Quick answer: A finyal (also written fenyal or finjan) is a small, handle-less cup used to serve Arabic coffee, known in the UAE as gahwa. A finyal usually holds around 60 ml, because gahwa is served in small amounts and refilled often. When choosing finyal, look at the material (handmade clay or ceramic), the size, how many are in the set (six is common for hosting) and whether it comes gift-boxed. Tashkeel offers handmade Finyal Cups made from Dubai clay, the gold and black Gerbou Finyal sets and the complete Ghaf Tea Set Box.
What is gahwa?
Gahwa is Arabic coffee as it is prepared in the UAE and the wider Gulf: lightly roasted coffee beans brewed with cardamom, and often saffron or rosewater, served in a dallah (coffee pot). Arabic coffee was inscribed by UNESCO in 2015 on its list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, nominated jointly by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar. Serving gahwa is one of the most important gestures of welcome in Emirati culture, whether in a majlis, at a family gathering or in a business meeting.
How is Arabic coffee served?
- The host or server holds the dallah in the left hand and offers the finyal with the right.
- The cup is only partly filled, so the coffee stays warm and can be refilled.
- Guests are traditionally served in order, often starting with the eldest or most honoured guest.
- When a guest has had enough, they gently shake the cup from side to side before handing it back.
- Gahwa is commonly served with dates, which balance its bitterness.
What should I look for in finyal cups?
Material
Handmade clay finyal feel earthy and unique, with small variations between cups. Glazed ceramic finyal are smooth, durable and easy to clean. Many people like a combination: an unglazed exterior that feels good in the hand and a glazed interior for practicality.
Size
Around 60 ml is a traditional size for gahwa. Anything much larger starts to feel like a tea cup.
Set size
Sets of six are practical for hosting and for gifting.
Presentation
If you are giving finyal as a gift, a presentation box makes a real difference, especially for Ramadan, Eid, weddings and corporate gifting.
Which Tashkeel finyal should I choose?
Finyal Cups β Set of 6 (Tasmeem Tashkeel)
The Tasmeem Tashkeel Finyal Cups are shaped by hand at Tashkeel from natural clay extracted from the Dubai landscape. The exterior is left raw and unglazed in its natural earth tone, while the interior is glazed for daily use. Each cup holds about 60 ml and no two are exactly alike. Choose these if you want a piece that is literally made from the UAE.
Gold Finyal and Black Finyal β Sets of 6 (Gerbou)
The Gold Finyal set features gold detailing inspired by local heritage, while the Black Finyal set has a smooth, refined finish. Both are handcrafted from high-grade ceramic and gift-boxed. Choose these for formal hosting or a polished gift.
Ghaf Tea Set Box (Gerbou)
The Ghaf Tea Set Box is a complete hosting kit: six finyal for coffee, six istikana tea glasses with saucers, six spoons and a lidded sugar bowl, packed in a presentation box. It is the most complete set in this guide, suited to weddings and housewarmings.
Cortado Cups and Cups & Saucers
For guests who prefer espresso-style coffee, the handmade Cortado Cups and the Gold Gerbou Cup & Saucer sit well alongside a finyal set.
Setting a coffee tray
Place the dallah at the centre of a tray, with the finyal stacked or lined up beside it and a small bowl of dates. The Wooden Tray, laser-engraved with a heritage pattern, works well for this.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a finyal and a finjan?
They are regional names for the same small, handle-less Arabic coffee cup. In the UAE, finyal is the common pronunciation.
How many finyal are in a set?
Six is the most common number for hosting, and all of Tashkeel's finyal sets contain six cups.
Are handmade clay finyal safe for daily use?
Tashkeel's handmade Finyal Cups have a glazed interior designed for daily use and longevity.
Are finyal a good gift?
Yes. Finyal are among the most meaningful gifts in Emirati culture, especially for Ramadan, Eid, weddings and new homes.
Prices and availability change, so check the product page for the latest.
