Arabic coffee, which is consumed in Egypt, is much more than a beverage: it is an authentic culture, as is the case with tea. This was recognized by UNESCO in 2024, when it declared it Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, under the title “A Symbol of Generosity” (note: as of May 2026, Egypt was not among the countries subscribing to this recognition). In the following lines, we explain how it originated, how it is prepared, and how it is served, so you can understand its importance in today’s society and try it, should you have the opportunity during your trip.
How Arabic Coffee Originated
Although we often associate coffee with countries like Colombia or Brazil, the very origin of coffee is actually in the Arab world. Not surprisingly, the shrub from which the coffee beans currently consumed are obtained comes from the arabica coffee plant (Coffea arabica). Most likely, it began to be used as a beverage in Yemen, by Sufi monks in the 15th century, as caffeine helped them stay awake during their nocturnal vigils.
The very name of coffee appears to be an evolution of the Arabic word qahwah and from there to the Turkish kahveh, which could be translated as ‘stimulant.’ The rapid success of coffee took it to Mecca and to other countries in the Near East, including Egypt, where it has remained as a symbol of local culture.
How Arabic Coffee Is Prepared
Although today’s pace of life shortens and simplifies the time required for every process, if we adhere to a traditional preparation of Arabic coffee, in the manner of Bedouin nomads, these would be the steps:
- The whole coffee beans are roasted in a pan over a wood fire. It must be a light roast, at a temperature not exceeding 210°
- They are ground or crushed in another container, which can be done manually
- These small ground pieces are brewed in a metal coffee pot called a dallah, with water and optionally with some spice, mainly cardamom, but they can also be clove, cumin, or saffron, among others
- After minutes of brewing, it is served directly into the cup, unfiltered and black, without milk
Since the ground coffee beans remain at the bottom of the coffee pot, they do not usually reach the cup, but they do impart all their flavor and color, along with the notes provided by the added spices, which distinguishes Arabic coffee from others around the world.
How Arabic Coffee Is Served
One of the most characteristic aspects of Arabic coffee is the vessel in which it is consumed: it is served in a small cup without a handle, called a finjān. Therefore, it is held with all the fingers of the hand, in an unmistakable gesture. However, in Egypt, small cups with handles are also used, even transparent ones. The cup may also be decorated with classic Islamic motifs on the edges.
As a general rule, Arabic coffee is consumed without sugar, which achieves a very characteristic strong and bitter character, although it can also be added at the person’s request. What does provide sweetness is the accompaniment usually offered along with the coffee: dates or pieces of dried fruit. Nuts such as walnuts may also be offered.
Traditionally, the preparation and consumption of coffee was associated with gatherings of people who hold affection for one another, such as family or friends, or even for meetings to smooth over differences, reach agreements, etc. Hence, this moment is considered a display of generosity. So if you are fortunate enough to be part of such a gathering, savor every detail of the moment and the coffee.
