Safcha: The Emirati Twist on Matcha Making Waves at Saaf Cafe in Hatta

A unique Emirati beverage called safcha is offering UAE residents and visitors a caffeine-free alternative to matcha, rooted in the country's heritage. Served at Saaf Cafe, located inside Al Wadi Park in Hatta, safcha is made from dried palm fronds — a national symbol reimagined into a wellness drink.

The green-hued beverage mimics the health benefits and antioxidant-rich profile of traditional Japanese matcha. Still, it skips the caffeine, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious consumers and those sensitive to stimulants.

What is Safcha?

Derived from the Arabic word “saaf” (meaning palm fronds) and “matcha”, safcha undergoes a meticulous preparation process — the fronds are hand-selected, steamed, dried, and stone-ground into a fine powder. The result is a calming, earthy drink that resonates with both cultural pride and modern health trends.

“We discovered safcha during an exhibition in Saudi Arabia and immediately saw how it aligned with our mission,” said Mohammed Al Badwawi, brother of Saaf Cafe’s founder. “It fits perfectly with our goal of creating products based on the palm tree.”

A Menu Inspired by Hatta and Dates

Founded in 2024 by Ali Al Badwawi, a retired government official and former FIFA referee, Saaf Cafe serves as a tribute to Emirati heritage, with every aspect — from name to ingredients — inspired by the natural and cultural richness of Hatta.

The menu features a variety of date-based beverages and dishes, including:

• Coffee infused with date extract (Dh30)

• “Basr Juice” (fresh date juice)

• Spanish Latte with dates

• V60 with dates

• Date pizza, date tiramisu, and rutab (semi-ripe dates) cheesecake (Dh15–Dh45)

The cafe also produces natural personal care products, such as:

• Date oil for hair

• Facial serum and eyelash oil

• Date patches for eyes, feet, and joints

“Saaf Cafe is not just a business project; it is a contribution to the community,” said Mohammed Al Badwawi. “We want people to see the palm tree not just as a symbol, but as a source of nourishment, wellness, and inspiration.”

A New Emirati Attraction

Though Saaf Cafe initially faced challenges drawing visitors to its location within Al Wadi Park, support from the Dubai Municipality helped it become a local destination. The cafe now functions as both a restaurant and cafe, with two floors and an outdoor seating area, offering:

• Traditional Emirati breakfasts

• Family-friendly dining

• Dine-in and online ordering services

• Community events and initiatives

The concept has proved so popular that a new branch is in the works for Mirdif, Dubai.

With over 150 palm trees on the family farm supplying the core ingredients, Saaf Cafe stands as a shining example of sustainable entrepreneurship, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly to promote both Emirati culture and wellness.