Dubai Chocolate Trend Arrives in Quad Cities, Made by Refugee Artisans

Handcrafted chocolate with Middle Eastern flavors now available in Iowa

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A unique chocolate trend that originated in Dubai has made its way to the Quad Cities region of Iowa, where it is being handmade by refugee artisans. The chocolate features rich Middle Eastern flavors and is gaining popularity for its distinct taste and backstory.

Why it matters

The arrival of this Dubai-inspired chocolate in the Quad Cities highlights the growing diversity and global influences in the region's food scene. It also provides economic opportunities for refugee communities to showcase their culinary skills and share their cultural heritage.

The details

The chocolate, dubbed "Dubai Chocolate," is being produced by a group of refugee artisans who have settled in the Quad Cities area. Using traditional recipes and techniques from the Middle East, they are crafting small-batch chocolates with flavors like cardamom, rose, and saffron. The chocolates are then sold at local markets and specialty food stores, providing the refugee artisans with a sustainable income.

  • The Dubai Chocolate trend has been gaining global attention over the past few years.
  • The chocolates first arrived in the Quad Cities region in early 2026.

The players

Dubai Chocolate

A unique chocolate trend that originated in Dubai, known for its rich Middle Eastern flavors and handcrafted production.

Quad Cities

A region in Iowa that includes the cities of Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, and Moline, known for its growing diversity and vibrant food scene.

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What they’re saying

“These chocolates are a delicious way to experience the flavors of the Middle East right here in the Midwest.”

— Sarah Ahmed, Quad Cities resident (Local Quad Cities newspaper)

“Making these chocolates has not only allowed us to share our cultural heritage, but also provide for our families. We're grateful for the opportunity to be part of this community.”

— Fatima Khalil, Refugee artisan (Local Quad Cities news website)

What’s next

The refugee artisans plan to expand their production and distribution of the Dubai Chocolate in the Quad Cities region, with the goal of opening a dedicated shop in the near future.

The takeaway

The arrival of Dubai Chocolate in the Quad Cities showcases the growing diversity and global influences in the region's food scene, while also providing economic opportunities for refugee communities to share their cultural heritage and culinary skills.