Cold Brew Coffee in Saudi Arabia: The Best Makers and How to Use Them
Why Cold Brew Is Perfect for Saudi Arabia
With temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C, Saudi Arabia is arguably the ideal country to embrace cold brew coffee. Unlike iced coffee — which is simply hot coffee poured over ice — cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12–24 hours, producing a smooth, low-acid concentrate with a naturally sweet flavour. No heat, no bitterness, just pure, refreshing coffee.
How Cold Brew Differs From Regular Iced Coffee
The science is simple but impactful. Heat extracts compounds quickly but also pulls out acidic and bitter elements. Cold water extraction is slow, yielding a coffee that is up to 67% less acidic than hot-brewed coffee. For those with sensitive stomachs — or who simply want a smoother cup in the scorching Saudi heat — cold brew is a revelation.
Types of Cold Brew Makers
1. Immersion Cold Brew Jars
The simplest method: coarse-ground coffee steeps in cold water in a sealed jar or pitcher for 12–24 hours, then gets filtered through a fine mesh or paper. Brands like OXO and Hario make excellent, affordable immersion brewers widely available in Saudi Arabia.
2. Drip Cold Brew Towers
These striking glass towers drip cold water through coffee grounds very slowly over several hours. They produce a lighter-bodied, more nuanced brew and make a dramatic statement in any kitchen. Popular in specialty coffee shops in Riyadh and Jeddah, and increasingly available for home use.
3. Mason Jar Method
No special equipment needed — just a large mason jar, coffee, cold water, and a coffee filter. This DIY approach is the most budget-friendly option and produces results just as good as expensive equipment when done correctly.
Best Cold Brew Ratios and Recipes
For a concentrate (to dilute with water or milk): use a 1:4 ratio — 1 part coffee to 4 parts water. For a ready-to-drink brew: use 1:8. Always use coarse-ground coffee to avoid over-extraction and a bitter result. Steep in the refrigerator for 12–18 hours for the best flavour.
Where to Buy Cold Brew Equipment in Saudi Arabia
Cold brew equipment is now widely available across Saudi Arabia. Check specialty coffee shops like % Arabica and Noir Coffee for branded equipment, or browse eXtra, Amazon.sa, and Noon for a wider range. Prices for quality immersion brewers start from around SAR 80, while drip towers range from SAR 300 to SAR 800 or more.
Tips for the Perfect Cold Brew
- Always use freshly ground, coarse coffee — pre-ground is too fine and makes a muddy, over-extracted brew.
- Use filtered water for the cleanest flavour.
- Steep in the fridge, not at room temperature, for food safety and better taste.
- Cold brew concentrate keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Cold brew is one of the fastest-growing coffee trends in Saudi Arabia, and for good reason. It’s delicious, forgiving to make, and perfectly suited to the climate. Once you try a glass of smooth, ice-cold homemade cold brew, the local café will have some serious competition.
