Nestled between high-rise luxury apartments and tranquil waterfront views, Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi is becoming more than just a residential haven. It’s turning into a café lover’s paradise. From artisanal coffee to Instagram-worthy interiors, the island now boasts some of the best spots in the capital for a perfect cup of brew. Whether you’re a remote worker seeking Wi-Fi and calm, or a weekend explorer chasing flavors, here are 5 cafes in Al Reem Island that are worth your visit.
1. % Arabica – Reem Mall
Minimalist in design but bold in flavor, % Arabica inside the newly opened Reem Mall is a sanctuary for serious coffee drinkers. With its iconic white interiors, open coffee bar, and a global reputation from Kyoto to Dubai, the cafe offers a rich, creamy Spanish Latte that has quickly become a local favorite. You’ll find laptop-friendly seating and a chilled vibe that’s perfect for morning reflections or quick business chats.
Backlink: https://arabicacoffee.ae
2. Blacksmith Coffee Company – Shams Boutik
Tucked away inside the Shams Boutik complex, Blacksmith Coffee is one of those hidden gems that locals swear by. It has a rustic-industrial feel with exposed pipes, concrete counters, and a menu that balances strong brews with wholesome bites. The flat white here packs a punch, and the freshly baked banana bread pairs like a dream. It’s also pet-friendly, so expect a few furry companions lounging next to you on the terrace.
Backlink: https://www.instagram.com/blacksmithcoffeeco
3. Urban Retreat – Cove Beach
Yes, it’s part of a beach club, but Urban Retreat Café deserves its own shoutout. Situated at the water’s edge within Cove Beach on Al Reem, this café offers more than caffeine—it delivers a lifestyle. Their açai bowls and detox smoothies are perfect after a swim, and the latte art is a visual treat. The music is upbeat, and the staff greet you with the kind of warmth that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
Backlink: https://www.covebeachabudhabi.com
4. Tashas – Reem Mall
A household name in the UAE’s café scene, Tashas brings sophistication with every dish and sip. The outlet in Reem Mall is airy, classy, and perfectly styled for catch-up brunches or solo journaling. Their signature cappuccino and buttery croissants transport you straight to a European sidewalk café. The real star, however, is their menu—a fusion of comfort and luxury. Think smashed avo toast with truffle oil, and salmon benedict that melts in your mouth.
Backlink: https://tashascafe.com
5. Art House Café – Near Reem Central Park
For something a little offbeat and soul-stirring, Art House Café near Reem Central Park delivers art, coffee, and community all in one colorful burst. This artsy café is filled with eclectic decor, painted furniture, and a spirit of creativity. You can even paint your own plate while sipping on their signature iced mocha. It’s popular among students, artists, and families who come here for the relaxed ambiance and interactive vibe.
Backlink: https://www.instagram.com/arthousecafeme
Why Al Reem Island’s Café Culture Is Booming
The café boom on Al Reem Island reflects a larger trend—Abu Dhabi’s growing appetite for lifestyle-focused dining. With a younger demographic moving into the area and developments like Reem Mall and Cove Beach driving foot traffic, coffee shops are no longer just about caffeine. They’re about experience, environment, and escape. The mix of local entrepreneurs and international brands is raising the bar, pushing each venue to offer not just better food and drinks, but also better ambiance and service.
What Locals Love Most
Ask a resident why they keep returning to their favorite Al Reem café, and the answer is rarely just “the coffee.” It’s the sense of community, the reliable Wi-Fi, the smiling staff who remember your name, and the fact that every place feels like a mini-retreat from the city’s chaos. Some cafés even offer loyalty programs, pet-friendly seating, and themed nights like poetry readings or live acoustic sets. It’s not just coffee—it’s connection.
Planning Your Next Visit
If you’re heading to Al Reem Island soon, here’s a quick tip: weekdays before 11am are ideal if you want the place to yourself. Most of the cafés offer free parking in nearby structures or within the mall. Bring a book, a friend, or your laptop, and give yourself the treat of slow sipping in one of Abu Dhabi’s most scenic districts.
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, Al Reem Island’s cafés offer more than just lattes—they offer moments. And in today’s fast-paced world, that might be the best brew of all.
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