The 'Dubai Coffee Auction,' organized by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) as part of the 'World of Coffee 2025 Dubai' exhibition, concluded recently with record-breaking prices for rare and luxurious coffee beans.

The auction showcased 16 lots from 11 producers across nine countries, featuring 11 unique varieties of 'Gesha' coffee, highlighting the event's status as a global platform for premier coffee producers.

The highest-priced coffee at the auction was the natural Gesha from 'Finca Sofia' in Panama, selling for 10,020 USD (approximately 36,798 AED) per kilogram.

Another variety from the same farm was sold for 8,614 USD per kilogram, while coffee from 'Finca La Mula' reached 2,620 USD per kilogram.

Additionally, a type of 'Oma Natural' coffee from Ethiopia fetched 1,100 USD per kilogram, marking a new record for Ethiopian coffee.

Moreover, the 'Kona SL 34' coffee from Hawaii achieved a record price of 950 USD per kilogram, an increase of eight times from the previous highest price for Kona coffee.

Ahmad bin Sulayem, CEO of the DMCC, stated that the inaugural coffee auction provided a unique opportunity to showcase some of the rarest and highest quality coffee, achieving new record prices for specialized varieties and solidifying Dubai's position as a global coffee trading hub.

He emphasized the auction's role in creating a transparent and competitive platform for price discovery in the specialty coffee market and bringing together producers, traders, and coffee enthusiasts from around the world, reinforcing the DMCC's pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the most traded commodities globally.

Khaled Al Hamadi, Senior Vice President of 'DXB Live', the integrated event management services arm of the Dubai World Trade Centre, noted that the auction highlighted Dubai's stature as a global coffee trading hub.

He pointed out that the auction not only demonstrated the growing demand for rare and luxurious coffee beans but also emphasized their commitment to fostering growth and excellence within the industry through such events.

David Paparelli, Auction Director and CEO and Co-founder of 'M-Cultivo,' remarked on the distinct pricing of specialty coffee at auctions compared to mainstream market prices.

He stated that buyers view these coffees as luxury items rather than comparing them with commercial coffee, likening the distinction to comparing a Patek Philippe watch with a Timex, highlighting the significant difference in their respective categories.

Specialty coffee is characterized by receiving a score of 80 points or higher on a 100-point scale used by the Specialty Coffee Association.

All lots featured in the auction scored 92 points or more.

Three primary factors determine the high prices: first, the coffee must be among the best in the world, usually scoring above 90 points in tasting tests; second, its rarity is enhanced by limited quantities; and third, the producer's reputation and story significantly contribute to its value, as buyers seek quality consistency and a distinguished background.

Gesha coffee is recognized as one of the rarest and most expensive types globally, known for its unique flavor profile and high quality, characterized by floral notes and citrus acidity, with origins tracing back to Ethiopia's Gesha village.

It was transferred to Panama in the 1960s, contributing to its premium status.

Additionally, 'La Llama' beans from producer 'Los Rodriguez' have become the most expensive Bolivian coffee ever sold, reaching 350 USD per kilogram.