As October 1 approaches, marking International Coffee Day, Emirates Airlines is shining a spotlight on its beloved partnership with Coffee Planet. For eight years, Coffee Planet has been the exclusive supplier of specialty coffee to Emirates, ensuring travelers relish premium brews in every Emirates lounge at Dubai International Airport (DXB). This year is particularly special as Emirates celebrates 40 years and Coffee Planet marks 20 years, both emerging as globally celebrated UAE-based brands.
From a Single Machine to a Global Icon
Coffee Planet’s beginnings are a testament to UAE entrepreneurship. Founded in 2005 by Allan Jones and Matthew Yorke Smith, it started with just one coffee machine at a gas station, serving 30 cups daily. “Our journey has been remarkable,” says Allan Jones, Chairman of Coffee Planet. “From those modest beginnings to becoming a global name in specialty coffee, our evolution is something we take immense pride in, especially as a UAE-born business with worldwide aspirations.”
In the last two decades, Coffee Planet has become a respected specialty roaster sourcing beans from over 23 countries. Its cutting-edge facility in Dubai ensures beans are roasted locally, delivering unrivaled freshness, a quality that Emirates highly values for its premium clientele.
“It’s a great pride that Coffee Planet, like Emirates, originated here in the UAE. Being a local roaster, we offer freshly roasted coffee daily to our partners, ensuring the highest quality for Emirates passengers globally,” adds Jones.
Enhancing the Lounge Experience
Coffee Planet’s presence in all Emirates lounges at DXB is crucial to their partnership. Travelers enjoy artisan blends and specialty mixes crafted for every preference, from rich espressos to smooth cappuccinos and seasonal innovations.
In the Concourse B First Class Lounge, a dedicated coffee counter serves rotating single-origin coffees, updated bi-monthly. Baristas, trained by Coffee Planet, craft specialty brews from Colombia, Burundi, Brazil, and more. Each cup offers passengers a unique taste journey, from fruity brightness to velvety chocolate undertones and nutty citrus balances.
Coffee for Every Occasion
Beyond daily offerings, Coffee Planet collaborates with Emirates to create exclusive seasonal drinks for special occasions. Travelers can enjoy unique creations like rose-infused mocha for Valentine’s Day or spiced orange latte for the holidays, showcasing the brand’s innovative specialty coffee approach.
Training for Excellence
Every perfect cup is backed by a team of well-trained staff. Coffee Planet ensures Emirates lounge baristas and servers receive thorough training on coffee origins, brewing methods, and service etiquette. This dedication guarantees each cup reflects not only technical expertise but also the exceptional hospitality both brands are renowned for.
Marking Milestones: Coffee Planet and Emirates
This milestone year celebrates two inspiring journeys: Coffee Planet’s rise from a single machine to an internationally acclaimed roaster, and Emirates’ 40 years of global aviation excellence.
“Every palate deserves exceptional coffee, once a luxury for a few,” says Jones. “This belief drives our innovation and strengthens our partnerships. Working with Emirates for eight years has enabled us to showcase the best of specialty coffee to millions annually.”
A Partnership Founded on Shared Values
At the core of the Emirates-Coffee Planet partnership is a mutual commitment to quality, innovation, and UAE pride. Emirates sets new aviation standards globally, while Coffee Planet has revolutionized coffee culture regionally and beyond. Together, they embody the UAE’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to world-class service.
As Emirates expands its global network and enhances its premium lounge offerings, Coffee Planet remains a trusted partner in delivering consistent, fresh, and innovative coffee experiences. From Dubai to worldwide destinations, passengers can expect a coffee journey reflecting the passion and excellence of two UAE success stories.
This International Coffee Day, as coffee enthusiasts worldwide raise their cups, Emirates and Coffee Planet celebrate more than anniversaries. They celebrate a shared vision, bringing the UAE’s passion for hospitality and specialty coffee to millions of travelers globally.
