As the winter breeze gently sweeps over the United Arab Emirates, the desert transforms into a canvas of warmth and wonder.
Imagine sipping on your favorite coffee, surrounded by golden dunes, under a blanket of stars. It’s the magic of winter pop-up cafes in the UAE.
These offbeat gems are not your typical coffee stops; they’re cozy oases in the desert, inviting you to unwind, catch up with friends, and soak in the chill vibes.
Let’s dive into the best winter pop-up desert cafes that promise a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Not A Space
A mere hour’s drive from Dubai, Not A Space emerges as a versatile desert pop-up in Al Faya. Beyond its name, it offers more than just a cafe; it’s a haven for nightly entertainment, art classes, and fitness activities. The themed space, adorned with mirrors and moonlit images, creates a dreamy ambiance perfect for a night out beneath the stars. Not A Space is open 24 hours a day, ensuring you can escape into the desert magic anytime.
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My Space Coffee
Head to My Space Coffee in Al Madam, Sharjah for an evening under the stars. You can enjoy coffee amidst the desert’s vastness at this celestial spot. Whether you opt for outdoor seating or snuggle into futuristic mirrored boxes, the experience promises a soothing blend of coffee, sweet treats, and captivating desert vistas.
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The Uncommon
An unexpected marvel in the Sharjah desert, The Uncommon, with its large mirrored centerpiece, reflects the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Open daily from 3 p.m. to midnight, this pop-up offers cozy seating and a selection of hot and cold beverages, making it a popular choice for those seeking a picturesque desert escape.
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Klock Cafe
Centered around a captivating brightly lit clock, Klock Cafe, located on the road to Lahbab, presents a winter wonderland serving marshmallow-topped hot chocolates, Spanish lattes, and karak tea. With swinging seats, resident falcons, and an array of delectable desserts, Klock Cafe is an Instagrammable oasis open daily from 4 p.m. to midnight.
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One Degree Cafe
Located in the Sharjah desert near Margham, One Degree Cafe brings a traditional Arabian experience with camels, Bedouin tents, and live entertainment. With a menu featuring favorite One Degree coffees, shakes, burgers, and desserts, this winter pop-up is a charming spot with daily activities, including fire shows and live oud music.
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Caia Bamboo
An extension of Box Park’s Caia Cafe, Caia Bamboo is a boho-inspired pop-up near Al Qudra camping ground. Open daily from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., it offers serene lakeside seating, billowing canopies, and a pretty water fountain. Caia Bamboo is an ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with nature amid the desert’s tranquility.
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Sonara Camp
With locations in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, Sonara Camp elevates the desert experience with fine dining, camel rides, falconry, live music, and fire shows. The sunset experience and dinner packages provide a luxurious escape, making it a must-visit for those seeking an opulent desert adventure.
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Link by Mara
Situated in the Sharjah desert, Link by Mara offers plush seating options to enjoy a street food menu while watching nightly fire shows and oud musicians. With a diverse menu featuring mini beef tacos, shakshuka bruschetta, and more, Link by Mara invites you to savor the flavors of the desert under the open sky. Open daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. (3 a.m. on weekends).
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Hidden
Hidden, an off-the-grid desert pop-up cafe, has become an Instagram sensation with its boho vibes, rope deck chairs, campfires, and mirrored installations reflecting the picturesque surroundings. Surrounded by palm trees and plush cushions, Hidden offers a serene escape for coffee enthusiasts and social media enthusiasts alike.
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Mikoko
Transport yourself to Zanzibar at Case Mikoko in Umm Al Quwain Mangrove Beach. Overlooking the mangroves, Mikoko offers a menu featuring breakfast favorites, pizza, pasta, and risotto. Adventure activities such as mangrove tours and kayaking complement the dining experience. Mikoko Hut is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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