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Jumeirah has always done cafes well. Maybe it’s the low-rise streets, maybe it’s the beachy vibes, or maybe it’s the fact that people here genuinely like spending long mornings over coffee. Whatever the reason, this part of Dubai is home to some of the city’s most character-driven cafes.
Stomping Grounds, Jumeirah 1
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There’s a reason this place is a neighbourhood fixture. It bypasses the typical Dubai ‘glam’ for an industrial-chic aesthetic, think exposed ceilings, warm wood and the constant hum of an active roastery. Stomping Grounds feels like a proper Australian coffee house dropped into the heart of Jumeirah. It’s a serious destination for caffeine purists, their in-house roasted single origins are arguably some of the best in the city.
Rx Coffee Apothecary, Jumeirah
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True to its name, the aesthetic is clean and clinical in the best way with copper tones and an apothecary-inspired layout. The space is a masterclass in serene luxury for the coffee world, stripped back and cosy. Come for the expertly pulled shots, but stay for a brunch menu that nails the basics. It’s the ultimate spot to settle in with a laptop or a friend.
The Grey, Al Wasl
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The Grey sits comfortably between cafe and lounge. It’s a monochrome sanctuary on Al Wasl, trading the typical cosy cafe warmth for sharp lines, slate-grey tones and a mood that’s decidedly more “boutique lounge” than coffee shop. During the day, it’s a calm place for coffee meetings and solo visits. As the day progresses, it shifts into a more social setting, with an extended drinks menu and a relaxed atmosphere.
BRIX Café, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
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Set right by the water, BRIX Café has one of the most pleasant settings in Jumeirah. It’s casual, easygoing and perfect for having your coffee with a view. Desserts are a big draw here, especially if you’re in the mood for something indulgent but the coffee holds its own too. It’s ideal for slow weekends, post-beach stops, or when you want a break from the usual city humdrum.
Arabian Tea House, Jumeirah Archaeological Site
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Arabian Tea House offers something slightly different from the standard cafe experience. It’s a slow-paced venue dedicated to Emirati hospitality. Tucked within the Jumeirah Archaeological Site, it leans into traditional flavours, serving a wide range of teas alongside light bites and Arabic breakfast options.
Orto Café, Jumeirah
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Orto has slowly become a favourite for locals. Positioned right on the Dubai Canal, the space is defined by its massive glass walls and a clean, almost meditative Japanese-minimalist aesthetic. It’s remarkably quiet despite its cult status, offering a front-row seat to the water.
Kulture House, Jumeirah 1
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Part cafe, part community space, Kulture House is a creative corner in the middle of Jumeirah. Housed in a repurposed Jumeirah villa, Kulture House is a vibrant, multi-sensory escape that’s part-cafe, part-art gallery, and part-boutique. It’s a total rejection of the “clinical white” cafe trend; the interiors are a kaleidoscope of textures, patterns and artisanal finds. The vibe is inherently creative and communal.
Onda, Al Wasl
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Wondering where Dubai’s effortlessly cool crowd is hanging out? Odds are, they’re at Onda. Sleek, modern, and impossibly on point – from the interiors to the glassware to a menu that just gets it. They call themselves a neighbourhood replenishment bar, and honestly, we couldn’t have put it better ourselves. The menu? Curated by none other than Chef Jesse Blake of Lowe fame – so you already know it’s going to be exceptional.
Beyond the polished marble and the beachfront views, Jumeirah’s real charm lies in its “third spaces.” From industrial roasteries to minimalist sanctuaries, the neighbourhood’s best cafes aren’t just places to caffeinate; they are reflections of the area’s eclectic, laid-back character.
Image credit: @honoryouronda on Instagram
Mariam Khawer is a Dubai-based writer and PR professional whose work spans food, art, and travel across the region. When she isn’t chasing deadlines, she’s likely at a gallery opening, testing out a new restaurant, piecing together one of her mixed-media art projects or at home with her four cats, who keep her on her toes.
