Where We Are Going Today: ‘Olala Roastery’ – coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia

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Unboxing Olala Roastery’s boxes — bold design, flavorful beans, and a whole vibe in every cup. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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Inside the boxes by Olala Roastery — creative packaging and curated blends for your daily caffeine ritual. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)
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Updated 29 April 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Olala Roastery’ – coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia

  • The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design

Olala Roastery is one of the most recognizable names among local coffee roasters in Saudi Arabia.

I tried two of their signature boxes: Nsahsah (Wake Me Up) and Mw Eadi (Not Your Usual), each with labeled blends and a colorful unboxing experience.

The Not Your Usual box featured two exceptional beans — vista and roza. Vista quickly became a favorite, thanks to its smooth body, light acidity, and a finish that felt both clean and vibrant. It was the kind of coffee that stood out from the first cup. I finished it so quickly — it was the best I have ever tried.

Roza, with its subtle fruity tones, offered a more delicate profile that worked beautifully for slower mornings.

The packaging is part of the Olala experience — lively illustrations, custom stickers and even branded takeaway cups. Every element reflects fun and youthful energy, making it perfect for gifting or for coffee lovers with an eye for design.

One drawback, however, was the inconsistency between the flavor notes written on some of the packaging and the actual taste of the coffee. The flavor profiles were not as clear or defined as described, which may leave some drinkers guessing — especially those who choose beans based on specific expectations.

Still, Olala Roastery delivers fresh, well-roasted coffee wrapped in a full sensory experience, making it a creative and proudly Saudi addition to the specialty coffee scene.

For more information, check @olala.roastery on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Circle 3 at Fenna Alawwal

Updated 03 December 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Circle 3 at Fenna Alawwal

RIYADH: Fenna Alawwal is located in Riyadh’s Al-Safarat neighbourhood, known as the Diplomatic Quarter, and serves as a cultural and creative hub that embraces a diverse community of thinkers and creators.

Connected to the center, Circle 3 by Acoustic is a restaurant and coffee shop that serves a variety of food options and beverages. I tried the lunch menu and coffee during my visit.

The center is spacious, and the interiors have a minimalist touch; the ambient music was soft and soothing. Overall, the vibes at Fenna Alawwal were very relaxing and pleasant. 

Connected to the center, Circle 3 by Acoustic, which is a restaurant and coffee shop that serves a variety of food options and beverages, where I tried the lunch menu and coffee. (AN photo by Haifa Alshammari)

For SR130 ($35), I ordered the eggplant fattah, the baked lasagna, and coffee after my meal. The cost was understandable, considering the restaurant’s location, and the food was good overall.

One of the services provided by the center was the “short stories” station for visitors interested in reading, along with a mini art gallery in the center’s outdoor area, and a library and bookshop. 

Fenna Alawwal is located in the Al Safarat neighbourhood, known as the diplomatic quarter. (AN photo by Haifa Alshammari)

Yet, I would have liked Wi-Fi, as the center is an excellent option for people looking for a private, quiet spot in Riyadh to enjoy a cup of coffee and work.

Fenna Alawwal also has its own parking lot, which is an advantage considering the low chances of finding an empty parking space near the center.