15 Feb 2025
This new trendy drink was probably meant for children — with its popping tapioca balls, sugary syrup, and a mix of flavours. However, something went wrong, and it quickly became a favourite among adults (especially those who need a big mood boost and a sugar rush throughout the day). Ladies and gentlemen, meet bubble tea! If you haven't tried it yet, I bet you will — and it might just become one of your weekly essentials. And if it is already your go-to drink, here are the top 5 places to try it in Dubai.
What is Bubble Tea?
For those who have never heard of it, bubble tea is basically a mix of tea, milk, and tapioca balls. However, to stand out, bubble tea brands experiment with different flavours — blending it with coffee, juice, and syrups to create unique and exciting tastes.
The funny thing? It is said that the first tapioca ball was added to tea by accident — a customer at a Taiwanese café supposedly mixed the tapioca from her dessert with a cold tea. Myth or not? I would like to believe it is true. Either way, a big thank you to the creators!
Photo: Christiann Koepke
Where to try Bubble Tea in Dubai:
Sharetea
Although it may not be the first-ever bubble tea brand, Sharetea was born in the birthplace of bubble tea, Taiwan, a little later after the original creation. Considered one of the most popular international bubble tea brands, Sharetea now has over 400 stores worldwide, so it has won the hearts of many countries, including the UAE.
Sharetea has small spots in the corners of Dubai Metro stations across the whole Dubai. The menu offers a variety of flavours, with the most popular being Mango Milk, Peach Kiwi (served with jelly), and Okinawa Milk Tea.
PIMS
Recently opened, PIMS has already become a favourite spot for many — not just because of their well-balanced bubble tea, but also because of the lovely atmosphere they create in teh cafes. The soft, fluffy sofas, pastel colours, and delicious desserts make it a welcoming place to relax. Two more great things: first, they have fantastic merch (I am in love with the cups and want them all!), and second, they are available in three locations: Dubai Mall, JBR, and Dubai Hills, plus they offer delivery via Talabat or Careem. My personal favourite is the new Jasmine Tapioca, made with jasmine, milk, honey, and… wait for it… PIMS cream!
Tania's Teahouse
This place is not just about bubble tea — they offer a range of drinks in all sorts of flavours, from regular matcha to pink milky cocktails and sparkling cherry mocktails. But the main attraction here is, of course, the lovely bubble tea.
Picture this: a pink, girlish atmosphere, charming tables, greenery all around, and then — bubble tea in any flavour: mango, lavender, or whatever you fancy. For me, it looks like the perfect spot for a girly Saturday morning meet-up!
Photos: @taniasteahouse
Boba House
My personal hidden boba gem, is located in the heart of Bay Square and offers the best bubble tea in terms of both quality and price. The menu is practically 10 pages long, filled with every possible flavour and variation — but the star of the show is the Cheesecake Boba. Another great thing? You can choose from four sugar levels — no sugar (still surprisingly good), 25% sugar, 50% sugar, or fully sweet.
The only catch? It is takeaway only, as there are only two chairs to sit (and they are really just for waiting). But that just makes it the perfect pick-me-up for your next stroll!
Booba
This place is perfect for the upcoming summer season. Why? Because they don't just offer tapioca pearls as an extra — they also add fresh fruit slices and marmalades for a refreshing twist. Their signature? Colourful drinks in even more vibrant packaging — an instant mood booster! And here is a little tip: If staff aska whether you would like extra boba in your tea, just say yes! You will not regret it.
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