The cafe is now open at Bassam Freiha Art Foundation.


There’s a new reason to explore the Saadiyat Cultural District, and it comes with a caffeine kick. Hidden inside the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation, Cafe des Artistes is the capital’s newest café concept, combining art, atmosphere, and all-day eats.

Now open, this stylish spot offers more than just your daily flat white. Backed by hospitality heavyweights Rikas Group, the team behind La Cantine du Faubourg, Chez Wam, Eugene Eugene, Lana Lusa and Miki Kakushi, Cafe des Artistes delivers a polished café experience that’s comforting without being predictable.

The interiors lean into natural textures and muted tones. Think warm woods, soft beige sofas, and greenery that softens the space. It’s bright, airy, and ideal for everything from solo mornings with a laptop to long, lazy lunches with friends. There’s also an outdoor terrace, perfect for cooler months or a quiet espresso break away from the city buzz.

On the menu, you can expect classic comfort food with a twist. The all-day menu spans everything from Salmon Eggs Benedict and Shakshuka to Burrata Salad, Thai Seabass, Roasted Chicken, and a fiery Spicy Tuna Sandwich. Pasta lovers can dig into a bold Arrabbiata, while dessert fans are well looked after with a rich Tiramisu and a Raspberry Tart. To drink, try a Spanish Latte or something more playful like a Lavender Matcha Latte.

The café also serves as an extension of its setting. The Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is a nonprofit institution dedicated to promoting cultural dialogue and celebrating creativity from across the region and beyond. Founded by Lebanese philanthropist Bassam Said Freiha, the space supports emerging and established artists.

Whether you’re fuelling up before an exhibition or just in search of a new coffee spot to unwind, Cafe des Artistes is the place to be. 

GO: Follow @cafedesartistesuae on Instagram for more information.