Arabic Coffee
Arabic coffee, known as qahwa, is a central symbol of Saudi hospitality, served in small cups with dates and governed by elaborate customs.
Overview
Arabic coffee, known as qahwa (Arabic: قهوة), is a central element of Saudi and Arabian hospitality. It is a lightly roasted coffee, often flavoured with cardamom, saffron and sometimes cloves, and served in small cups without sugar.
Customs
The serving of coffee follows elaborate customs. The host pours with the left hand while holding the pot in the right, and the guest is expected to accept at least one cup. The cups are small and are refilled until the guest shakes the cup to indicate that they have had enough.
Cultural significance
Arabic coffee is served with dates and is offered at weddings, festivals and family gatherings. In 2015 the serving of Arabic coffee was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
References
- Arabic coffee, a symbol of generosity \u2014 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (accessed 5 October 2026)
- Coffee culture in Arabia \u2014 Saudi Ministry of Culture (accessed 5 October 2026)
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