Library cafes in Dubai – read, eat and relax!

• Library Cafes in Dubai
• FAQs

Do you enjoy reading or discussing books and meeting like-minded people? Thankfully, the burgeoning scene of library cafes in Dubai has made it possible for bibliophiles to immerse themselves in the ‘reading’ universe. These unique cafes combine two of life’s most comforting things in one place: coffee and books!

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST LIBRARY CAFES IN DUBAI

SPILL THE BEAN

Free Wi-Fi, cosy interiors, floor to ceiling windows, comfortable seating, speciality coffee and books – Spill the Bean has all the elements needed in a quality cafe. This work-friendly cafe in Dubai is famous for its single-origin, supreme coffee blends. Located in The Sustainable City, it also offers some desserts that your taste buds will thank you for! Deemed a popular breakfast spot for families, this library coffee shop in Dubai provides an escape from the hustle and bustle — which makes it just perfect for readers.

Setting up a book exchange system within the cafe seemed natural for Spill the Bean, considering how popular it was becoming for its excellent food and coffee menu. Their library initiative attracted throngs of book lovers looking for a quiet place in Dubai to read. The added charm of enjoying a free cup of coffee every time you donate a book to the library cafe makes every visit worthwhile.

• Location: The Sustainable City, near Al Madina Al Mustadama Masjid
• Timings: 07:00 am to 08:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-242-8671

KUTTAB CAFE

Similar to other book cafes in Dubai, Kuttab Cafe is one of the best places to sit and work in Dubai. In fact, you can enjoy plenty of reading here as well. Kuttab Cafe is the brainchild of Kuttab Publishing – a local publishing company in Dubai. Their in-house library is nothing like those found in other library cafes in Dubai. Although the books offered are mainly in Arabic, they cover a variety of genres, with everything from light-hearted fiction to religious texts and philosophical debates.

This particular library cafe has a wide range of Arabic text for all ages; it’s well-suited for children and also people learning the language. There are a small collection of English books as well. Also of note are the high-back upholstered armchairs and uber-stylish living room interiors. The place hosts regular book launches and signings to promote local writers as well.

• Location: Uptown Mirdif, Near Evakana Restaurant – Mirdif
• Timings: 07:00 am to 12:00 am
• Contact: +971-4-288-5858

A4 SPACE

Talk about a contemporary space that offers the best of both worlds — healthy food including vegan options and a quiet place in Dubai to read and work. A4 Space is popular among young adults who appreciate the finer things in life. The cafe sports a modern design with thoughtfully created seating arrangements that range from eclectic floor cushions to rustic communal tables. So even if the tables and chairs are full, you can always find a comfy corner to curl up with a book.

The A4 Space library is located on the mezzanine floor, where the walls are lined with shelves full of books. Almost all of the books in this cafe have been donated. The place is popular and quickly fills up during peak hours. While other library cafes in Dubai may require you to make a reservation during rush hours, you can simply walk into A4 Space without needing one! During off-peak hours, it is one of the best co-working spaces in Dubai, thanks to its relaxed ambience. Additionally, it often hosts cultural events such as music nights to keep its regulars entertained.

• Location: Alserkal Avenue – Al Quoz
• Timings: : 09:00 am to 07:00 pm. The café is closed on Fridays
• Contact: +971-4-333-3464 | +971-50-556-9797

CIRCLE CAFE

With multiple branches across the city, Circle Cafe is one of the best library cafes in Dubai. Their Business Bay branch is probably the most popular Circle Cafe in Dubai. The area is mostly surrounded by luxury flats available for rent in Dubai, which puts the cafe in a prime position for the local populace.

This vibrant cafe was the brainchild of two Emirati women who wanted to promote a reading culture in Dubai. Today, it is a firm favourite with readers across the emirate. The cafe accepts book donations too, but beyond that, they love to welcome people who enjoy a nice read whilst tucking into tasty munch and soothing drinks. Other popular branches include Shorooq Mirdif, Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubai Healthcare City.

• Location: Building 7, Business Bay – Bay Square
• Timings: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-552-1403

FAQS

ARE THERE ARE ANY GOOD PLACES TO READ IN DUBAI?

There are plenty of amazing reading spots in Dubai. Aside from cafes, you can also head to any of the parks in Dubai for peaceful reading sessions.

DOES DUBAI HAVE A READING CULTURE?

Dubai has developed a strong reading culture which is certainly evident when you visit the public libraries in Dubai.

And with that, we wrap up our list of cafes with books in Dubai. Quiet, comfortable and serving great food, these library cafes in Dubai offer everything you need to read in peace. Even if you’re not a reader, these cafes provide relaxing environments in which to get some work done. Have we missed your favourite library cafe? Let us know in the comments section below.