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The best coffee shops to visit in Dubai

The best coffee shops to visit in Dubai

Time Out Dubai20-05-2025

A caffeine fix isn't hard to find in Dubai; in fact, you're actually spoilt for choice.
The city is showing no sign of slowing down either, as more and more coffee shops keep popping up on the regular.
Starting early, you can grab an iced latte as early as 6am in some places and as late as 1am in others (that has to be decaf, surely).
You might also like: 13 amazing iced matcha lattes to try in Dubai
Whether you're looking for a quick cuppa as a pick-me-up, a lazy afternoon coffee date with friends or family, or simply a steaming cup of coffee solo to accompany you while you work or read, these are some of our favourite coffee shops in Dubai to check out.
The best cafes and coffee shops in Dubai
21grams
Credit: 21grams
The place to go for Balkan food in Dubai, 21grams is a cute spot that's popular for lazy weekend breakfasts, midday meals and relaxed dinners with friends and family. In an unassuming location in Meyan Mall, the décor is chic with neutral tones, while there's a terrace boasting Burj Al Arab Jumeirah views, too.
Dig into homely dishes including Balkan mezze, cevapi (wagyu beef kebabs) and hearty breakfasts, while lighter plates include summer moussaka and chicken bone broth. It's all delicious at one of the best cafés in Dubai.
Mon-Wed, 8am-5pm, Thurs-Sun, 8am-11pm. Meyan Mall, Umm Suqeim, 21grams.me (050 841 5021).
Air Speciality Coffee
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops (Credit: Air Speciality Coffee)
Sourcing speciality coffee blends from around the world, coming here regularly means sipping on new flavours of coffee every time you visit. Oh, and tucking into some tasty puddings, too. Coffee blends come from major farms in countries like Kenya and Ethiopia – each with its distinct fruity tastes – alongside homegrown specialities, such as homemade almond milk, there certainly is something special about this suave coffee house.
Sun-Thu 7am-11pm, Fri-Sat 8am-midnight. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeira 3 airspecialitycoffee.ae (04 321 3555).
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops (Credit: Alchemy)
Alchemy specialises in coffee that's sourced from ethical single farms. We do love an ethical queen. With a mission of providing quality coffee while supporting coffee farmers' communities around the world, the menu features speciality brews and sweet treats like tahini brownies, cookies and buns. Also that pool will just put you in the most relaxed mood.
Sun-Thurs 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat 8am-midnight. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 2 alchemydubai.com (04 344 2466).
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops (Credit: Amongst Few)
Located on Wasl Road in the heart of Jumeirah, this seriously cool café is ideal if you're after an expertly-made flat white along with a wholesome (and highly Instagrammable) meal. There are heaps of vegan options on offer too: don't miss the banana pancakes to go with your cuppa.
Open daily from 9am-9pm. Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 1, amongstfew.com (04 236 0031).
Arabian Tea House Café
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Arabian Tea House Dubai)
This cool tea house is set in the historic Al Fahidi district in Bur Dubai and is a top spot if you're looking to show visitors the cultural side of Dubai.
Arabian Tea House Café is a large courtyard with plenty of seating for arty types, locals and tourists. Although it is a tea house (and it has more than 100 varieties of tea on offer) there's also plenty of coffee to try, as well as traditional Emirati cuisine. Don't miss the Emirati breakfast for a true experience.
Daily from 7am-11pm. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai, arabianteahouse.com (04 353 5071).
Avantcha
Smell over 150 varieties of teas with unique ingredients like chocolate, chilli, caramel, honeybush and more.
The space also has a café curated by Chef Reif Othman. Expect matcha drinks, iced teas and tea-infused desserts and pastries.
Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Kunooz 6th street, Warehouse 19 Al Manara St – Al Quoz 1, avantcha.com (04 338 9114).
Backyard
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Backyard)
This aesthetic Jumeirah café opened in early 2023 and serves up speciality coffee as well as a small menu of sandwiches, and smoothie bowls for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
When you're there, try the truffle bun, made with fluffy scrambled eggs, chives, truffle mushrooms, and rocket leaves, sandwiched between a brioche bun. If you love a matcha latte, this is one café you won't want to skip.
Daily from 7am-11pm. Al Manara, Umm Suqeim 2, Jumeriah @bckyrd.ae (054 311 1951).
BohoX
Spread over two floors, with spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas and plenty of greenery, BohoX is a café with something for everyone. Its all-day breakfast offering is a top attraction, with everything from shakshuka and croque monsieur to a Mediterranean bowl and keto breakfast.
There's also sandwiches, salads, small plates and a wide array of mains, including truffle risotto, grilled chicken, cheese burger and orzo paella. Somehow, you'll need to save space for dessert, too. For generous portions and a laid-back vibe, this is a top pick.
Open daily from 9am-1am. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai boho-x.com (052 103 2646).
BKRY
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. Credit: BKRY
BKRY in Alserkal Avenue offers a stunning space serving up a selection of unique pastries, freshly baked goods and speciality coffee. Described as 'not just a bakery', BKRY is 'an experimental bake space' founded by Kameel Rasyid, who is also the head chef.
Expect artisanal baked goods created right in front of your eyes made using grains processed inside the bakery. And while the baked goods take centre stage, there's a substantial breakfast menu and lunch and dinner on offer, turning this bake space into a full-service restaurant.
Pastries feature croissants made with Tanzanian milk chocolate, candied orange, or caramelised miso paste. You can also get sourdough bread with roasted garlic and rosemary or focaccia with kalamata black olives.
Open daily from 8am-10pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz @bkry.space.
Boon Coffee
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Boon)
Roasting coffee and brewing up speciality blends runs in the family at this coffee spot, with the founder's roots planted in Ethiopia – you know, the country with some of the best coffee beans in the world? Boon Coffee offers up brilliant cuppas, whatever you're looking for, from V60 and Syphon to Aeropress and French press. Hot or cold, with a dash of Ethiopian honey or an Africano, the unique brew you're after is here.
Sun-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat 8am-7pm. Multiple locations, booncoffee.com (04 430 2775).
Bonds
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Bonds)
Not named after 007, this Wasl Road café is all about getting together and bonding as friends. With a huge coffee menu that features cold brews, V60, lattes and more, you'll have plenty of java options to choose from.
The menu at Bonds doesn't fall short, either. Think platters of scrambled eggs, avo on toast and pastries. Breakfast is available until 2pm, so all those wanting a lie-in will still be able to enjoy a tasty brekkie in the afternoon, too.
Open daily from 8am-midnight. Wasl Road, Al Manara, Jumeirah @bondscoffee (04 251 5008).
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Boston Lane)
Inspired by the Melbourne laneway coffee culture, this stunning, compact coffee shop in a pretty courtyard in the heart of Dubai's Al Quoz serves up breakfast, lunch and toasties. And most importantly it does a cracking cup of coffee. There are breakfast bowls and granola alongside salads, wraps and sandwiches, plus there are vegan dishes galore to keep the plant-based diners happy. Don't miss the magnificent toasties, the cheese and garlic version is a winner. One of the cutest coffee shops in Dubai.
Daily from 8am-7pm. The Courtyard, Al Quoz courtyard-uae.com (054 449 2131).
Brew Café
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: Supplied)
Along the stretch of Jumeirah Beach Road, it will be worth your time to take a pit stop at this chic café. Boasting a slew of speciality coffees with a range of milk and add-ons, grab a cuppa and enjoy lounging in its cute space. Throw in its homemade pastries, plentiful sweet treats and some chia pudding, and that's your morning off to a very good start.
Mon-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 7.30am-10.30pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 2 (04 331 2333).
BRIX Café
Dubai's coolest cafés and coffee shops. (Credit: BRIX Café)
Located in the idyllic Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, BRIX Café is Dubai's newest place to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of speciality coffee, baked goods, and an excellent all-day breakfast.
Offering a laid-back atmosphere that encourages you to relax and watch the world go by, the harbourside café is helmed by pastry chef Carmen Rueda Hernandez, who is behind the café's freshly baked breads, pastries, desserts and more. Served with dreamy views over the Arabian Gulf waters, you will love every second you spend here.
Open daily, 8am-11.30pm. Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, brixdessert.com/café (054 515 7861).
Café Kitsuné
(Credit: Supplied)
If you need some good caffeine to keep you focused, make sure to head to Café Kitsuné on Al Wasl for the day.
The drinks menu is one to take note of. If you like something different, try the three-layer matcha or the pink foam latte.
8am-11pm daily, H Residences, Al Wasl, maisonkitsune.com (04 232 2398).
Café Rider
If you want something a little different from your usual run-of-the-mill coffee shop, we recommend you check out Café Rider.
Half café, half custom motorcycle shop, it's a combination you won't get in many other places. Watch sparks fly in the garage through a glass partition as you enjoy a spot of lunch.
The coffee is also worth sticking around for, as the café has its own in-house roastery.
Open daily 8am-8pm, Warehouse 7 14B Street, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, caferider.com (04 321 4411).
Cassette
(Credit:Supplied)
Designed to be a creative space, you might get some of your best work done here. A cosy spot in Al Quoz, the café mixes different cultures in its food, coffee and music, making for a fun, vibrant space.
The menu is all Parisian-inspired dishes, from a truffle potato Lyonnaise, to a vegan lobster burger and an espresso moose – yum.
Keep an ear out for the playlists throughout the day, as the team has worked hard to specifically curate the right music to promote new and upcoming artists.
Open daily 8am-6pm, The Courtyard, 4B Street, Al Quoz 1, cassette.ae (04 349 1966.)
Comptoir 102
(Credit: Supplied)
All about living organically, set up your office from Comptoir 102 and get some healthy snacks to keep your brain well-fed and focused.
As well as being a clothing shop and organic grocery store, the café inside the Jumeirah villa is a stunning spot to spend the day.
(Kitchen) open daily 8am-9.30pm, 102 Beach Road, Jumeirah, Jumeirah 1, comptoir102.com (04 385 4555).
Common Grounds at Kite Beach
(Credit: Common Grounds)
This family-friendly café is one of the most beautiful in Dubai. Located at Nessnass Beach, it is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee or a pastry by the water. Your best bet is to get there early, especially on a weekend morning when you may end up queuing.
From the team behind Tom&Serg, Common Grounds prides itself on its coffee, as the name suggests. Describing itself as a 'speciality coffee shop with a big heart'. Whether you're after breakfast, lunch or a cup of caffeine to fuel your swim, this is one beach café you don't want to miss experiencing.
Open daily 6am-10pm, 59 Al Hadd St, Jumeirah 3, eatx.com (050 196 7165).
Delizie Gourmet
(Credit: Supplied)
Located at the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, Delizie Gourmet is an authentic Italian café with pretty stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline and Ain Dubai as a backdrop. The breakfast menu includes a selection of dishes from the oven, fruit and cereals and Delizie signatures. Inside the classic café, you'll find a display of Italy's favourite pastries and desserts.
At lunchtime, the window display selection will change to a classic Italian deli counter with freshly baked individual slices of pinsa, focaccia and classic Italian croissant sandwiches. You'll love the Italian coffee here, too.
Daily from 8am-8pm. Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, Dubai Harbour, deliziecaffegourmet.com (058 514 0400).
Drinkit
This is one of Dubai's digital-first cafés. Nestled in Dubai Marina, simply place an order at one of the kiosks found inside or via its app. Change your milk, add syrups and toppings with ease, pay, and before you know it, the coffee is ready to drink at the pick-up counter. Great if you're in a hurry.
Open daily from 7.30am-11.30pm. 34PW+HMM Gate Residence 1 – Dubai Marina @drinkit.uae
Drop Dubai
(Credit: Drop)
This uber-trendy speciality coffee shop isn't just known for its high-quality coffee, it's also popular for its Instagram-friendly aesthetic.
Consider yourself a coffee connoisseur. You'll be well-catered for here as its menu includes everything from bottled cold brews to creamy lattes and concoctions we can barely even pronounce. One of the coolest coffee shops in Dubai.
Open daily from 10am-10pm. Al Khawaneej Walk 1, ( 04 501 6390).
East West
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A true hidden gem, East West is a coffee shop located in the heart of Dubai's modern cultural district, The Courtyard in Al Quoz. Look for the easy-to-miss wooden doors and head upstairs to this little, relaxed haven. The menu is small, but the coffee is great.
Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri-Sun 9am-9pm. The Courtyard, Al Quoz courtyard-uae.com (04 336 6444).
Ferment Artistry Café
Say hello to Ferment Artistry Café. A more recent addition to Al Quoz, the hidden gem, has a cosy but industrial feel and has a range of different brews available. What's more, head up the stairs once you've finished your latte and check out the art gallery that features various works on rotation.
Tues-Sun 9.30am-7.30pm. Al Quoz Industrial Area 3 (055 146 7186).
Friends Avenue
(Credit: Supplied)
Pick any table at this waterfront spot in JLT, any time of day, and chances are there will be a screen perched atop it. The merry mood makes for a bustling setting, so if you consider yourself a creative type, this is where the juices will flow.
And they'll even find their way into your cup, with boosters and smoothies a crowd favourite alongside hearty and healthy breakfasts to suit all kinds. Logging in now, boss.
Open daily 7am-10.45pm. Fortune Executive Tower, JLT, friendsavenue.ae (04 554 5813).
Hoof Café
If you like a minimal aesthetic, Hoof is for you. Originating in Sharjah, discover this speciality coffee café on the second floor of Dubai Mall. Enjoy the creamiest of matchas and, of course, coffee in a stunningly scented space — trust us when we say you'll feel instantly calm.
Open daily, 8am-midnight. Hoof café, Dubai Mall, thedubaimall.com.
HOYA
HOYA is a multi-storey villa located in Jumeirah that's designed to look like a lush garden inside and out. Each floor offers something different – from secret doors to a little library and even a plant studio. On the ground floor, you'll have the opportunity to dine on Mediterranean dishes while browsing a library full of books.
Make sure you keep an eye out for the secret bookshelf door, which slides open to reveal a hidden garden showcasing a picturesque pond. If you head up to the mezzanine floor, you'll come across a plant shop where you can buy a potted plant or a little succulent. Cute.
Mon-Thurs 10am-11pm, Fri-Sun 10am-midnight. Villa 1901-A, Al Manara @hoya.uae (04 346 8986).
IYKYK
(Credit: IYKYK)
This gorgeous Jumeirah villa is picture-perfect in every corner. Hidden inside a flower studio and concept store called Villa Aumedan, IYKYK is a beautiful café with trendy interiors and a zen-inducing, crystal-clear swimming pool. Once you're done with your morning coffee, you can then browse through the store and get yourself a pretty bouquet of flowers. A great way to start any day.
Sun-Wed 10am-midnight, Thurs-Fri 10am-1am, Sat 10am-12.30am. Jumeirah 1, near Mercato Mall @iykyk.ae.
Knot
Credit: Knot
Knot Bakehouse in Dubai's Jumeirah is a family-run bakery and café known for much more than croissants. Open daily from a bright and early 6.30am to midnight, this stylish, industrial-chic spot serves everything in-house, from sourdough and babka to shakshuka, Sicilian flatbreads and creative desserts like mango chia pudding.
Drinks get a fun twist too, with foamy tops on iced tiramisu lattes or sea salt vanilla matcha. Whether you're after a spiced pastry, a hearty sandwich, or just a cosy matcha moment, Knot Bakehouse is where it's at.
Open daily from 6.30am-midnight, open daily. Al Athar Street, Jumeirah, Dubai. knotbakehouse (04 263 1915).
Konkrete
This very aesthetic Jumeirah Beach Road café is all about minimalism. Grey colours, concrete floors, sunken pods and sleek lines. It's an Instagrammer's dream spot. Here, you'll get to enjoy a selection of speciality coffees, matcha lattes and a small menu of desserts. It even has its own dedicated parking lot.
Mon-Thu 8am-10pm, Sat-Sun 8am-midnight. Umm Suqeim 2, Jumeirah koncretespace.com (050 607 4227).
Kulture House
Another gem in Jumeirah, the café is an '80s Emirati villa transformed into a cultural melting pot and coffee shop.
Showcasing some art part-time and covered with minimalist furniture, the walls and shelves are all decorated with souvenirs and items from the owner's trips abroad.
If you're eating there, make sure to try one of the desserts – you won't be disappointed.
Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-8pm, 106 Jumeirah Street, Jumeirah 1, kulturehousedubai.com (04 399 1790).
La Nena
(Credit: Supplied)
La Nena Coffee in Al Quoz is a gorgeous and aesthetic café/furniture store that serves up decent coffee and a selection of bites like bagels, croissants and sandwiches. It's also pet-friendly. Win.
Mon-Sun 8am-10pm. Al Quoz, lanena-home.com (058 570 0809).
Lila Molino + Cafe
The new addition to Alserkal Avenue is the little sister of Lila Taqueira, bringing a new all-day dining vibe. Downstairs, you can shop for local Mexican produce and crafts before heading upstairs for a home-brewed coffee and a selection of treats from enchiladas to homemade tortilla chips.
Tues – Sun 8am-6pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz (04 388 5600).
Lazy Cat
Credit: Lazy Cat
The restaurant with the signature blue cat is finally open in Dubai. Hailing from Kuwait and popular in Saudi Arabia, Lazy Cat is famous for its fluffy Japanese pancakes and eye-catching blue matcha. Its décor manages to be playful and very cool at the same time, while its location in Al Quoz Pond Park affords the new café plenty of lush greenery and space.
Add to this dishes like dreamy egg and glorious biscuit (yes, lots of the menu items have quirky names) for brekkie and its unique style of pizza for dinner, not to mention those pancakes, and it's easy to see why Lazy Cat has quite the following already.
Open daily from 7am-1am. Al Quoz Pond Park, Ghadeer Al Tair @eatlazycat (04 345 2542).
LOWE
Credit: LOWE
This cool spot in Al Barari is one of the best cafés in Dubai and is popular with families in the area for a lazy breakfast or casual lunch, and dinner.
A home-grown café, you can look forward to friendly service and tasty plates, plus plenty of coffee to pair with a delicious cake.
An open kitchen preps interesting dishes with a combination of Middle Eastern and Japanese flavours, while the fully loaded burger is always a popular choice. It's licensed, too, so you can order a beverage to go with your meal.
Wed-Thurs, 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sun, 8am-4pm, 6pm-11pm. KOA Canvas, Al Barari, lowe-dubai.com (04 320 1890).
Lulu and the Beanstalk
A funky spot to get some work done, this DIFC café wears many hats, as it's also a bar and a bookstore. Settle down on one of the winding green couches and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
In your lunch hour, you can even browse the bookstore, or stay after you've clocked off and unwind with a beverage from the bar.
Mon-Thurs 8am-11pm, Fri 8am-1am, Sat 11am-midnight. ICD Brookfield Place, Trade Centre, DIFC, lulusbean.com (04 268 8664).
Maisan15
Credit: Maisan15
This hip spot is part art gallery, part café and attracts a cool, laid-back crowd. With a cute terrace out the front, with an eclectic array of furnishings, it's a quirky spot for a chilled-out coffee. Breakfasts are popular with everything from eggs to pancakes, avo toast to açaí, while burgers, salads and pizzas populate the main course menu.
There's a Middle Eastern touch throughout (think shawarma pizza et al) while artwork inside rotates frequently, meaning there's always something interesting to catch your eye.
Open daily, 8am-11pm. Al Barsha, @‌maisan15 (04 244 7291).
Mille Miglia Gallery
Mille Miglia Gallery and Café in Al Quoz is stocked up with F1 memorabilia, swish Ferrari cars and signed items by the current drivers, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.
Don't miss the original pit wall that was used between 2017 and 2021. 👀
This café serves up speciality coffee, iced drinks and sweet treats.
Open daily, 10am-9pm. Plot No. 29-0, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Quoz, mmgallery.ae
NAC
Credit: NAC
This Mayfair import, officially known as North Audley Cantine, is a rather fancy café with a modern French menu and bistro vibes. There are separate menus for the daytime and evening (it's open until 11pm in the week and midnight at the weekend), as well as a breakfasty-brunch type menu available Friday to Sunday.
Small sharing plates are the focus, with winners including flamed aubergine with miso, popcorn chicken, crushed burrata and a torched cauliflower. Don't be disheartened by the small selection of desserts – the crushed milk chocolate cookies with Frosties soft serve is all you need.
Mon-Thu noon-12.30am, Fri-Sun noon-1.30am. The H Residence, Al Safa 1, nacdubai.com (04 373 0000).
Namelaka
We're still not over how cute this spot is. Namelaka in Dubai Hills Mall is an Instagram-lovers paradise, serving up some incredible pasties and cakes in the all-pink cafe. Enjoy a speciality coffee or stuffed croissant as you swing on one of the hanging chairs inside.
Sun-Thurs 8am-midnight. Fri-Sat 8am-1am. Dubai Hills Mall (054 369 8369).
NETTE
Credit: NETTE
A former winner of Time Out Dubai's Best Café award, super-cool coffee shop NETTE can be found in trendy Al Quoz. Specialising in French-Japanese fusion food, there's plenty to like about this spot, which is tucked away inside Matcha Club, making it ideal for a post-padel breakfast or catch-up coffee.
Dig into overnight oats, egg sando or a Japanese breakfast skillet in the morning and later in the day, turn your attention to a miso croquette madam or yuzu ponzu crispy salmon. A hip place that's perfect for a chilled-out coffee and one of the best cafés in Dubai.
Open daily, 8am-10pm. Match Club, Al Quoz, @‌nettedxb (04 548 8369).
NETTE Al Barari
New restaurants in Dubai. Credit: NETTE
Much-loved homegrown brand NETTE has opened a second location, bringing its signature French-Japanese flavours and calming aesthetic to Al Barari. Designed as a retreat in nature, the new café blends tasty food, wellness, and a chill atmosphere.
Under the creative direction of culinary director Craig Small, the refreshed all-day menu features dishes like okonomiyaki omelette, hot honey chicken burger and French onion ramen, alongside fresh juices, smoothies, and coffee by 42 Coffee Roasters.
Surrounded by lush gardens, with a serene indoor-outdoor design and a curated lifestyle shop, NETTE Al Barari offers a peaceful escape from city life.
Open daily 7am-8pm. Al Barari, Dubai. nette.ae (04 329 4800).
(Credit: NightJar)
This trendy coffee shop in the arty area of Al Quoz could almost be in London's Shoreditch, it's that cool. A proper hipster joint, it's a top spot for a coffee when you're wandering around the galleries in Alserkal Avenue. The coffee is roasted and brewed on-site and the gorgeous smell will hit you as soon as you enter.
The industrial space fits in perfectly in the city's arty quarter, and the long benches, while not that comfortable to sit on for a long period of time, work perfectly with the stripped-back room and with the kind of food coming from the kitchen.
Daily from 9am-10pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz nightjar.coffee (050 365 1120).
Nomad Day Bar
If you're looking for a quick bite, a caffeine boost or a long and chilled afternoon, head to Nomad Day Bar, where you can meet, eat and drink. The all-day café is operated by the aforementioned super Nightjar Coffee Roasters and also provides several creatively designed meeting rooms and special packages for co-working.
Daily from 7am-10pm. 25hours Hotel One Central, Trade Centre Street, nomaddaybar.com (04 210 2522).
Number Five
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This Wasl Road villa is all about a minimalist aesthetic. Featuring plenty of white open spaces and marble countertops with clean lines, Number Five is a perfect escape into a quiet and clinical (but in a good way) environment.
If you're the type of person who likes everything neat and organised, this is one Jumeirah café for you. Order from a range of speciality coffees and delicious flaky pastries.
Mon-Thu 8am-10.30am, Fr-Sun 8am-11pm. Wasl Road, Al Manara Jumeirah @numberfive.ae (04 880 0899).
Oath
This Jumeirah café is located inside a flower boutique on Al Wasl Road and serves delicious matcha lattes. The beautiful space is where you want to go for a laid-back, ice-cool sip. Choose your milk, and the baristas will make a matcha latte, which you can enjoy with your dessert of choice.
Sun-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri 4pm-10pm. Jumeirah 1, Dubai @oath.ae.
One Life Kitchen & Café
Besides having delicious food, the homegrown concept sources speciality-grade coffee beans from different origins including Ethiopia, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Brazil, Burundi and Colombia. The speciality grade coffee by Machete, One Life's own coffee roastery, is roasted on the mezzanine floor in its D3 branch.
The café offers artisanal coffee, cold brews and positive vibes. Customers can opt in for their favourite classics, as well as V60, Chemex and French Press.
If you're sensitive to lactose, One Life also offers a variety of non-dairy alternatives, including house-made almond milk.
Daily from 8am-11pm. Dubai Design District, onelifedxb.com (04 513 4727).
Orto Café
A peaceful coffee shop with floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the Dubai Canal is a place we want to be. Orto serves speciality coffee, matcha lattes and a selection of desserts.
With its clean aesthetic and minimalist design, this calming space is a perfect spot to enjoy good-quality coffee in a beautiful location.
Daily from 10am-2am. 395 Al Athar St, Jumeirah 3, @ortodubai (04 345 5060).
Paus;
(Credit: Paus)
As the name might suggest, this quaint café in Umm Suqeim is a great place to relax and unwind. The central theme of the menu is described as 'pleasurable nourishment', so you can enjoy a healthy slice of carrot cake along with your favourite caffeine hit.
What sets this place apart is its community vibe, with exercise classes and healing treatments taking place upstairs, along with a co-working space hub for those 'work from anywhere' days.
Open daily 7am-10pm. Villa 1202, Al Reef Villas, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2. pausdxb.com (04 266 5329).
Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar
A modern Japanese bakery, Pekoe is a top shout if you're after a chilled-out weekend morning in Dubai.
Nestled away in the hip Alserkal Avenue, this relative newcomer to the bakery scene is impressing diners with its slick interiors and joy-bringing baked goods.
Don't miss the bread and spread – to choose your own slices and toppings, while unique takes on classic croissants are fun and tasty.
Open daily from 7am-9pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, mypekoe.com (04 359 3553).
Peet's
Known for its rich blends and artisanal beverages, Peet's Coffee has flocks of residents across the city of Dubai, across iconic destinations such as Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, and City Walk.
The brand is now coming to JBR. From signature roasts to handcrafted drinks including your favourite lattes, brews and refreshers, its expansive menu also features the signature Havana cappuccino, Spanish latte, cortado, caramel frappe and organic matcha latte.
Open daily, 6.30am-3.30am. Peet's, The Walk, Amwaj Walk 1, JBR (050 429 5638)
(Credit: Supplied)
This place isn't just a coffee house, it's one of the few places in Dubai that roasts its own beans. Sourcing premium green beans from all corners of the globe, RAW Coffee Company offers locally roasted, organic and ethically traded beans.
All the coffee beans have been roasted in small batches and are available in either single origins or blends. It also delivers, so you can enjoy the coffee from this Dubai coffee shop at home.
Daily from 7.30am-6pm. Al Quoz, Al Manara rawcoffeecompany.com (04 339 5474)
Rx Coffee Apothecary
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Painstakingly sourced, expertly poured coffee is what this place is known for and with good reason – the speciality brews are best-in-class.
The desserts found in the 'Soul' section of the menu shouldn't be skipped over, though, not least because of the light and fluffy, fabulously creamy Parklane cheesecake, Ultimate Cookie Therapy option (yes, please), and slices of peanut butter and chocolate slab cake.
Sun-Thu 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat 8am-12am. Al Athar St, Jumeirah 3, rxcoffee.ae (04 348 1567). Various other locations.
Sereni-tea
The sister café of the popular Tania's Teahouse, Sereni-tea (get it?), is tucked inside a holistic wellness centre on Al Manara.
If you're feeling a little stressed with work, this might be the place to head to. Step inside and let the calming vibes and healing teas help you out.
The menu is also a good one, filled with organic dishes and foods that aid the gut.
Open daily 7am-8pm. 9 Street 29B, Al Manara, taniasteahouse.com (058 598 2642).
Southpour
This City Walk-based coffee shop brings you the cosy aesthetics of a cool East London café and serves up incredible locally-roasted coffee.
But there's more to Southpour than just coffee, you also get matcha lattes, homemade juices and freshly baked daily pastries. The guys who launched Southpour are from the same hospitality group behind the widely successful Pickl, BonBird and 1762 Deli, so you know you're getting something good.
The venue has both indoor and outdoor seating in the heart of City Walk, which makes it a nice little spot to meet up with friends or get some work done. Southpour's coffee beans are traceable back to farms in Ethiopia and Uganda before being blended right here in Dubai.
Mon-Thu 7am-11pm, Fri-Sun 7am-1am. City Walk @southpour.mena
(Credit: Stomping Grounds)
Stomping Grounds is one of the best coffee shops in Dubai. Serving Dubai's own speciality batch Coffee, this cosy and homey Australian coffee hub in the heart of Jumeirah 1, is always buzzing.
Open daily 7.30am-12.30am. Jumeirah 1 stompinggrounds.ae (04 344 4451).
Surge Coffee Roasters
(Credit: Stomping Surge Coffee Roasters)
Prefer your coffee black as the night? Or white as the milk that's put into it? Whatever way you like to sip on a cuppa, rest assured, Surge Coffee Roasters has the perfect brew you're after. There's V60 and cold drip black coffees, along with piccolos and flat whites with coconut or almond milk.
And, if you're after something more local, there's even a special Emirati blend to sip on. Enjoy your drink whilst nibbling on Surge Coffee Roaster's truffles, croissants and chocolate chip cookies.
Open 24/7, Al Khawaneej, (054 307 7275).
Susan's Baking Company
(Credit: Susan's Baking Company)
From flaky apple pies to creamy banana puddings, Susan's Baking Company is offering the taste of an authentic American household to foodies in Dubai. Think freshly baked goods and comfortable seating, both indoors and outdoors.
You'll feel like you're in Susan's home city, Chicago, enjoying cakes that are baked traditionally from inherited family recipes. We can also vouch for Susan's Taro Latte and the Rhubarb Pancak,e topped with dreamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberries.
Mon-Fri 7am-10pm, Sat-Sun 7am-midnight. Downtown, Dubai susansbakingco.ae (04 375 3281).
The 100 Café
Credit: Surge Coffee Roasters
The 100 Café, located inside the Hundred Wellness Centre on an unassuming Jumeirah 1 street, offers a delicious daily menu of healthy dishes and plenty of vegan options. Try the speciality coffee, medicinal teas or one of the many fruit smoothies (order the Jumeirah Jane if you love mango). The tranquil light-flooded café is surrounded by lush greenery and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Open Sat-Thu 8am-6pm. 53b Street, Jumeirah 1, thehundred.ae (04 344 7333).
The Barnyard
Only opening in November 2023, there's a good chance you haven't checked out the Barnyard yet, and you should.
Encouraging you to live healthy and happy, the café can serve you up some nutritious dishes while you work on that report.
Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, you can hunker down and spend the entire day here if needed.
Mon-Thurs 8am-10.30pm, Fri-Sun 8am-11.30pm. Next to Dubai Hills Estate Business Park 3, Dubai Hills, thebarnyard.me
The Espresso Lab
(Credit: The Espresso Lab)
It's never just a simple espresso to go at this homegrown Dubai coffee shop (it's called a lab for deliciously experimental reasons, after all).
Of course, you can get the definition of what a fine espresso should be, but there's a range of variations, including the three-way iced espresso with foamed milk, the signature orange citrus-infused speciality espresso catalyst, or the affogato, a speciality coffee with gelato.
There are even seasonal cuppas for special occasions. We'll gladly participate in these experiments.
Daily from 7.30am-10pm. Building 7, Dubai Design District. theespressolab.com (050 421 1188).
The Grey
(Credit: The Grey)
Defining itself as 'the centre, the space, and all the grey areas in between', this achingly cool Al Safa café covers a lot of bases, and all of them well. With a cosy courtyard open in the evenings and weekends (so as not to disturb the neighbouring offices), there's also an outdoor seating area at the front to sip a cuppa and ponder the meaning of life.
Coffee comes in an earthen-style, handle-less cup sitting upon a slab of grey slate, and it's a robust, smooth blend.
Mon-Thur 7.30am-11am, Fri-Sun 8am-midnight. Al Wasl Road, Al Safa, the-grey.co (04 236 2996).
The Pods
Want to try coffee in a real ice block in Dubai?
The Pods on Bluewaters Island has launched a new summer experience where you can get any latte, cappuccino, affogato and more served in a unique way.
It might not be the best cup for a takeaway, so make sure you sip away in the air-conditioned pods and cool down from that summer heat.
Mon-Fri 7am-1am. Sat-Sun 7am-2am. Bluewaters Island. thepods.ae (04 453 8994).
Toby's Estate
(Credit: Toby's Estate)
Toby's Estate, located on Jumeirah Beach Road in a very chic villa, features stylish interiors and a zen garden, perfect if you just need a bit of time away from all the craziness. The coffee menu offers up premium blends like the 'Woolloomooloo' for espresso, and 'African mist', which is perfect for cold brew.
Plus, you can enjoy a traditional brunch with plenty of baked goods and savoury options.
Mon-Thu 7am-11pm, Fri-Sun 8am-midnight. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2 dubaihillsmall.ae (04 392 9917).
(Credit: Supplied)
This long-standing spot in Al Quoz is a big hit with families. As well as offering loads of tasty dishes (breakfasts are especially popular), the coffee is also excellent. A popular coffee shop in Dubai that's well worth stopping into if you're in the area.
Sun-Thu 8am-4pm, Fri-Sat 8am-6pm. Al-Joud Centre, Al Quoz, eatx.com (056 474 6812).
To The Moon and Back
(Credit: TTMB)
Located underneath the Dubai Canal bridge, this eccentric café nestled close to the water exudes a super cosy ambience. Look closely and you'll notice space-themed art and memorabilia hanging around the venue.
It's a quiet spot, making it a great place to work. The speciality coffee is exceptional, and the food menu features a selection of tasty breakfast and lunch dishes.
Daily from 7am-11pm. Al Athar Street, Jumeirah 3 (04 388 8414).
Tonton
New restaurants in Dubai. Credit: Tonton
Tonton, a new bakehouse by Basil Yassin, owner of YAVA, is now open, serving up freshly baked pastries. From traditional croissants to the delicate vanilla caramel mille-feuille, and a signature TonTail – a unique twist on the classic sfogliatella.
Known for its flaky layers and creamy filling, the sfogliatella is a must-try for pastry-lovers. Open all day, you can also head there for freshly brewed coffee and plenty of other treats.
Tues-Sun, 8am-8pm. Wasl 51, Al Wasl Road (058 998 5272)
Villa Margot
Located deep in Jumeirah on Al Uroubah Street, Villa Margot is a beautiful concept store and flower shop selling seasonal bouquets and more.
The captivating space is also home to a little café where coffee, teas and a selection of sweet and savoury treats are served.
The bright furniture and mismatched pieces are definitely a vibe. Head to this Jumeirah café for a quiet afternoon read.
Sat-Thu 10am-8.30pm, Fri 10am-6pm. Al Urouba Street, Jumeirah 2 margot.ae (04 881 5654).
Wandr
The new cafe in JLT is serving up 'fast food, slowed down', giving you some healthier versions of the classics. Inspired by dishes from across the world, it's full of unique flavours to get your teeth into.
Whether you fancy a Filipino pandesal ice cream or a mushroom shawarma, the lakeside café's got it all. Don't forget to try the rainbow matcha too.
Daily noon-10pm. Cluster T, JLT. wearewandr.com (055 161 1003).
XO Coffee Boutique
(Credit: Supplied)
It's the first 'open bar' speciality coffee shop concept in the UAE, and the baristas at this nice and cosy space can certainly whip up an art-centric hot cuppa. Coffee beans here are sourced from Italy, Spain and Hong Kong. In fact, the Emirati owners were the first to bring the world-roasting-champion – Gardeli's (Italy) – beans to the UAE.
While there are plenty of artsy hot and cold coffees to sip on, there are also freshly-baked cookies, brownies, croissants and the signature XO loaf bread – one not to be missed.
Mon-Thur 6am-10pm; Fri 6am-midnight; Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Carmel Building, Al Khawaneej, xocoffee.ae (04 268 8483).
(Credit: Supplied)
Wandering around Old Dubai and in need of a coffee stop? Amid the labyrinthine alleyways that make up Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, you'll find this quirky little café inside the retro XVA Art Hotel.
The walls are adorned with striking art, and there's a tree in the courtyard, making it the sort of place where you'll want to relax and chill. The hotel also houses a gallery that hosts regular exhibitions that feature a range of key Middle Eastern artists, plus the food is vegetarian-friendly.
Daily from 7am-9.30pm. XVA Art Hotel, Bur Dubai, xvagallery.ae (04 353 5383).
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106 best breakfasts to try in Dubai 2025
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Dubai brunch reviews: 64 top brunches, tried and tested
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Bulgaria shows even citizens of small nations reject the euro
Bulgaria shows even citizens of small nations reject the euro

Telegraph

time38 minutes ago

  • Telegraph

Bulgaria shows even citizens of small nations reject the euro

Bulgaria is slated to be the newest member of the Eurozone. The European Commission and European Central Bank (ECB) released statements today that effectively confirmed Bulgaria's adoption of the euro on January 1 2026. Bulgaria's entry extends the currency bloc from 20 to 21 members and builds on the nation's 2007 decision to abandon the lev as its official currency; the year it joined the EU. Bulgaria's adoption of the euro reflects its ability to overcome problematic economic indicators. Bulgaria was initially expected to become a Eurozone member in 2024, but its 9.5 per cent inflation rate scuppered these aspirations. Bulgaria's harmonisation with ECB policies is expected to lower its inflation rate to 1.8 per cent by 2026 and ensure its alignment with the EU's price stability criteria. Bulgaria's debt-to-GDP ratio has declined since 1998 and stands at just 24.1 per cent. While Bulgaria's ability to transcend demographic decline and political dysfunction to meet the EU's criteria appears inspiring, there is a darker side to the story. Bulgaria's adoption of the euro overrules public opinion and underscores the sovereignty concerns that the EU's smaller member states have about the bloc's supranational authority. Despite projections of a 5.8 per cent increase in Bulgaria's exports after it joins the euro, opposition to the common currency is fierce. A recent Eurobarometer survey revealed that 50 per cent of Bulgarians reject the euro and only 43 per cent are in favour of it. Bulgarian pensioners fear that pricing goods in euros will erode their life savings and their younger counterparts share their concerns about a loss of independence. Incoming Polish president Karol Nawrocki's sovereignty-based opposition to swapping the zloty for the euro resonates strongly in Bulgaria. The disconnect between elite decision-making and public opinion on the euro has threatened political cohesion by galvanising pro-Russian populist movements. Varazhdane Party leader Kostadin Kostadinov, who recently signed a cooperation agreement with president Vladimir Putin's United Russia Party, has capitalised on anti-euro sentiments and rallied thousands of like-minded Bulgarians on the streets of Sofia. As Bulgaria has had seven parliamentary elections since 2021 and lacks the ability to form a durably stable government, this dispute has serious destabilising potential. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the potential for anti-vaccination disinformation to spread widely in Bulgaria and the euro's adoption over the public's will could further erode trust. While EU officials celebrate Bulgaria's milestone acceptance of a common currency, the mood in Sofia is much more sombre and apprehensive. This is yet another reminder of the growing discontent between Brussels and the European street.

The euro is about to get a new member. What does that mean?
The euro is about to get a new member. What does that mean?

The Independent

time6 hours ago

  • The Independent

The euro is about to get a new member. What does that mean?

The European Union has given the green light for Bulgaria to become the 21st member of the euro currency union. The decision on Wednesday allows the Balkan nation of 6.4 million people to replace its national currency, the lev, with the euro, effective January 1. The move is a key step in the EU's ongoing project to strengthen the connections between its member countries. Here are basic facts about the currency union - also called the eurozone - and how countries join it. What is the euro? The euro is a shared currency and monetary system launched in 1999 when 11 EU member countries irrevocably fixed their currencies to the euro as an accounting currency, then swapped out the national notes and coins in 2002. The EU established the European Central Bank to handle monetary policy and set interest rate benchmarks for member countries, similar to the role of the U.S. Federal Reserve. How do countries join the euro? Countries must meet four criteria: low inflation, keeping deficits and debt under control, low long-term interest rates and a stable exchange rate between their currency and the euro. Countries must go through a two-year 'waiting room' in which their currency does not fluctuate excessively against the euro. The process is meant to demonstrate that their economies are sustainably converging with that of the eurozone. Once the European Commission determines that requirements have been met, the member governments of the EU decide by what's called a qualified majority vote. Approval needs a minimum of 55 per cent of member states representing at least 65 per cent of the EU population. After joining, countries face rules limiting debt and deficits. Those rules are intended to keep countries from running large deficits that could undermine the euro. What is Bulgaria's situation? The European Commission ruled on Wednesday that Bulgaria has met the requirements, seconded by an opinion from the ECB. The matter now goes to a vote at a meeting of EU finance ministers slated for July 8. EU officials say the vote is a done deal. Bulgaria is unusual in that it pegged its currency, the lev, to the euro right from the beginning of monetary union in 1999, even before it joined the European Union in 2007. Bulgaria also has very low levels of debt, only 24.1 per cent of annual economic output. That is well below the 60 per cent level set in the economic criteria for eurozone membership. The last step was getting inflation below the benchmark of 2.8 per cent, or no more than 1.5 per cent higher than the average of the three lowest eurozone members. There were concerns about the level of corruption and money laundering in the EU's poorest country. The commission and the ECB found, however, that Bulgaria has made progress in those areas. What do people in Bulgaria think about the euro? The most recent Eurobarometer poll carried out by the EU showed that 50 per cent of Bulgarians were opposed and 43 per cent were in favour. Reasons include fears of inflation, distrust of official institutions in a country that has had seven governments in four years, and widespread misinformation on social media. The issue has been taken up by pro-Russian nationalist politicians who argue for keeping the national currency. President Rumen Radev stoked anti-euro forces with a proposal for a referendum, which was rejected by parliament. Misinformation included false claims that the euro would allow EU officials to confiscate dormant bank accounts or use a digital euro to control people. On January 1, only euros will be dispensed from cash machines, though both currencies will circulate in cash for a month. After that, lev notes can be exchanged at banks for 12 months and for an unlimited time at the Bulgarian National Bank. What are the advantages of euro membership? In theory, the euro means lower interest rates for business and consumers and eases cross-border trade within the eurozone. Companies no longer have to engage in currency exchange transactions or worry that exchange rate shifts will erode their profits or holdings. Travellers no longer have to pay commissions at an exchange booth or on their credit card bill when vacationing or on a business trip to another EU country. Member countries get a seat on the ECB's rate-setting council and so have a voice in eurozone-wide monetary policy. Are there disadvantages or risks? Countries that join lose some authority over their own economy. They give up their ability to set their own interest rates, and face restrictions on government spending and deficits, though those rules have proved flexible in practice. And they can no longer gain competitiveness relative to other countries by allowing their currency's exchange rate to devalue. Bitter memories remain of the debt and economic crisis that shook the eurozone in 2010 to 2015. After Greece admitted its deficit and debts were much larger than previously reported, it wound up defaulting on its debts, and market turmoil spread to other eurozone countries. Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Spain, and Cyprus were bailed out with loans by the other eurozone governments, in return for strict austerity measures that impacted many ordinary people, including government workers and retirees. Has the euro been strengthened since then? ECB President Mario Draghi is credited with defusing the eurozone crisis in 2012 by saying that the central bank would do 'whatever it takes' to save the euro. The ECB then said it could intervene in bond markets to support countries hit by turmoil, a safeguard that calmed markets even though it was never used. Later, other backstops were added, including a eurozone bailout fund and moving banking oversight from sometimes-lax national supervisors to the ECB. Why aren't all 27 members of the EU in the euro? Countries agree to join the euro as part of joining the EU, but not all have made the effort to meet the economic requirements. There is no time window to join. Denmark was granted an opt-out, while Sweden rejected the euro in a 2003 referendum despite not having an opt out and has no target date to join. Other non-members are Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Romania. Officials in Poland, the biggest non-member, have shown little interest in joining despite acknowledging the obligation to join someday. The winner of Sunday's presidential election, Karol Nawrocki, campaigned on keeping the zloty currency. The country's economy has grown strongly without euro membership, doubling in size over the past two decades as its standard of living has almost caught up with Western Europe since emerging from communist rule in 1989.

The euro is about to get a new member, Bulgaria. What's the eurozone and how do countries join?
The euro is about to get a new member, Bulgaria. What's the eurozone and how do countries join?

The Independent

time8 hours ago

  • The Independent

The euro is about to get a new member, Bulgaria. What's the eurozone and how do countries join?

European Union officials gave the green light Wednesday for Bulgaria to become the 21st member of the euro currency union,, a key EU project aimed at deepening the ties between member countries. The Balkan country of 6.4 million people is to make the switch from its national currency, the lev, to the euro on Jan. 1. Here are basic facts about the currency union, also called the eurozone, and how countries join it. What is the euro? The euro is a shared currency and monetary system launched in 1999 when 11 EU member countries irrevocably fixed their currencies to the euro as an accounting currency, then swapped out the national notes and coins in 2002. The EU established the European Central Bank to handle monetary policy and set interest rate benchmarks for member countries, similar to the role of the U.S. Federal Reserve in the U.S. How do countries join the euro? Countries must meet four criteria: low inflation, keeping deficits and debt under control, low long-term interest rates and a stable exchange rate between their currency and the euro. Countries must go through a two-year 'waiting room' in which their currency does not fluctuate excessively against the euro. The process is meant to demonstrate that their economies are sustainably converging with that of the eurozone. Once the European Commission determines that requirements have been met, the member governments of the EU decide by what's called a qualified majority vote. Approval needs a minimum of 55% of member states representing at least 65% of the EU population. After joining, countries face rules limiting debt and deficits. Those rules are intended to keep countries from running large deficits that could undermine the euro. What is Bulgaria's situation? The European Commission ruled Wednesday that Bulgaria has met the requirements, seconded by an opinion from the ECB. The matter now goes to a vote at a meeting of EU finance ministers slated for July 8. EU officials say the vote is a done deal. Bulgaria is unusual in that it pegged its currency, the lev, to the euro right from the beginning of monetary union in 1999, even before it joined the European Union in 2007. Bulgaria also has very low levels of debt, only 24.1% of annual economic output. That is well below the 60% level set in the economic criteria for eurozone membership. The last step was getting inflation below the benchmark of 2.8%, or no more than 1.5% higher than the average of the three lowest eurozone members. There were concerns about the level of corruption and money laundering in the EU's poorest country. The commission and the ECB found however that Bulgaria has made progress in those areas. What do people in Bulgaria think about the euro? The most recent Eurobarometer poll carried out by the EU showed that 50% of Bulgarians were opposed and 43% in favor. Reasons include fears of inflation, distrust of official institutions in a country that has had seven governments in four years, and widespread misinformation on social media. The issue has been taken up by pro-Russian nationalist politicians who argue for keeping the national currency. President Rumen Radev stoked anti-euro forces with a proposal for a referendum, which was rejected by parliament. Misinformation included false claims that the euro would allow EU officials to confiscate dormant bank accounts or use a digital euro to control people. On Jan.1, only euros will be dispensed from cash machines, though both currencies will circulate in cash for a month. After that, lev notes can be exchanged at banks for 12 months and for an unlimited time at the Bulgarian national bank. What are the advantages of euro membership? In theory, the euro brings means lower interest rates for business and consumers and eases cross-border trade within the eurozone. Companies no longer have to engage in currency exchange transactions or worry that exchange rate shifts will erode their profits or holdings. Travelers no longer have to pay commissions at an exchange booth or on their credit card bill when vacationing or on a business trip to another EU country. Member countries get a seat on the ECB's rate-setting council and so have a voice in eurozone-wide monetary policy. Are there disadvantages or risks? Countries that join lose some authority over their own economy. They give up their ability set their own interest rates, and face restrictions on government spending and deficits, though those rules have proved flexible in practice. And they can no longer gain competitiveness relative to other countries by allowing their currency's exchange rate to devalue. Bitter memories remain of the debt and economic crisis that shook the eurozone in 2010-2015. After Greece admitted its deficit and debts were much larger than previously reported, it wound up defaulting on its debts and market turmoil spread to other eurozone countries. Greece, Portugal, Ireland, Spain, and Cyprus were bailed out with loans by the other eurozone governments, in return for strict austerity measures that impacted many ordinary people including government workers and retirees. Has the euro been strengthened since then? ECB President Mario Draghi is credited with defusing the eurozone crisis in 2012 by saying that the central bank would do 'whatever it takes' to save the euro. The ECB then said it could intervene in bond markets to support countries hit by turmoil, a safeguard that calmed markets even though it was never used. Later other backstops were added, including a eurozone bailout fund and moving banking oversight from sometimes-lax national supervisors to the ECB. Why aren't all 27 members of the EU in the euro? Countries agree to join the euro as part of joining the EU, but not all have made the effort to meet the economic requirements. There is no time window to join. Denmark was granted an opt out, while Sweden rejected the euro in a 2003 referendum despite not having an opt out and has no target date to join. Other non-members are Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Romania. Officials in Poland, the biggest non-member, have shown little interest in joining despite acknowledging the obligation to join someday. The winner of Sunday's presidential election, Karol Nawrocki, campaigned on keeping the zloty currency. The country's economy has grown strongly without euro membership, doubling in size over the past two decades as its standard of living has almost caught up with Western Europe since emerging from communist rule in 1989.

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