Discover the Charm of Desert Cafés in Dubai
Dubai is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, featuring world-class restaurants, sprawling shopping malls, and stunning skyline views from rooftop bars. However, an enchanting experience awaits in the serene deserts surrounding the city, where you can enjoy a delightful cup of specialty coffee amidst picturesque dunes and breathtaking mountain views. Some of these desert cafés provide tranquil settings for roasting marshmallows by an open fire, while others offer vibrant live performances and captivating fire shows. Interestingly, many of these spots are adorned with mirrors, adding a whimsical touch to the atmosphere.
While some of these cafés may require a bit of a drive, the journey is undoubtedly worthwhile. Here are some of the cutest desert cafés you should visit:
Hidden Café at the Al Marmoom Desert
Credit: Hidden Desert Café
If you’re in the mood for an iced coffee or a refreshing matcha while gazing at stunning dunes, Hidden Café is the perfect hideaway. Located near Al Marmoom Heritage Village, this cozy desert café offers a range of specialty coffees, rich hot chocolate, and delectable doughnuts. For the best experience, plan your visit around sunset to capture breathtaking photos for your Instagram feed. And don’t forget to indulge in their marshmallow fire pit experience—it’s truly worth it.
Open: Sun-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. Location: Fort Lisal, Al Marmoom. Contact: @hidden_dubai (050 152 3864).
Limited at the Al Marmoom Desert
Credit: Limited
Limited is a stunning desert café that overlooks the mesmerizing Al Marmoom Lakes, providing a perfect backdrop for your visit. This lakeside gem is the result of a collaboration between local businesses, including Bound Burgers, Sillage, and Stuffed Bun. Enjoy a delightful range of treats, from gourmet hotdogs and burgers to expertly brewed coffee and sweet desserts. Keep an eye out for a painting signed by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
Open daily from 4pm-11pm. Location: Al Marmoom, Al Qudra Desert. Contact: @limited.dubai
Link by Mara at the Margham Desert
Credit: Link by Mara
Located at Wasl 51 Jumeirah, Mara Restaurant & Lounge has introduced a charming pop-up in Sharjah’s desert that offers an extensive menu featuring everything from grilled dishes to Japanese-style kushiyaki. Settle into the cozy sunken areas and enjoy the stunning sunset views while savoring an array of delectable dishes.
Open daily from 4.30pm-3am. Location: Al Jada – Muwaileh Commercial. Contact: @linkbymara (050 871 9882).
My Space at the Nazwa Desert
Credit: My Space
Take advantage of the delightful weather at My Space, where you can enjoy coffee, delicious cakes, and an impressive fire show. This family-friendly destination also features a children’s play area, a camel ride experience, and the opportunity to meet a falcon, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the desert adventure.
Open daily from 3pm-1am. Location: Nazwa Sharjah. Contact: @myspace.cafe
One Degree Café at the Margham Desert
Credit: One Degree
One Degree Café boasts a beautiful winter pop-up in the Margham desert, famous for its deep red dunes. Located just about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai along the Dubai-Hatta road, this café offers a stunning desert backdrop. Treat yourself to premium coffee and a selection of delightful bites, including their famous campfire desserts and marshmallow treats.
Open: Mon-Thu 3pm-1am, Fri-Sun 5pm-3am. Location: Sharjah Sustainability City. Contact: @onedegree.ae
Parker’s Desert Café at the Al Marmoom Desert
Credit: Parker’s
Parker’s is a beloved café that has gained popularity not only in Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also in Saudi Arabia and even London. This iconic café has found a beautiful new home in the Al Marmoom desert, offering all-day dining with a menu that features scrumptious breakfasts, specialty coffees, and a relaxed boho-chic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind in the desert.
Open: Mon-Thu 4pm-midnight, Fri-Sun 4pm-1am. Location: Al Marmoom, Al Qudra Desert. Contact: @parkers (054 307 1733).
Uncommon at the Al Qudra Desert
Credit: The Uncommon
Uncommon is one of the more upscale desert cafés, featuring expansive mirror walls, rolling dunes, comfortable seating, and Instagram-worthy coffee presentations. This is a must-visit spot for those looking to sip coffee while capturing beautiful moments for their social media.
Open daily from 4pm-1am. Location: Al Marmoom, Al Qudra Desert. Contact: @theuncommon.ae
Hungry? Here’s where to eat in Dubai
- Dubai’s newest restaurants to try: Explore the latest culinary openings that are sure to delight your palate.
- All the restaurants and bars at Palm West Beach: Check out these spots for a lovely outdoor dining experience.
- Where to get the best business lunch deals in Dubai: Discover midday lunch deals that are both satisfying and affordable.