UAE presents caffeine-free matcha twist: Discovering the Emirati adaption of 'safcha', drawing inspiration from palm trees
In the heart of Hatta's Al Wadi Park, a new culinary sensation has emerged. Saaf Cafe, an Emirati concept inspired by the palm tree, is serving up a refreshing, caffeine-free drink called Safcha. This innovative beverage, a blend of 'saaf' (Arabic for palm fronds) and matcha, offers a natural, vegan alternative to traditional matcha and reflects Emirati heritage and identity.
Saaf Cafe, established in 2024 by Ali Al Badwawi, a retired government employee, former FIFA referee, and former member of the UAE Football Association, is more than just a business project. It is a contribution to the community, as stated by Mohammed Al Badwawi, Ali's brother. The cafe functions as both a cafe and a restaurant, featuring two floors and an outdoor space, providing a unique dining experience suitable for all ages.
The idea for Safcha was discovered during an exhibition in Saudi Arabia. The drink creatively reimagines palm fronds into a healthy beverage, establishing a unique Emirati twist on the popular green tea drink. The drink is green, and its production is inspired by the Japanese tea method. Safcha mimics the properties of matcha, providing a heavy pour of antioxidants and nutrients without caffeine.
The cafe's menu is not just limited to Safcha. It promotes the culture of using dates by presenting them in various forms. From date pizza and rutab (semi-ripe dates) cheesecake to date tiramisu, prices range from Dh15 to Dh45. The Al Badwawi estate supplies the dates used to produce the beverages and food items served at the cafe, as they have more than 150 palm trees on their family farm.
Saaf Cafe also offers personal care products such as date oil for hair, facial serum, eyelash oil, body oil, and date patches for eyes, feet, and joints. The cafe serves as a visitor attraction in Dubai Municipality's Al Wadi Park at Hatta, and a collaboration with the local municipality helped turn it into a popular destination.
In addition to dine-in services, Saaf Cafe offers online ordering, and soon, a new branch will open in Mirdif, Dubai. The cafe blends traditional and modern atmospheres, providing a comfortable space for all. Saaf Cafe also organises events and initiatives aligned with local culture, such as dedicating special hours for only women.
Saaf Cafe is ideal for those looking for a calming drink or an earthy local flavor. With its unique blend of Emirati heritage and wellness, Safcha is set to become a staple in the UAE's culinary scene.
- Saaf Cafe, a unique culinary concept serving Safcha, a caffeine-free drink made from saaf and matcha, is not only a business but also a community contribution.
- The cafe's menu expands beyond Safcha, featuring various date-infused dishes like date pizza, rutab cheesecake, and date tiramisu.
- In addition to food, Saaf Cafe offers personal care products like date oil for hair, facial serum, eyelash oil, body oil, and date patches.
- Apart from the Hatta location, Saaf Cafe is set to expand with a new branch opening in Mirdif, Dubai.
- For those who prefer online services, Saaf Cafe also offers online ordering.
- The cafe, divided into two floors and an outdoor space, creates a unique dining experience that is suitable for all ages.
- Saaf Cafe is an ideal destination for those seeking a calming drink or an earthy local flavor, reflecting Emirati heritage and identity.
