A Neighbourhood Coffee Guide

Khalifa City's Coffee Boom: 6 Diverse Destinations Defining Abu Dhabi's New Coffee Capital

Specialty Roasters, Concept Stores & Mall Cafés: Inside Abu Dhabi's Most Complete Coffee Scene

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While tourists flock to the Corniche for their caffeine fix, Abu Dhabi's coffee connoisseurs have discovered something extraordinary in Khalifa City. This residential neighborhood has quietly assembled the capital's most diverse specialty coffee scene—six exceptional destinations that range from serious specialty roasters like to elegant concept stores and everything in between. Whether you're seeking expert single-origin brews, chic coffee lounges, or convenient mall-based quality coffee, Khalifa City delivers variety that no other Abu Dhabi neighborhood can match.

Things Specialty Coffee And Concept Store
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Things Specialty Coffee And Concept Store

More than just a coffee shop, Things is a cool concept store blending serious specialty coffee with unique lifestyle finds. Expect a sleek, minimalist vibe and some expertly brewed coffee that caters to true enthusiasts.

Cartel Coffee Roasters - Khalifa City
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Cartel Coffee Roasters - Khalifa City

A sharp, design-forward café from one of the UAE’s most respected specialty brands, nestled in a quiet corner of Khalifa City.

A3 Specialty Cafe
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A3 Specialty Cafe

A chic café with leopard-print décor serving specialty brews (Iced Rose Latte, Matcha Latte, Aeropress, V60, Chemex), all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and pastries in a cozy, laptop-friendly space.

Blackout Specialty Coffee – Masdar City
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Blackout Specialty Coffee – Masdar City

Located in Masdar City, Blackout is a detail-driven café serious about its craft, serving single-origin pourovers (including Geisha) & espresso drinks - best suited to coffee purists and quiet solo visits.

Joud Coffee - Forsan Mall
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Joud Coffee - Forsan Mall

Located within Forsan Central Mall, this Joud outpost blends specialty coffee with a refined, café-lounge feel—suited for relaxed catchups, study sessions, or a quick caffeine stop between errands.

Joud Coffee - Khalifa City
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Joud Coffee - Khalifa City

A staple of Abu Dhabi’s specialty scene, Joud Coffee in Khalifa City serves up consistent, house-roasted espresso and filter brews in a calm, wood-toned setting—ideal for easy mornings or midweek caffeinated focus.

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