At Coffeedesk.ae, we’re passionate about helping you brew the perfect cup. Whether you're wondering which grinder suits pour-over or espresso, how to descale your coffee machine in the UAE’s hard water, or which moka pot works on induction cooktops, we’ve got you covered. From choosing between burr and blade grinders to understanding how long a French press or Moccamaster keeps coffee warm, our expert guides and product recommendations are tailored to coffee lovers in the UAE. We also offer a wide range of authentic coffee beans, brewing gear, and eco-friendly accessories like KeepCup to make your coffee experience both delicious and sustainable.
Yes, Nespresso machines sold in the UAE are designed to work with the local voltage of 220-240V. Always check the product specifications before purchase.
For Arabic coffee, a fine burr grinder is recommended to achieve the right texture. Manual grinders like the Comandante or electric grinders with adjustable settings work well.
Using a descaling solution like Urnex Dezcal is highly recommended. Regular descaling every 1-3 months helps maintain performance in areas with hard water.
Moccamaster models with a glass carafe feature a hot plate with two settings: one maintains the temperature around 80–85°C (indicated by a semicircle), and the other activates the full hot plate (full circle). The heat is typically kept for approximately 40 minutes.
KeepCups are eco-friendly, reusable cups designed as a sustainable alternative to disposable takeaway cups. They are not fully sealed thermal mugs, so they aren’t leak-proof enough to be tossed into a bag without spilling. The brand focuses on creating a lightweight, stylish, and environmentally conscious option that helps you stand out.
Recently, KeepCup introduced a new line called KeepCup Thermal. These cups feature double-walled stainless steel construction, allowing your drinks to stay warm for longer periods.
Coffee pots suitable for induction cooktops typically start at a size of 3 cups (3tz) or larger, as they must be made of steel—since induction cookers cannot detect aluminum cookware.
Examples of induction-compatible models include the Bialetti Venus 6tz, Bialetti Kitty 6tz, and Bialetti Moka Induction.
The best approach is to prevent limescale buildup by using water filters or a filter jug, as filtered water helps protect your equipment. However, if descaling becomes necessary, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific machine. It’s safest to use a dedicated descaling solution, such as Urnex Cafiza or Urnex Dezcal.
Semi-automatic and some automatic espresso machines feature a steam nozzle for frothing milk. After each use, wipe the nozzle with a damp cloth and purge it with steam to keep it clean.
Most automatic espresso machines have built-in milk frothing systems that prompt you to rinse them usually by connecting the hose end to the drip tray and pressing the designated button. With frequent use, or when the machine notifies you, it’s a good idea to run a specialized milk system cleaner through the machine by adding the cleaning solution to the container attached to the hose.
Most automatic coffee machines will notify you when they need maintenance. The display alerts you when it’s time for cleaning, descaling, milk system cleaning, or rinsing.
All you need is a small amount of a cleaning product, such as Urnex, and a blind filter that blocks water from passing through the portafilter, allowing the cleaning solution to stay inside. Pour the cleaning powder into the blind filter, attach the portafilter to the group head, and start the espresso machine. This creates a cleaning solution in the filter that cleans the shower screen and circulates through the system. A group head cleaning brush is also useful for scrubbing away coffee residues from every corner and crevice.
A key factor in maintaining your coffee grinder is the type of coffee you use. Dark roast beans contain more oils that can build up on the burrs, and flavored coffees can cause similar issues.
It’s helpful to perform a mechanical cleaning—such as using a vacuum cleaner—once a week, though this won’t remove all residue. For a deeper clean, aim to thoroughly clean your grinder once a month or after finishing an entire bag of coffee. One effective method is using Urnex Grindz Grinder Cleaning Tablets, which are specially formulated to lift away most residues and oils. Instructions can be found on the packaging or in guides like "How to Clean Coffee Grinders."
Even with regular care, it’s important to inspect and clean the burrs periodically. Usually, you should set your grinder to the coarsest setting or beyond, then remove the bean container to access the burrs. Clean them carefully using a toothpick and a soft brush. If the burrs feel greasy, a small amount of Urnex Cafiza Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder mixed with hot water can be used to scrub them thoroughly. Be sure to rinse the burrs well and dry them completely with a paper towel.
After reassembling the grinder, grind one dose of coffee to flush out any remaining cleaning agents, preventing them from affecting the flavor of your next brew.
Burr grinders work by crushing coffee beans between two burrs, with one burr rotating to push the ground particles out of the grinding chamber. This design produces a more consistent grind and allows for precise control over grind size.
On the other hand, blade (or propeller) grinders chop the beans at high speed using spinning blades. They don’t offer any control over grind size, resulting in uneven particles that can cause poor extraction, leading to acidity and bitterness in the coffee. The high-speed blades also generate more heat due to friction, which negatively impacts the coffee’s flavor. Additionally, blade grinders tend to be louder than burr grinders.
If you’re looking to invest in reliable equipment that works well for both pour-over and espresso, the options among manual grinders are limited—the Comandante is the standout choice.
For automatic grinders, the Baratza Sette models are excellent. They feature steel conical burrs, are easy to clean, and some versions come with a built-in scale for precise coffee dosing directly into the espresso portafilter.
Several factors contribute to the high cost of espresso grinders, including their construction and the materials used. Because espresso is a demanding brewing method that leaves little room for compromise, grinders designed for it are crafted with exceptional precision and attention to detail. The burrs are made from stainless steel, which offers excellent mechanical strength and is flavor-neutral—both essential for high-quality grinding.
Additionally, espresso grinders feature specially designed burr geometry to prevent clogging during grinding, which can cause friction and produce excess coffee dust. This dust can lead to bitterness and spoil the coffee’s clean taste. The burrs are carefully engineered and securely fitted to ensure consistent, even grinding.
Espresso preparation is demanding, so the grinder needs to be well-designed. Automatic grinders with large, flat steel burrs are ideal because bigger burrs reduce the time coffee beans spend in contact with the grinder, resulting in faster grinding and less friction and heat buildup.
For home baristas, the Eureka Mignon is a solid choice. It features large steel burrs for quick, consistent grinding and a sturdy steel build.
If you’re looking for a grinder in a reasonable price range with advanced features, the Eureka Atom is an excellent option. With even larger 65 mm burrs, it delivers faster and more precise grinding. It also offers dose programming, a built-in cooling system, and operates quietly.
The top—and practically the only—manual grinder capable of producing a true espresso grind is the Comandante.
Espresso is a highly demanding brewing method, so it’s wiser to invest more in a quality grinder than in the coffee machine itself. The grinder plays the biggest role in determining the flavor of your coffee. When coffee is ground finely and consistently without excess dust, even the most affordable espresso machine can deliver a surprisingly great cup.
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