The coffee scene in Saudi Arabia is booming, with a significant rise in both consumption and coffee culture. This shift has led to the rapid growth of coffee schools across the kingdom. Saudi Arabia’s love affair with coffee dates back centuries, and now, as the country experiences a modern-day coffee renaissance, barista courses and coffee education have become highly sought after.

Saudi Arabia’s coffee history

Historically, coffee is deeply rooted in Saudi culture, with traditional Arabic coffee, known as Gahwa, playing a central role in social and cultural gatherings for centuries. Gahwa is typically made from lightly roasted coffee beans, often mixed with cardamom, saffron, and other spices, and is traditionally served in small cups, accompanied by dates. It holds a symbolic significance in Saudi hospitality, often presented as a gesture of welcome and respect. Whether in Bedouin tents in the desert or in the majlis (social sitting rooms) of urban homes, Gahwa has long been an essential part of Saudi life, fostering a sense of community and connection during family gatherings, celebrations, and important occasions.

While tea has also been a staple, particularly in northern parts of the country, coffee has steadily gained prominence in recent years. The younger generation, especially in urban centers like Riyadh, Jeddah, and the Eastern Province, has embraced a more modern and diverse coffee culture. Specialty coffee, espresso-based beverages, and international café chains have begun to shape a new wave of coffee consumption. Today, cafés and independent coffee shops are not just places to grab a quick cup of coffee but have evolved into vibrant hubs for socializing, working, and relaxing. This cultural shift has also given rise to a burgeoning specialty coffee scene, with local Saudi coffee brands and independent roasters gaining popularity for their high-quality beans and artisanal brewing methods.

As the appreciation for coffee deepens, so too does the demand for skilled baristas. The increasing number of barista training courses and certifications reflects this growing sophistication in Saudi Arabia’s coffee industry. These courses not only cater to the rising interest in specialty coffee but also support the development of a local coffee culture that honors both its traditional roots with Gahwa and embraces the modern, global trends in specialty coffee

The Rise of Café Culture and Specialty Coffee

Saudi Arabia is experiencing a remarkable surge in the number of specialty coffee shops, reflecting a broader global trend. What was once a café culture primarily limited to major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah is now rapidly expanding into smaller towns and regions, making high-quality coffee more accessible throughout the country. These specialty coffee shops are not only meeting the growing demand for premium espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes but are also setting new standards in the coffee experience. Many of these cafes are equipped with top-of-the-line espresso machines, grinders, and brewing tools from renowned global brands, ensuring precise and consistent coffee preparation.

In addition to their cutting-edge equipment, these specialty coffee shops are known for sourcing high-quality, single-origin beans from around the world, focusing on sustainability and the unique flavor profiles of various coffee-growing regions.

The emphasis on quality extends beyond the coffee itself, as many of these establishments take pride in their carefully curated interior designs. From sleek, modern aesthetics to cozy, minimalist spaces, these cafes offer more than just coffee—they provide an atmosphere that invites customers to linger, work, or socialize. With a focus on both craftsmanship and ambiance, these specialty coffee shops have elevated the coffee scene in Saudi Arabia, attracting a discerning clientele that appreciates the finer nuances of coffee culture.

As the coffee landscape in Saudi Arabia evolves, the demand for skilled baristas continues to rise. Many of these cafes now require baristas who are trained in advanced brewing techniques, latte art, and coffee bean selection, fueling the growth of barista training courses across the country. This combination of world-class coffee, state-of-the-art equipment, and beautifully designed spaces is reshaping the way Saudis experience and enjoy their coffee, making the specialty coffee scene in the kingdom a dynamic and rapidly growing industry.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Coffee Production and Global Expansion

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has seen significant growth in its coffee production, transforming the industry from a local market to one with global aspirations. This transformation was recently emphasized by Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Mansour Al-Mushaiti, during the International Coffee Expo in Jazan.

The Jazan Region

Located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, Jazan has become a leading coffee production hub. Here are some impressive facts about the region:

• Over 2,000 coffee plantations are actively producing coffee.
• More than 1,000 tons of coffee are harvested annually.
• The region has established itself as a center for coffee cultivation excellence, reflecting the dedication of Saudi farmers.

International Coffee Expo in Jazan

The expo has become a vital platform for promoting the Saudi coffee industry. It offers numerous opportunities for coffee growers to:

• Share knowledge and best agricultural practices.
• Attend seminars and workshops focused on innovation.
• Participate in cultural and artistic gatherings, encouraging the exchange of ideas.

Government Initiatives to Boost Coffee Production

Saudi Arabia’s government has launched several key projects aimed at supporting the coffee industry, as part of the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program:

• Construction of new coffee processing plants.
• Establishment of model coffee nurseries.
• Development of a pioneering coffee city.

These initiatives are designed to enhance production quality, support coffee farmers, and position Saudi Arabia as a significant player in the global coffee market.

Espresso Academy Riyadh – Bringing World-Class Barista Education to Saudi Arabia

In line with this growth, Espresso Academy Riyadh, part of the globally renowned Espresso Academy family, has become the premier destination for aspiring baristas in Saudi Arabia. This institution, with its roots in Italy, offers a comprehensive range of barista courses, from beginner-level training to advanced specialties.

Espresso Academy Riyadh is dedicated to shaping the future of coffee in the kingdom, providing hands-on training for those who want to master the art of coffee-making. Whether you’re interested in espresso extraction, latte art, or learning how to manage a coffee shop, Espresso Academy Riyadh offers the perfect training for you.

Courses Offered at Espresso Academy Riyadh are designed to provide a comprehensive and professional education in the art of coffee making, all while being certified by the internationally recognized Italian Barista Certificate (IBC). This certification ensures that students who complete the courses receive training that adheres to the highest global standards in the coffee industry. The IBC certification is a hallmark of quality, recognized around the world, and offers graduates a competitive edge in pursuing careers in specialty coffee.

Here are the courses available at Espresso Academy Riyadh:

• Barista Courses: This foundational course covers all the essential aspects of coffee making. From learning the intricacies of grinding beans to mastering the art of brewing and extracting the perfect espresso shot, students are trained to produce coffee that meets international quality standards. With IBC certification, graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in top-tier cafes, both locally and globally.
• Latte Art Courses: Perfect for those who want to elevate their coffee-making skills, this course teaches students the techniques of milk frothing and how to create stunning latte art patterns on cappuccinos and other milk-based coffee drinks. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your existing skills, this internationally certified course ensures that your artistic coffee creations are done to professional standards.
• Brew the World: In this exciting course, students explore a variety of brewing methods from around the globe, such as pour-over, French press, AeroPress, and more. Understanding how to bring out the unique flavor profiles of different coffee beans is key in the specialty coffee world. With IBC certification, you can confidently apply your knowledge in any café setting, knowing you’ve been trained to international brewing standards.

Coming Soon: Even More Specialized Courses

Espresso Academy Riyadh is continually expanding its offerings, with even more exciting and specialized courses set to launch soon, all certified by IBC:

• Roasting and Cupping Course: Delve into the art and science of roasting coffee beans, and learn how to evaluate different flavor profiles through cupping sessions. This course will prepare you to understand the complex relationship between roasting and taste, crucial for aspiring roasters.
• Green Coffee Course: Gain insights into the journey of coffee beans from farm to cup. This course focuses on sourcing, processing, and the critical role that green coffee plays in producing exceptional brews.
• Coffee Sensory Course: Hone your palate and learn how to evaluate coffee like a professional taster. You’ll be trained to identify subtle notes and flavors, a key skill in the growing specialty coffee market.
• Espresso Machine Technician Course: Understand the technical side of coffee making by learning how to maintain, repair, and fine-tune espresso machines. This course is perfect for those who wish to work behind the scenes or support the operational needs of cafes and coffee shops.
• Coffee Shop Management and Opening Course: If your dream is to open and run a successful coffee shop, this course will cover everything from business planning to customer service, all with the added benefit of being certified by IBC, making it a global standard in café management.

What sets Espresso Academy Riyadh apart is its commitment to quality through its IBC certification, making its courses internationally recognized. For those who want to build a serious career in coffee, whether as baristas, roasters, technicians, or café owners, the IBC certification is a prestigious qualification that opens doors worldwide, providing students with the skills, knowledge, and credibility needed to excel in the dynamic and growing coffee industry.

In addition to Espresso Academy Riyadh, which sets the benchmark for world-class barista training with its IBC certification, Saudi Arabia is home to several other coffee schools that are helping to shape the country’s growing coffee culture. These institutions offer diverse training programs in various aspects of coffee-making, from traditional Arabic techniques to modern specialty coffee practices. Here’s a look at some of the other notable coffee schools in the kingdom:

Other Notable Coffee Schools in Saudi Arabia

• Saudi Coffee Company Academy
  This academy focuses on bridging the gap between traditional Saudi coffee customs and modern barista techniques. Students here learn a well-rounded approach to coffee preparation, combining local traditions with global coffee trends.
• Camel Step Coffee Roasters Training Center
  Located in Riyadh, Camel Step is known for its dedication to specialty coffee. They offer brewing and roasting courses that emphasize high-quality coffee production, making it a great choice for those interested in learning the nuances of specialty roasting.
• Brew92 Academy
  Based in Jeddah, Brew92 Academy provides a range of barista training programs, including courses in espresso-making, brewing methods, and coffee appreciation. The academy is known for its modern approach to coffee education and dedication to specialty coffee.

These institutions, along with Espresso Academy Riyadh, are instrumental in driving the coffee revolution in Saudi Arabia. As the demand for high-quality, specialty coffee grows, so does the need for skilled baristas, making these schools vital to the continued development of the coffee culture in the kingdom.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with coffee consumption surging and café culture flourishing, Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts. As the desire for high-quality coffee experiences continues to grow, so does the demand for well-trained baristas and comprehensive coffee education. At the forefront of this movement is Espresso Academy Riyadh, offering world-class barista courses and IBC-certified programs for those who aspire to excel in the coffee industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your skills, Espresso Academy Riyadh provides the perfect platform to elevate your coffee expertise.