove their skills on one of the industry’s biggest stages. The Dubai Technicians Competition 2026 – 2nd Edition, officially known as the Simonelli Technicians Competition, is set to take place on June 5, 2026, at the Nuova Simonelli Experience Lab in Umm Suqeim, Dubai.
This prestigious event celebrates excellence in coffee machine maintenance and repair. Organizers are looking for the best field technicians to compete for the title of Champion Technician, along with substantial prizes including a Nuova Simonelli Oscar II coffee machine, cash awards, and exclusive rewards from event sponsors.
“This is your moment, coffee technicians,” the competition announcement reads. “Think you’ve got what it takes to be the best? Step up and claim your spot.”
How to Enter the Competition
The path to the finals begins with a pre-qualification test. Applications are open from April 23, 2026, through May 12, 2026. Only field technicians are eligible to apply; trainers and technical directors cannot participate.
The pre-selection process consists of an online questionnaire with 20 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have a maximum of 15 minutes to complete the timed test. In the event of a tie based on correct answers, rankings will be determined by completion time.
From this pool, the top eight finalists will be selected to compete live in Dubai. However, a special rule applies: no two finalists may come from the same company. If two candidates from the same company rank among the top eight, only the higher‑scoring candidate advances. The ninth‑place candidate will then take the open spot, and this process repeats if necessary.
Competition Format: Three Battles of Skill
The live event in Dubai features three rounds of one‑on‑one battles, moving from quarterfinals to semifinals and finally to the championship match. All rounds are performed in front of a live audience and evaluated by a jury of three recognized coffee industry professionals with strong technical expertise.
First Round – Speed Test (Replacing a Part)
Competitors must replace a specified component as quickly and safely as possible. Each candidate receives 25 minutes, with five additional minutes for workstation preparation. A penalty of one point is deducted for every 10 seconds over the allotted time, and exceeding the time by more than three minutes results in disqualification.
Scoring is divided into four parts: initial evaluation (personal organization and tools, 1‑10 points); technical evaluation (safety, dexterity, proper tool use, methodology, 1‑10 points); final evaluation (validation tests, cleanliness, care, 1‑10 points); and a bonus of 15 points for the earliest completion.
Semi‑Finals – Troubleshooting Test
Here, a staff member announces a machine malfunction, acting as a client. Candidates may ask a few clarifying questions before beginning repairs. The same time limits and penalty structure apply. Scoring includes technical evaluation (1‑10 points), final evaluation (1‑10 points), and an early‑completion bonus of five points.
Final Round – Quality Check Test
The championship round requires finalists to perform a standard preventive maintenance plan: changing group seals, shower screens, grinder burrs, and the water filter. In addition, each competitor must prepare four espressos for the jury using a provided coffee and prescribed recipe. The time limit is 45 minutes, plus five minutes for setup. Scoring covers technical evaluation (1‑10 points), espresso preparation quality (1‑10 points), and a five‑point early‑completion bonus.
Safety and Eligibility Requirements
Throughout all events, candidates must follow strict safety rules. This includes working with power disconnected, depressurizing boilers when necessary, and wearing appropriate protective equipment. Each technician is responsible for their own actions during the competition.
Finalists must provide their own electrical certification and sign a liability waiver. All machines, grinders, spare parts, coffee, and cups are supplied by the organizers and must be used as prescribed.
Sponsors and Jury
The competition is supported by leading industry partners: BWT (water + more), REPA (A Parts Town Unlimited Company), the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), and Cafetto.
The jury consists of three recognized professionals from the Dubai coffee scene – technical managers and coffee or machine experts. Candidates are evaluated not only on technical knowledge and abilities but also on their general knowledge of coffee, water, and the operating environment of traditional coffee machines and grinders.
Prizes and Glory
The ultimate champion takes home the prestigious “Champion Technician” title, a Nuova Simonelli Oscar II coffee machine, cash prizes, and additional sponsor rewards. Many other surprises and gifts will be awarded to finalists and participants.
How to Register
Interested technicians can register and review the complete official rules at the event portal:
https://nuovasimonelli.com/event-form/rules-of-the-2026-dubai-technicians-competition/
Spots are limited, and competition is expected to be fierce. The event takes place on June 5, 2026, at the Nuova Simonelli Experience Lab & Branch Office, 139 Umm Suqeim Street, Dubai, UAE.
“Are you in… or watching from the sidelines?” the organizers ask. For coffee technicians ready to prove they are the best, now is the time to step up and claim the title.
