Where We Are Going Today: Um Suliman Coffee

1 / 2
AN photo
2 / 2
Photo/Supplied
Short Url
Updated 08 March 2026
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: Um Suliman Coffee

  • Al-Subaei told Arab News how she still fills orders at home and her whole family chips in, including her husband and other daughter

Sometimes, you just want some good quality Saudi coffee while at home and when that craving hits, consider Um Suliman Coffee. 

Their powdered sachets will have you brewing authentic, aromatic Saudi coffee in seconds. Just boil hot water, stir and sip.

First impressions can make or break a coffee brand — especially in an industry so saturated — but this one comes in cute packaging that is convenient. Best of all, it delivers in flavor.

When I came across the eye-catching Um Suliman box while in Dhahran recently, I was intrigued. Was this a real person or just marketing?

I called the number on the back only to receive a response from the real Um Suliman herself. She is not only real, but she is mellow and vibrant: much like the Saudi coffee she prepares.

Founded by Mirfat Ali Al-Subaei, also known as Um Suliman, her love for Saudi coffee began early in her life. She then started experimenting, adding her own signature sprinkling to the mix about 17 years ago, and then launched her home-based business about seven years ago.

She was always praised for her “good coffee” by friends and decided to delve into it, becoming a reluctant entrepreneur. But she is letting it percolate.

It has evolved into a true family business. Her daughter, a graphic designer, is responsible for the fun and playful artwork that is deeply rooted in Saudi culture but with a modern twist. 

Al-Subaei told Arab News how she still fills orders at home and her whole family chips in, including her husband and other daughter. 

Based in the Eastern Province, the brand often participates at events locally and in Riyadh.

Her Saudi coffee can be purchased via her website or on WhatsApp. They ship to anywhere in the Kingdom and are expanding beyond to neighboring Gulf countries.

A package of 12 goes for SR100 ($27) with many cute accessories and stickers.

For more details, check their Instagram @umsuliman_coffe.

 


Where We Are Going Today: Ziba Restaurant in Riyadh

Photo/Supplied
Updated 10 March 2026
Follow

Where We Are Going Today: Ziba Restaurant in Riyadh

  • A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to expand, and one of the newest additions bringing a touch of Persian sophistication to the capital is Ziba.

With roots in Alkhobar, the restaurant has built a reputation for blending traditional flavors with an elegant dining experience.

When I arrived, the first thing that stood out was the atmosphere. The interior felt thoughtfully curated, with Persian-inspired design elements that create a warm yet refined setting.

Rich carpets, subtle lighting and artistic details add the impression of stepping into a space that celebrates centuries of craftsmanship from the region rather than conforming to modern trends.

The menu features a variety of grilled meats, rice dishes and classic appetizers that highlight the depth of the culinary tradition.

I began with the mezze platter, which offered a colorful introduction to the meal.

One standout was kashk-o-bademjan, a creamy eggplant dish topped with herbs that delivered rich, comforting flavors. It was the kind of starter that invites you to slow down and enjoy each bite.

The main course, however, is where Ziba truly shines. The joojeh kebab — marinated chicken grilled to perfection — arrived tender and lightly charred, paired with fragrant saffron rice.

The rice was fluffy and aromatic, while the chicken carried just enough seasoning to enhance its natural taste.

Another highlight was the mixed grill platter, which allows diners to sample different kebabs in one sitting. Each cut of meat had its own texture and flavor profile, making the dish both generous and satisfying.

Prices are relatively reasonable considering the restaurant’s upscale atmosphere.

A meal for one person can range roughly between SR100 ($27) and SR150 depending on the dishes ordered. While this places the restaurant in the mid-range category for Riyadh dining, ordering several dishes to share can quickly raise the overall bill.

Service throughout the evening was welcoming and attentive. The restaurant was quite busy, which meant the wait for the main course was slightly longer than expected.

To end the meal, I ordered Persian tea, which arrived steaming and fragrant — a simple but perfect conclusion.

Riyadh has no shortage of restaurants, but Ziba manages to stand out by staying true to its roots.

Find more details on @ziba.saudi.