On a bright Sunday, I was invited to a special workshop titled “Gahwatna – From Local to Global” under the slogan “Keep it Emirati.” Held at the French Cultural Association in Dubai, this experience from the very first moment was a cultural masterpiece that blended authenticity with modernity, weaving together the story of the UAE and its deep love for coffee.
This workshop brought together the authentic Emirati spirit with a warm, friendly atmosphere, transporting attendees into a world of coffee rich with cultural significance and values. People of various nationalities filled the room, forming a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange. Coffee lovers from all corners of the world gathered to uncover the hidden stories within each coffee bean.
The Origin of Coffee
During the workshop, guests delved into the storied history of coffee, a legacy spanning centuries. The spotlight shone on Yemen and Ethiopia as the original homelands of coffee, where coffee cultivation flourished and traditions evolved, and where people first discovered its energizing power. Yemen played a pivotal role in introducing coffee to the world, with the renowned Mocha port marking the beginning of coffee exports in 1450.
From there, coffee made its way to the Arabian Peninsula and beyond, embedding itself into the lives and cultures of people around the globe.
Emirati Traditions in Coffee Service and the Symbolism of Cups
Guests were also introduced to the Emirati heritage of coffee service, where it’s not just a beverage but a tradition steeped in deep meaning, with unique names for each cup that reflect its purpose:
- Finyal Al Haif: The first cup offered by the host for the guest to sample and acknowledge the coffee’s taste.
- Finyal Al Dhaif: The second cup served to the guest as a symbol of hospitality and respect, regarded as the most honored and welcoming gesture.
- Finyal Al Kaif: The third cup, representing relaxation and enjoyment, indicates that the guest has settled in and savored the coffee’s flavor.
- Finyal Al Saif: The fourth cup, symbolizing readiness for support and defense, has roots in the chivalrous spirit, signifying sacrifice and loyalty to family or tribe.
These rich details greatly enhanced the guests’ experience, immersing them in an authentic Emirati atmosphere that fused the fragrance of the past with the innovations of the present. Through this cultural gathering, they deepened their understanding of the coffee traditions passed down through generations, taking part in an experience that elevates Emirati coffee to new global heights.
A Cultural Bridge between the UAE and France
The “Gahwatna” workshop, in partnership with the French Cultural Association, is more than just an event; it is a newly-built bridge to strengthen cultural dialogue between the UAE and France. This occasion creates a convergence point where Emirati traditions meet Francophone culture, positioning Dubai as a pivotal destination on the world coffee map.
The Authenticity, Innovation, and Global Reach
Commenting on the organization of the “Gahwatna” workshop series aimed at sharing Emirati coffee culture with the world, Ali Mansour, owner of “Gahwatna,” said, “The spirit of innovation that defines the UAE in every aspect of life is a fundamental pillar of the ‘Gahwatna’ project, which presents Emirati coffee in unique and creative ways.”
The “Gahwatna” series also celebrates the UAE National Days, with more workshops planned throughout the month, to be announced progressively.
Gahwatna is more than a coffee business; it is the story of a distinguished Emirati coffee journey that has grown into a global brand. Inspired by the visions of Zayed and Rashid, we in the UAE strive to reach the world stage in all that we create.
Gahwatna aspires to become a global brand, with stores worldwide offering Emirati coffee in diverse flavor profiles. We have innovatively developed our products so that our coffee can be prepared within two minutes using various brewing tools, while highlighting the etiquette and rituals of coffee service.
“Gahwatna is an innovative project, born from the heritage of our ancestors and carried forward by our youth today.”
