International Coffee Day: The Journey of a Drink That Unites the World from Yemen to the End of the World
On October 1st of each year, the world celebrates “International Coffee Day”, an occasion that goes beyond just an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee, to become a global event that brings together different cultures and generations. This day enhances the status of coffee as an element that unites people, celebrates its social and economic impact, and honors its long journey from its obscure origins to becoming a global drink beloved by millions.
The Beginning of Coffee – Controversy over the Origin and a New Look
There is a great deal of controversy about the beginning of the appearance of the coffee tree, but what experts agree on is that this tree has lived with humans on Earth since ancient times, and it cannot be said that the oldest coffee tree was found in Ethiopia or Yemen. Its true beginnings date back to long ages before it was first discovered in Yemen, by the Yemeni Sufi and alchemist Jamal al-Din al-Shadhili. Coffee was not a human cultivation in its beginnings, but rather grew by nature and divine will, until Yemen came to be celebrated as the true birthplace of the coffee drink.
Yemen was not only home to the coffee tree, but it also embraced the oldest coffee trees in the world, which still produce beans of historical value thanks to the passage of time. This is due to the Yemeni port of Mocha, which played a fundamental role in exporting coffee to all parts of the world. Thanks to its high quality and unique flavors, Yemeni coffee has become a global demand, especially the “Mocha” variety that distinguishes it.
International Coffee Day – A tribute to the coffee industry and its farmers
International Coffee Day was officially established in 2015 by the International Coffee Organization (ICO) during Expo Milano. This event highlights the issues facing farmers, such as economic and environmental challenges, and calls for promoting fair trade practices to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their efforts.
Coffee is not only a drink that is enjoyable, but it is a source of livelihood for millions of people around the world, from farmers in the fields to baristas in coffee shops. This day reflects the recognition of the significant contributions these individuals make to making coffee an integral part of our daily lives.
Between heritage and modernity
In the UAE and the Gulf States, coffee is a symbol of hospitality and tradition. Arabic coffee is an integral part of daily life and social occasions, carefully prepared and seasoned with spices such as cardamom and saffron. However, in recent years, the UAE, especially Dubai, has become a hub for introducing modern coffee culture through workshops, tasting sessions and celebrations that link heritage with innovation.
In Saudi Arabia, coffee plays a pivotal role in national identity. It is an essential part of Saudi hospitality, and the Kingdom is working to promote coffee cultivation in areas such as Jazan, enhancing the status of Arabic coffee locally and internationally.
Yemen: The original home of coffee
Despite the debate over the origins of the coffee tree, Yemen remains the land where the world learned about coffee and exported it to the world. In the 17th century, the journey of exporting coffee began from the port of Mocha, becoming part of global culture. Yemeni coffee enjoys a global reputation for its unparalleled quality and flavours. Despite the economic and political challenges facing Yemen, coffee remains a symbol of authenticity and resilience.
Coffee around the world
International Coffee Day celebrations vary from country to country. In Brazil, local farmers are honored through festivals, while Europe organizes coffee tasting events and workshops on coffee preparation techniques. In the Netherlands, coffee lovers’ meetings are organized, while Indonesia and Vietnam support farmers by focusing on agricultural sustainability.
In the United States, International Coffee Day links the love of coffee with the call for fair trade practices. Coffee shops offer unique coffee tasting experiences with a focus on ethical production and sustainability.
Challenges and the future
While the world celebrates coffee, the industry faces major challenges such as climate change, which is expected to reduce the areas suitable for coffee cultivation by mid-century. This prompts the industry to develop new practices to maintain production while taking into account changing environmental conditions.
In addition to climate change, the coffee industry suffers from economic fluctuations that directly affect farmers’ income, especially in developing countries. International Coffee Day emphasizes the importance of promoting fair trade practices and supporting small farmers to preserve the coffee industry and ensure its sustainability.
Coffee is a symbol of unity
Today, the world celebrates coffee as a beverage that connects cultures and unites people. It is not just a drink, but a symbol of collaboration and innovation. On International Coffee Day, we remember everyone who helped bring this drink to our cups, from farmers to coffee shop workers, and work to support the sustainability of this ancient industry to ensure its continuity for generations to come.
