Short answer: A Qatari majlis is built around Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates. Add a bowl of mixed dry fruits, a plate of honeycomb or a small bowl of honey, and finish with tea or karak. Keep the tray simple, fresh and generous – guests remember the welcome more than the number of dishes.
1. Arabic coffee and dates – the heart of the majlis
Gahwa is a light, golden coffee brewed with cardamom and often a few threads of saffron. It is poured into small cups (finjan), usually just a little at a time, and served with dates on the side. In many homes the host keeps refilling until the guest gently shakes the cup to say “enough”. For the saffron, soak a few threads in a little warm water before adding them to the dallah – see how to use saffron in Arabic coffee and karak.
2. Dates – plain and stuffed
Dates are the natural partner for gahwa. Soft, caramel-sweet Sukkari dates are a favourite in Qatar, while large Medjool dates feel more luxurious. For a modern touch, add a few chocolate-coated or stuffed dates to the tray. Not sure which to choose? Read Medjool vs Sukkari dates.
3. A bowl of dry fruits
A mixed bowl of nuts and dried fruit sits well next to coffee and is easy to prepare ahead. Popular choices:
- Almonds – long Mamra almonds are a classic for guests.
- Pistachios – green kernels add colour to the tray.
- Walnuts – rich in taste, and they pair nicely with honey.
- Pine nuts (chilgoza) – a winter favourite, served in the shell.
- Dried figs and apricots – a soft, sweet contrast to the crunchy nuts.
Browse the full range in our dry fruits collection.
4. Honey and honeycomb
A piece of Sidr honeycomb on a plate makes a striking centrepiece – guests can cut a small piece and eat it with bread or on its own. A small bowl of Sidr honey with warm bread, luqaimat or cheese is another easy idea. Put out small spoons and a few napkins so the tray stays neat.
5. Tea and karak to finish
After coffee, many hosts move on to red tea or karak. A spoon of honey in place of sugar is a nice touch for guests who like their tea lighter.
How much to prepare (rough guide)
| Item | 5 guests | 10 guests | 20 guests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dates | 250 g | 500 g | 1 kg |
| Mixed dry fruits | 250 g | 500 g | 1 kg |
| Honey or honeycomb | 1 small bowl | 1–2 bowls | 1 comb or 2–3 bowls |
| Arabic coffee | 1 dallah | 2 dallahs | 3–4 dallahs |
It is always better to have a little extra – a full tray is part of the welcome.
Presentation tips
- Keep it fresh. Store nuts in airtight jars and fill the bowls just before guests arrive – see how to store honey and saffron in Qatar's heat.
- Use small bowls. Several small bowls look fuller and are easier to refill than one big plate.
- Serve with the right hand. In Gulf tradition, coffee and dates are offered with the right hand, and the host usually starts with the most senior guest.
Honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months.
Everything for your majlis tray
Shop dry fruits → · Shop dates → · Shop honeycomb → · Cash on delivery · Delivery across Qatar · 7-day money-back · WhatsApp +974 7772 5027
Frequently asked questions
What is usually served with Arabic coffee in Qatar?
Dates are the classic partner. Many hosts also add dry fruits, sweets such as luqaimat, and sometimes honey or honeycomb.
How do I serve honeycomb to guests?
Place the comb on a flat plate at room temperature, cut small pieces with a knife and offer them with bread or on their own. Keep a small spoon and napkins nearby.
Can I prepare the majlis tray in advance?
Yes. Nuts and dried fruit can be portioned a day ahead in airtight containers. Put out the dates, honey and honeycomb shortly before guests arrive.
Safi Brothers Trading is a Qatar company (CR No. 203876) from a family that has been in the honey business since 1985. Our honey comes from Kashmir, Pakistan. Shop online or visit us at Ezdan Oasis, Al Wukair.
