FILLI LEGACY
UAE's favorite chai brand.
FiLLi has become a renowned brand for tea enthusiasts in the UAE and around the globe, with its intriguing inception story of transforming from a small local cafe to a thriving international chain. Founded by Rafih FiLLi in Dubai, FiLLi Cafe is a fast casual chain of cafés originating from the United Arab Emirates that has successfully expanded its presence to nine other countries, including the UK, USA, Oman, Qatar, Nepal, Mauritius, India and Pakistan. The brand is celebrated for its signature ‘Zafran Tea’—a unique saffron-infused chai blend. Alongside tea, FiLLi offers a diverse menu of snacks and beverages, such as iced chai, milkshakes, mocktails, bun kebabs, sandwiches, foodles, momos, and more, catering to Indian, Middle Eastern, and international tastes. Today, FiLLi is a sought-after name in the F&B industry, with a growing and loyal customer base that appreciates their offerings in the UAE and beyond.
Our successful journey
2024
Now in Pakistan, Lahore
FiLLi opened its first store in Lahore, Pakistan, on the 23rd Aug 2024.
2022
First outlet in USA & UK
FiLLi opened its first store in Houston, Texas, on the 14th of March, 2022.
2021
Best tea awards in UAE
FiLLi Tea was awarded 'Best Tea in UAE' twice in a row by Suno 1024 and LiveInd Dubai.
2018
We were recognized for our achievements through awards and recognitions.
Our case study has been published in Harvard Business School. Our founder, Mr. FiLLi, was a speaker at a TEDx event.
2016
Launched First franchise store in Qatar
The first franchise store was opened in Qatar and became a historical landmark for being the first franchise in the world.
2012
Kickoff Franchise Business Plan
Started expansion plan to become a global brand by signing an agreement with Francorp for MENA region
2010
Expanded to 5 more primary locations
Became a Well-Known Tea Place in Dubai
2007
Opened it's second branch
FiLLi Cafe opened its new branch in Al Mankhool which contributed in establishing popularity of the brand.
2004
From a name to a brand
When a young ‘ Rafih Filli ’ decided to take over his father’s cafeteria in Dubai’s Al Mamzar area, he made a small but significant change in the menu that was otherwise filled with banal products. He introduced a cup of milky tea dusted with saffron, largely aimed at sweetening the taste buds of its clientele and named it ‘Filli tea’, after his high school nickname. Little did he think that a cup of tea could lead to a flourishing chain of cafes across the Gulf with customers flocking to taste his concoction.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
ZAFRAN TEA
At FiLLi, we've spent more than two decades perfecting the art of creating tea blends. Our teas are crafted with care and attention to quality. One sip, and you'll taste the difference!
The Signature Zafran Tea was appreciated by people and thus began a new trend that is going global.
