From Dubai to London
Heaf didn’t begin as a coffee concept. It began as a gesture.
Founded in Dubai in 2021, the brand takes its name from an old Bedouin tradition: heaf is the host’s first sip of coffee, taken before serving guests to prove the brew is worthy. It’s a quiet but powerful symbol of trust, generosity and pride – and the philosophy that shaped everything that followed.
What sets Heaf apart is its “duologic world”, inspired by the two forces that have shaped Emirati life for centuries: the desert and the sea.
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Souq Badr channels the desert – still, grounded and protective – echoing the form of the Bedouin tent (bayt al-shar), a place of gathering and welcome. Marsa Al Arab looks to the sea, referencing traditional wooden boats and harbours, symbols of movement, trade and exploration. Together, they tell a story of contrast and balance: patience and progress, roots and horizons.
The brand has grown carefully, treating each opening as a new chapter rather than a repeat performance. There’s a sense of purpose to the way Heaf moves – thoughtful, measured and quietly confident. Its community, often referred to as its “tribe”, has formed naturally around shared values: quality over quantity, meaning over noise.
It’s this restraint that’s made Heaf stand out in Dubai’s crowded coffee scene.
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Now, Heaf is stepping beyond the UAE, with its latest opening in London marking a major milestone. Rather than adapting its identity to fit in, Heaf brings its story with it – translating Emirati hospitality for an international audience without diluting it.
In an age of copy-paste cafés and viral gimmicks, Heaf feels refreshingly grounded. It’s not about trends or theatrics. It’s about intention, tradition and doing things properly – starting, always, with that first sip.
Image credit: @heafhouse on Instagram
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
