Founded in the 1940s by Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the café initially bore the name Umm Shirbak Café. Over the years, it transformed into Mannoor Café, maintaining its profound heritage under the stewardship of Abdulla Mohammed Kandar Al Ahmed. A highlight of the café is its signature Mannoor tea, a harmonious mix of Sanjini and Slaimani teas, which has retained its original recipe since the café's inception. According to Abdulla, the owner, this drink stands as a 'lasting emblem of the café and its hallmark.'
Beyond its renowned tea, Mannoor Café holds a cherished position in the lives of Ras Al Khaimah residents. It is not merely a tea spot; it is a cherished communal gathering place. Long before contemporary entertainment and leisure venues emerged, the café was a focal point where locals convened to socialize and exchange stories. In its early years, it served as a pre-errand meeting spot for residents and played a pivotal role in cultivating national consciousness. With the introduction of the gramophone and later the radio, it became a forum for discussing significant national and regional matters, fostering a robust sense of community and unity.
Today, this communal spirit endures. Mannoor Café continues to attract visitors from local schools, the surrounding community, and international tourists, offering them insights into its rich history and enduring legacy. By doing so, the café bridges the past and present, providing all who visit with a deeper understanding and appreciation of its lasting heritage.
Mannoor Café has cultivated a devoted clientele over the years. Abdulla recounted touching anecdotes about customers' affection and gratitude for the café. 'Some patrons arrive directly from the airport, bypassing home,' he noted. 'They often have their luggage in tow. Others visit daily on their way home from work. We have numerous long-standing regulars.'
Looking to the future, the café is resolute in preserving its legacy. Abdulla expressed a profound dedication to serving the people of Ras Al Khaimah, stating, 'This landmark and national gathering place is a trust, and I pray to God that we can fulfill this duty as a testament of loyalty to this beloved country and its esteemed people.'
