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Emirati traditions

Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)

Serving Arabic coffee is a daily ritual and a mark of generosity and hospitality. It is served at weddings and tribal gatherings, with set rules: elders and guests first, poured with the right hand. UNESCO lists it as of 2024, with Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20241
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
51
Countries on the listing

Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic القهوة العربية
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2024
Listed by United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan

Source: UNESCO: Arabic coffee, a symbol of generosity1

The etiquette

  • Elders and guests are served first
  • The coffee is poured with the right hand
  • Shake the cup gently when you have had enough

Source: UNESCO: Arabic coffee, a symbol of generosity1

These rules are passed down informally from one generation to the next. In gatherings, coffee often comes with poetry, conversation and shared memories.1

Coffee with dates

Gahwa is usually served with dates, and opens a meal or a welcome. Accepting a cup is part of being a good guest.2

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Arabic coffee, a symbol of generosity
  2. Visit Abu Dhabi: Emirati food and coffee culture
  3. UNESCO: United Arab Emirates, elements on the Intangible Cultural Heritage lists

Facts checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information.

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