This Abu Dhabi classic car café is a petrolhead’s paradise
A Unique Oasis Where Vintage Automobiles Meet Artisan Coffee
This Abu Dhabi classic car café – Enthusiasts of automobiles, espresso, and pizza have discovered an extraordinary destination in Abu Dhabi where all three passions converge under one roof. This distinctive establishment functions simultaneously as a café and a vintage automobile exhibition space. DRVN Coffee has created a welcoming environment for automotive enthusiasts throughout the United Arab Emirates to enjoy their morning beverages while admiring some of the most exceptional vehicles ever manufactured.
The vision behind DRVN belongs to Rashed Al Fahim, who established the concept in 2019 with the intention of merging his three greatest loves into a single experience. The idea emerged from his desire to showcase portions of his father’s extensive classic car collection to the public. Currently, Al Fahim oversees a collection containing more than one hundred vehicles, though his journey to this position of independence was not without its challenges.
From Forbidden Touches to Full Autonomy
As a child, Al Fahim received strict instructions never to touch any of the vintage automobiles that comprised his father’s treasured collection. Rather than simply obeying, he chose action over words. He took his father’s 1964 Jaguar E-Type for an unscheduled drive, eventually bringing it to a local garage where the restoration process began. The iconic British sports car would spend seven years undergoing transformation before returning to its former glory.
Today, Al Fahim manages the entire collection without needing to hide his activities from his father. The relationship has evolved into what he describes as a playful dynamic. “Ever since, it’s been this cat and mouse game,” Al Fahim explained to CNN. “I try to touch one of his cars, change one of his cars. He yells at me but then ends up being proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
From Cockpit to Café
Before becoming a café entrepreneur, Al Fahim worked as a commercial pilot for Emirates Airlines. The business concept crystallized during a lengthy flight traveling from Dubai to Manila, where he documented his plans on paper. The timing proved serendipitous, as the inaugural DRVN location opened near Al Bateen Executive Airport, a fitting tribute to his aviation background.
Since that first opening, two additional locations have joined the family—one situated elsewhere in the city and another positioned near the Palm Jumeirah, the artificial island chain in Dubai. This expansion reflects the growing demand for the unique DRVN experience.
A Legacy of Automotive Excellence
Al Fahim’s connection to automobiles runs deep through multiple generations. His grandfather, Abdul Jalil Al Fahim, established an automobile repair business in 1958 that eventually grew into the ALFAHIM Group. This family enterprise now maintains interests across real estate, energy, and travel sectors. Mohammed Abdul Jalil Al Fahim currently leads the conglomerate and passed his enthusiasm for vintage vehicles to his son during childhood.
“We’d arrive at school and all the other kids are gathered around this classic car and parents are looking,” Al Fahim remembered. “I wanted to share that passion that so many other people share, but turn it into an experience that not only car lovers could enjoy, but (also) those who know nothing about cars. It’s just being surrounded by this automotive culture.”
The café hosts various events beyond casual visits, including car gatherings where locals showcase their vehicles, Formula One viewing sessions, and even Pilates classes. The establishment follows one fundamental rule: vehicles available for purchase in standard showrooms do not earn a place on display. This commitment to exclusivity has attracted remarkable automobiles.
Among the highlights is a race-prepared Mercedes-Benz 300 SL bearing Brad Pitt’s autograph, alongside a Mercedes 600 Pullman that transported Queen Elizabeth II during her 1979 visit to Abu Dhabi. The Dubai location, which opened in partnership with Porsche in 2022, once displayed nearly $400 million worth of Porsche history, including the brand’s inaugural model.
Looking ahead, Al Fahim envisions substantial growth beyond the Middle East. “Every car that’s built, it’s a form of art,” he reflected. “These engineering marvels are what built humankind, and it will continue to be like that.” With this philosophy guiding his vision, DRVN Coffee continues to expand its reach, bringing together automotive heritage and modern café culture for enthusiasts worldwide.