The Middle East, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, has seen a significant rise in coffee culture and café businesses over the past decade.
This growth has created a steady demand for skilled baristas and café workers, making the region an attractive destination for job seekers, especially from the Philippines and other countries with a strong hospitality workforce tradition.
Filipino baristas and café staff are highly sought after for their hospitality skills, adaptability, and English proficiency, making them prominent in the region’s café and restaurant scene.
Between 2014 and 2016 alone, over 2,200 new coffee shop licenses were issued in the region, and the trend continues upward. Specialty coffee shops are particularly popular in cities like Dubai, Riyadh, Jeddah, and Doha, where consumers are increasingly knowledgeable about coffee origins, brewing methods, and quality.
Key GCC countries employing Filipino baristas and café workers
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Dubai and Abu Dhabi are major hubs for specialty coffee and international café chains.
- There are hundreds of job openings for baristas, café assistants, and supervisors, with many employers actively seeking Filipino workers for their skills and professionalism.
- The UAE’s diverse population and tourism industry ensure a steady demand for English-speaking café staff.
Saudi Arabia
- The Kingdom is experiencing a coffee shop boom, with both international and local brands expanding rapidly in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other major cities.
- Filipino baristas are valued for their experience and adaptability, often working in both chain and specialty cafés.
- Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms have made it easier for hospitality businesses to hire foreign workers, further increasing opportunities.
Qatar
- Doha’s café scene is growing, with a mix of high-end and casual coffee shops.
- Filipino baristas and café workers are in high demand, with recruitment agencies and employers in Qatar actively hiring from the Philippines.
- The upcoming international events and a focus on tourism continue to drive job creation in the sector.
Bahrain
- The café and restaurant industry is vibrant, with many job postings specifically seeking Filipino baristas and wait staff.
- Employers offer competitive salaries, benefits such as accommodation and transportation, and a multicultural work environment.
Kuwait and Oman
- Both countries have seen a steady rise in café openings and are home to international and regional coffee brands.
- Filipino workers are recruited for various roles, including barista, café manager, and kitchen staff.
Typical roles, responsibilities, and skills
Baristas and café workers in the Middle East are expected to:
- Prepare and serve a range of hot and cold beverages, including espresso-based drinks, teas, and specialty items.
- Operate coffee machines and brewing equipment with precision.
- Provide excellent customer service, take orders efficiently, and maintain a welcoming atmosphere.
- Keep workstations clean, organized, and stocked.
- Handle cash and card transactions accurately.
- Adhere to health, safety, and hygiene standards.
- Upsell products and contribute to a positive team culture.
Employers value candidates with:
- Previous experience in cafés or restaurants (usually 1-3 years).
- Good English communication skills.
- A professional, friendly demeanor.
- The ability to work in fast-paced, multicultural environments.
Career progression and salaries
Entry-level baristas can advance to senior barista, supervisor, or café manager roles with experience and additional training.
Some employers, especially in high-end or specialty coffee shops, offer opportunities for further learning, including coffee certifications and management training.
Salaries vary by country, employer, and experience:
- In Bahrain, barista salaries typically range from BD 220 to 250 (around USD 580-660) per month, with benefits such as accommodation and transportation often included.
- In the UAE and Qatar, salaries can range from AED 2,000 to 3,500 (USD 540-950) per month for baristas, with higher pay for supervisors or managers.
- Saudi Arabia and Kuwait offer similar ranges, with additional incentives depending on the employer and location.
Challenges and realities
While the café industry in the Middle East offers many opportunities, there are challenges to consider:
- Work can be fast-paced and physically demanding, especially during peak hours.
- Shifts may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Some employers may require additional certifications or training, especially for specialty coffee shops.
- Living and working in a new country involves cultural adaptation and compliance with local labor laws.
Why Filipino workers are in demand
Filipino baristas and café workers are highly regarded in the Middle East for several reasons:
- Strong hospitality and customer service orientation.
- Good command of English, which is essential in multicultural environments.
- Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills.
- Positive reputation from previous and current Filipino workers in the region, leading employers to specifically request Filipino applicants.
Tips for aspiring baristas and café workers
- Gain experience in reputable cafés or restaurants in the Philippines or abroad before applying.
- Obtain relevant certifications in coffee preparation and food safety if possible.
- Prepare a professional CV and be ready for interviews that may include practical skill tests.
- Work with licensed recruitment agencies and verify job offers to avoid illegal recruitment.
- Be open to continuous learning and professional development, as the specialty coffee industry values ongoing training.
Conclusion
The Middle East remains a promising destination for Filipino and other migrant baristas and café workers, with robust demand across the GCC.
With the right skills, experience, and attitude, job seekers can build rewarding careers and progress to higher roles in the region’s dynamic café industry.