This Abu Dhabi classic car café is a petrolhead’s paradise
This Abu Dhabi classic car café – Abu Dhabi, a city synonymous with luxury and innovation, has found a unique intersection of passion and practicality with the emergence of DRVN Coffee. This hybrid café and automotive museum has become a must-visit for car enthusiasts, offering a curated experience that combines the thrill of classic automobiles with the comfort of gourmet coffee and artisanal pizza. The establishment, founded by Rashed Al Fahim, seamlessly integrates his love for vintage cars with his commitment to creating a community hub. Since its opening in 2019, DRVN has attracted attention not only for its rare car collection but also for its ability to transform automotive culture into a welcoming, everyday environment. With its vibrant atmosphere and exclusive exhibits, this Abu Dhabi classic car café stands as a testament to the power of blending tradition with modernity.
A legacy of automotive love
Al Fahim’s connection to classic cars began in childhood, shaped by his grandfather Abdul Jalil Al Fahim, who established an auto-repair shop in 1958. Growing up, he was immersed in the world of mechanics and vintage vehicles, fostering a deep appreciation for automotive history. However, his passion for cars was further ignited by a personal challenge: as a teenager, he secretly restored his father’s cherished 1964 Jaguar E-Type, a seven-year project that became a symbol of his determination. The story of this car, which he once drove without permission, is a recurring theme in his narrative. “It’s been this cat and mouse game,” he told CNN, “where I try to touch one of his cars, change one of his cars. He yells at me but ends up being proud of what we’ve accomplished.” This dynamic has carried over into DRVN, where the family’s automotive heritage is celebrated in every corner of the café.
Culture meets commerce
DRVN Coffee’s design philosophy reflects its dual purpose: a place to enjoy coffee and a gallery for automotive art. The café’s layout features cars from different eras, each displayed with meticulous care to highlight their historical and aesthetic value. Among the highlights are a race-modified Mercedes-Benz 300 SL adorned with Brad Pitt’s signature and a 600 Pullman model, once used to transport Queen Elizabeth II during her 1979 state visit to Abu Dhabi. These vehicles are not just static displays; they are part of a larger narrative that ties the café to the cultural fabric of the UAE. The Dubai branch, launched in 2022 in collaboration with Porsche, expanded this vision by showcasing over $400 million worth of the brand’s historical models, including its first ever design. This Abu Dhabi classic car café has become a bridge between heritage and contemporary lifestyle, appealing to both connoisseurs and casual visitors alike.
A community-driven concept
What sets DRVN apart is its commitment to making classic car culture accessible beyond the realm of collectors. Al Fahim’s goal was never just to showcase vehicles but to create a space where automotive enthusiasts and everyday patrons could connect. The café hosts events such as car meets, Formula One screenings, and Pilates classes, ensuring that its appeal spans multiple interests. This approach has fostered a loyal community, where people gather not only to admire the cars but also to share stories and experiences. The idea of exclusivity is central to DRVN’s identity, as its car collection includes models that are rarely seen in public showrooms. From its first location near Al Bateen Executive Airport to its expansion across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the café has consistently emphasized the importance of rarity and authenticity in its offerings.
Design and ambiance
Walking into DRVN Coffee is like stepping into a time capsule of automotive history. The interior design blends retro aesthetics with modern comfort, creating a setting where classic cars are not just displayed but integrated into the experience. Vintage dashboard panels, handcrafted leather seats, and period-appropriate lighting evoke the era of the vehicles, while the café’s menu offers a complementary taste of innovation. Customers can enjoy a Margherita pizza or a carefully brewed cup of coffee while surrounded by the scent of old-timers and the hum of engines. This unique ambiance has become a defining feature of the Abu Dhabi classic car café, making it a destination that transcends mere leisure. Al Fahim’s background as a former Emirates airline pilot also influenced the café’s layout, with a focus on functionality and fluidity, much like the experience of flying.
Future aspirations
As DRVN Coffee continues to grow, Al Fahim envisions expanding its reach beyond the Middle East. “Every car that’s built is a form of art,” he remarked, emphasizing the cultural significance of classic automobiles. His long-term plan includes establishing new locations in global cities, ensuring that the Abu Dhabi classic car café’s legacy is shared with a wider audience. The café’s success has already demonstrated that automotive passion can thrive in a social setting, blending nostalgia with contemporary experiences. From its humble beginnings as a personal project to its current status as a regional icon, DRVN has proven that classic cars can be more than just machines—they can be the heart of a community. As the business evolves, it remains rooted in the same principles: quality, exclusivity, and the celebration of automotive heritage.
