Arabic coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and hospitality. Often served in small handleless cups with a tray of warm dates or sweets, this practice reflects centuries of Emirati and Middle Eastern culture.
But which dates go best? And what sweets complement the rich, spiced notes of Arabic coffee? Let’s explore how to master the art of pairing Arabic coffee with traditional delights.
Why Are Dates Paired with Arabic Coffee?
The pairing of dates with Arabic coffee is deeply rooted in Gulf hospitality. Dates offer natural sweetness that balances the strong, spiced flavor of Arabic coffee — often made with cardamom, saffron, or cloves.
Curious about the exact ingredients that give Arabic coffee its unique taste? Explore the top 5 spices used in Arabic coffee here. (link recent blog on bold words )
More than flavor, it’s about welcoming your guest. In Emirati and Bedouin culture, offering coffee and dates is a symbol of respect and generosity.
Want to know what makes Arabic coffee so distinct? Read more here.
What Kind of Dates Go Best with Arabic Coffee?
Medjool, Khudri, and Ajwa dates pair best with Arabic coffee. Their natural sweetness perfectly balances the coffee’s rich, earthy, and spiced flavors. Here are the top choices:
- Large, soft, and caramel-like
- Perfect for special occasions or gifting
- Chewy with moderate sweetness
- Popular for daily servings and cafés
- Smaller and drier, with religious and cultural importance
- Often served during Ramadan
- Almonds, pistachios, or candied orange peel
- Add texture and elegance to the tray
These pairings don’t just enhance taste — they create a balanced sensory experience.
What Sweets Go Well with Arabic Coffee?
Arabic coffee pairs beautifully with light, nutty, or honeyed desserts. Here are traditional and modern options:
Best Sweets to Pair with Arabic Coffee:
- Baklava: Flaky pastry with nuts and syrup
- Maamoul: Date-filled shortbread cookies, mildly sweet
- Luqaimat: Fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup
- Halwa: Soft, dense, and spiced — often saffron-infused
- Chocolate-covered dates: A modern luxury twist
These sweets enhance the complexity of Arabic coffee without overpowering it. Bonus tip: pair sweets by region — baklava for a Levantine feel, halwa for a Gulf-style spread.
How to Serve Arabic Coffee with Dates and Sweets (Etiquette Tips)
Pairing isn't just about flavor — it's also about the ritual:
- Always serve Arabic coffee in small finjan cups
- Offer dates first, before the guest sips
- Hold the dallah (coffee pot) in your left hand
- Serve from right to left
This tradition is widely practiced across homes and majlis in the UAE and beyond.
Pairing Arabic Coffee Like in UAE
In UAE, it’s a familiar sight to see Arabic coffee served with warm Khudri or Medjool dates and a hint of rose water — a tradition we proudly follow at Auro Coffee. Our cafés offer a true taste of heritage with premium beans and handpicked, locally sourced dates.
Whether you're stopping by one of our locations or hosting guests at home, you can now order our Arabic coffee beans online and enjoy this authentic pairing anywhere in the UAE.
Curious how Arabic coffee stacks up against black coffee? Explore the difference here
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of dates go best with Arabic coffee?
Medjool, Ajwa, and Khudri dates are excellent choices for their natural sweetness and texture.
Why are dates served with Arabic coffee?
They offer a natural balance to the coffee’s spice and represent tradition and hospitality in Arab culture.
Can I serve sweets with Arabic coffee?
Yes! Popular choices include baklava, maamoul, and chocolate-covered dates.
Is there a proper way to serve Arabic coffee?
Yes. Offer dates first, serve in small cups, and refill up to three times.
Where to Try Traditional Pairings in the UAE
Visit any of our three Auro Coffee cafés in Abu Dhabi to enjoy authentic Arabic coffee and hand-picked date pairings. Or, browse our curated blends and gift boxes online — delivered across the UAE.
Explore our Arabic coffee bean here