Introduction – United Arab Emirates’s Arabica Coffee Market: A Quantitative Overview
When you think of coffee-producing giants, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) probably isn’t the first name that comes to mind. And you’d be right—the UAE’s desert climate doesn’t support coffee cultivation. But here’s the twist: despite not growing a single Arabica bean, the UAE has positioned itself as a central player in the global coffee supply chain.
Let’s break it down with some hard numbers:
- The UAE imports between 50,000 to 60,000 metric tons of coffee beans annually, mainly sourcing Arabica beans from powerhouses like Ethiopia, Brazil, and Colombia.
- A significant portion, around 30-40%, of these imports are re-exported, bolstering the UAE’s status as a major trading hub.
- In terms of market value, the UAE coffee industry hit over USD 310 million in 2023, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. The specialty coffee segment alone is projected to skyrocket to USD 1.22 billion by 2030, growing at a 10.6% CAGR.
What’s more, the global spotlight is shining brightly on the Emirates. In April 2024, % Arabica, a well-known Japanese coffee brand, announced it would be setting up its global HQ in Dubai, signaling the UAE’s rising importance in the coffee scene.
With all this in mind, selecting the right supplier in the UAE isn’t just about picking a name off a list—it’s about using data to make informed decisions. This is where platforms like Freshdi come in, offering verified supplier data, RFQ trends, and real-time market signals to help businesses source smarter.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the UAE doesn’t grow coffee, but it trades it like a pro.
In 2024, the UAE exported 7.6 thousand metric tons of green coffee, a 20% increase from previous years. This bounce-back highlights how the UAE is leveraging its strategic ports, tax-free zones, and world-class logistics infrastructure to dominate the re-export game.
Now, here’s where things get even more interesting. Platforms like Freshdi are seeing a growing number of RFQs (Requests for Quotations) for Arabica coffee varieties, especially from buyers in Europe, Asia, and Africa. This aligns with the UAE’s role as a redistribution hub and reinforces the importance of choosing suppliers who are aligned with export trends.
Top 7 Verified Arabica Coffee Suppliers in United Arab Emirates – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Looking for reliable Arabica coffee suppliers in the UAE? We’ve analyzed export data, global reach, certifications, and buyer reviews from Freshdi to bring you the ultimate list.
Here are the Top 7 Arabica Coffee Suppliers in the United Arab Emirates for 2025:
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MEHRAN REISI GENERAL TRADING LLC
Known for its premium Bolivian Arabica coffee, Mehran Reisi has built a strong reputation for quality and consistency. Their client-first approach and impressive export volumes make them a top-tier choice. -
Garda General Trading L.L.C
Specializing in high-altitude Arabica beans, Garda serves clients across Europe and the Middle East. They’re praised for their traceable supply chain and responsive customer service. -
Horizon Commercial Brokerage
Horizon offers 100% pure Arabica beans, with certifications that appeal to specialty coffee roasters. Their beans are sourced from ethically compliant farms and have consistent cupping scores. -
Samga, LLC
A newer name with fast-growing market presence, Samga stands out for its agile logistics and competitive pricing. Their beans are especially popular in the at-home coffee segment. -
Manural FZE
With a strong foothold in the African-Arabica trade, Manural offers beans that are rich in flavor and perfect for espresso blends. Their customizable packaging options are a hit among private label brands. -
Al Dar Roastery
A homegrown favorite, Al Dar focuses on roasted Arabica beans for both bulk and retail. Their roasting expertise and local delivery make them ideal for restaurants and cafés. -
Kaffa Beans Trading
Sourcing directly from Ethiopian farmers, Kaffa Beans is all about transparency and sustainability. Their fair-trade practices and bean diversity have earned them a loyal clientele.
Dynamic Ranking Note:
Don’t forget—supplier rankings change frequently based on RFQ volumes, buyer feedback, and shipment data. Freshdi routinely updates its “Suppliers of the Month/Quarter” list to reflect real-time performance, making it a vital tool for staying ahead in this fast-paced market.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
The Arabica coffee market isn’t just growing—it’s evolving. Let’s unpack some of the key trends reshaping the UAE’s coffee trade.
Export Trends and Demand Drivers
The surge in 2024 green coffee exports wasn’t a fluke. It was powered by:
- A growing expat population with refined coffee preferences.
- A booming tourism sector feeding demand for high-quality brews.
- A cultural shift towards specialty cafés and third-wave coffee experiences.
Young consumers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are driving demand for single-origin, organic, and ethically sourced Arabica beans. These preferences are shifting the market from mass imports to curated selections.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Ah, the rollercoaster of Arabica prices. In early 2025, futures hit $4 per pound, a historic high. Why?
- Climate Troubles: Brazil’s dry spells slashed yields.
- Supply Bottlenecks: Logistic issues and reduced stockpiles tightened supply.
- Global Demand: Specialty coffee demand is outpacing supply, pushing prices up.
This volatility makes timing your purchases critical. Businesses using Freshdi’s real-time price dashboards can monitor seasonal spikes and plan their sourcing strategies accordingly.
Forecasts and Market Outlook
Looking ahead:
- Prices may continue to rise if supply constraints persist.
- The UAE coffee market is expected to hit $1.28 billion in 2025.
- The at-home brewing segment is set for steady growth at 2.52% CAGR from 2025 to 2030.
Translation? Whether you’re an importer, distributor, or café owner, now’s the time to lock in supplier relationships and secure your supply chain.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
The UAE may not grow Arabica coffee, but it’s become one of the world’s most strategic hubs for sourcing and re-exporting it. With rising demand, evolving consumer preferences, and price volatility, the stakes have never been higher.
Choosing the right supplier isn’t about guesswork—it’s about leveraging data, export performance, and buyer reviews. Platforms like Freshdi make this easy by offering:
- Verified supplier credentials.
- Real-time RFQ trends.
- Shipment analytics and pricing insights.
So whether you’re sourcing for a premium café, a hotel group, or a private label brand, use the tools at your disposal. Strategic sourcing starts with smart data—and Freshdi is the compass you need.
Checklist for Coffee Buyers in 2025
- ✅ Check supplier certifications (Organic, Fair Trade, etc.)
- ✅ Monitor Arabica price trends (use platforms like Freshdi)
- ✅ Review export track records and buyer reviews
- ✅ Align orders to seasonal supply trends
- ✅ Use dynamic rankings to identify top-performing suppliers
Key Takeaways
- The UAE is a major importer and re-exporter of Arabica beans.
- Specialty coffee is the fastest-growing segment.
- Supplier verification and market data are critical for smart sourcing.
- Price volatility is expected to continue into 2025.
- Freshdi empowers buyers with real-time insights and vetted suppliers.
Future Outlook
The next few years will be transformative for the UAE’s coffee trade. As global demand for high-quality Arabica rises, suppliers in the Emirates will play a bigger role in shaping how the world drinks coffee. Expect more investment in logistics, sustainability, and digital platforms that connect buyers and sellers seamlessly.
Platforms like Freshdi will be at the forefront, helping businesses navigate market shifts with confidence and clarity.
FAQs
1. Why is the UAE such a big player in the Arabica coffee trade if it doesn’t grow coffee?
Because of its strategic location, world-class logistics, and strong trade infrastructure, the UAE serves as a major import-export hub, especially for Arabica beans.
2. What makes Arabica coffee so popular?
Arabica beans are known for their smooth flavor, lower caffeine content, and complex aroma, making them ideal for specialty coffees.
3. How can I find a verified supplier in the UAE?
Platforms like Freshdi offer access to vetted suppliers, verified documents, and real-time RFQ trends to ensure you’re working with reliable partners.
4. Are Arabica coffee prices expected to rise in 2025?
Yes, due to ongoing supply shortages in key producing countries like Brazil, prices are projected to remain high.
5. What certifications should I look for when choosing a supplier?
Look for certifications like USDA Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and ISO standards to ensure quality and ethical sourcing.
References
- linkedin.com – UAE Coffee Market
- actualmarketresearch.com
- grandviewresearch.com
- worldcoffeeportal.com
- indexbox.io
- malongo-me.com
- totaluae.com
- coffeesunset.com
- fitchsolutions.com
- statista.com
