As temperatures begin their upward climb in the UAE, residents are swapping their hot lattes for cooler, lighter options, and one green superfood is making a refreshing comeback this season: matcha.

Hailing from Japan, matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. But beyond its aesthetic appeal and Instagram-worthy appeal, matcha is loaded with health benefits that make it a must-have for the summer season.

Why Matcha Is the Summer Superdrink

Whether you’re dodging the midday heat or looking for a clean energy boost during your mall crawl, here’s why matcha deserves a spot in your daily routine:

Natural Energy Without the Crash
Unlike coffee, matcha delivers caffeine slowly, thanks to its high L-theanine content. That means longer-lasting alertness without the post-latte slump or jitters, ideal for surviving Dubai’s high-octane lifestyle.

Cooling and Detoxifying
Packed with chlorophyll, matcha naturally helps detoxify the body, cools you from within, and supports hydration, perfect for coping with the intense summer heat.

Antioxidant Powerhouse
Matcha has over 100 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. It supports immunity, protects skin from sun damage, and keeps that summer glow going strong.

Stress-Reducing Zen in a Cup
The calming effect of L-theanine makes it a perfect antidote to city stress, promoting mental clarity and reducing anxiety.

Where to Get Your Matcha Fix in Dubai

Here are some top spots across the city serving top matcha:

1. % Arabica – Multiple Locations

Famous for its sleek interiors and minimalist menu, % Arabica offers a smooth and earthy matcha latte that fans swear by. They have outlets in Dubai Mall, Al Safa, Al Barsha and other places in the city.

2. Boon Coffee Roasters – JLT & DIFC

Boon’s premium matcha lattes are made with ceremonial grade powder. Go for their iced oat milk version for a guilt-free summer pick-me-up.

3. Seven Fortunes – Al Quoz

Known for its artisan approach, this local coffee roaster serves a signature iced matcha that blends rich flavour with chill vibes.

4. The Grey – Al Wasl

This trendy cafe not only nails the aesthetic but also offers a creamy iced matcha latte that’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious, also give their matcha colada a shot.

5. Rx Coffee Apothecary – Jumeirah

For a health-first twist, this wellness cafe offers a matcha latte with adaptogens and plant-based milks—perfect for the nutrition-conscious crowd.

6. Wild & The Moon – Alserkal Avenue

Organic, plant-based and oh-so-cool. Their matcha options range from smoothies to iced lattes—ideal after a gallery stroll.

7. Origami The Valley 77, Al Khawaneej

Tucked away in the brand-new Origami at The Valley 77 makes an exclusive matcha tiramisu which is earthy, elegant, and everything a summer dessert should be.

8. Chaihona Marina

Indulge in Chaihona Marina’s refreshing lineup of iced matcha drinks, from the zesty Matcha Tonic Yuzu to the tropical Matcha with Mango and Coconut and the ever-so-smooth Ice Peach Matcha Latte. Paired with waterfront views by the scenic Dubai Marina, these vibrant blends are your go-to for the perfect golden-hour sipping.

9. Onda – Cloud Nine in a Cup

Matcha just got a pastel makeover at Onda. Think banana, pistachio, strawberry, blueberry, and lavender cloud matcha drinks, all topped with airy matcha foam and aesthetic enough to stop you mid-scroll. Don’t miss their Matcha Burnt Cheesecake, featuring a molten matcha custard core, silky textures, and a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. And for a bite-sized treat that still hits the spot. Don’t miss their chewy Matcha Cookie, soft, rich, and the perfect green companion to your drink.

Top Matcha Spots in Abu Dhabi

1. % Arabica – Yas Mall & Marina Mall

A global favourite known for its sleek design and Japanese influence. Their matcha latte (hot or iced) is smooth, strong, and not overly sweet—just how matcha should be.

2. Blacksmith Coffee – Al Reem Island & Al Nahyan

Trendy, modern and always buzzing. They serve up a creamy iced matcha latte that hits the spot, especially paired with their signature pastries.

3. Rain Café – Al Muroor

A hidden gem with a cult following, Rain is known for its high-quality beverages, and its iced matcha latte is a summer must-try. Don’t skip their matcha cheesecake!

4. Joud Coffee – Al Bateen & Ministries Complex

A popular spot for creatives and professionals. Their matcha latte is well-balanced, and they offer dairy-free milk options too.

5. Notorious Café – Al Raha Beach

Super aesthetic and big on wellness. They serve matcha lattes with a twist—like coconut or oat milk blends—and even matcha-infused desserts.

6. Space Café – Al Nahyan

A cozy spot that’s ideal for work or quiet hangs. Their iced matcha is vibrant and mellow, with earthy notes and a velvety finish.

7. Ten 11 Coffee Boutique – Multiple Locations

One of Abu Dhabi’s most stylish homegrown cafes. Try their signature iced matcha latte with a splash of vanilla—it’s refreshing without overpowering the matcha.

8. Fix Dessert Chocolatier – Al Qana

This place makes the most creative dessert chocolates in Abu Dhabi, but their matcha menu is also elite. Think matcha lattes, matcha croissants, and even a dreamy matcha lava cake.

9. Art House Café – Al Bateen

Creative vibes and handcrafted drinks. Their matcha options are artistic, often served with beautiful latte art and custom flavour add-ons.

10. TRIO – Corniche Road

This homegrown cafe is a local favourite in the capital, loved for its inventive matcha menu. Try creative blends like the marbled strawberry or vibrant blueberry matcha, or go bold with the malty cereal matcha—a nostalgic twist that’s as fun as it is flavorful.

Make matcha at home

Too hot to go out and want to make refreshing matcha at home? You could stock up on ceremonial-grade matcha from stores like Spinneys, Organic Foods & Cafe, or Kinokuniya at Dubai Mall for premium Japanese imports.

In a city that never slows down, even if the temperature has crossed 40°C, matcha offers a refreshing pause. So this summer, skip the sugar-loaded frappes and say yes to green. Your body will thank you.