Dubai’s Beloved Filli Chai Brews a New Chapter in Melbourne with Grand Opening on Lygon Street
From the bustling streets of Dubai to Melbourne’s iconic café precinct, Filli Chai brings its world-famous tea and warm hospitality to Victoria.
Melbourne | P24 News Media
Melbourne’s love affair with great coffee is legendary—but this weekend, it was chai that stole the spotlight.
In a celebration filled with excitement, culture, and community spirit, Dubai’s internationally loved Filli Chai officially opened its doors on Lygon Street, Carlton, introducing Melburnians to the authentic flavours that have made the brand a household name across the UAE and beyond.

The grand inauguration attracted business leaders, community representatives, entrepreneurs, families, and tea lovers, all eager to witness the arrival of a brand that has become synonymous with premium chai and genuine hospitality. More than just the opening of a café, the event celebrated the growing cultural and business ties between Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
From the very first cup served, the atmosphere reflected everything Filli Chai is known for—rich aromas, warm smiles, and a welcoming space where conversations naturally begin over a cup of tea.

Founded in Dubai, Filli Chai has become one of the Middle East’s most recognised tea brands, famous for its signature Zafran (Saffron) Chai. The Melbourne launch was made even more special by the presence of Mr. Rafih Filli, Founder of Filli Chai, who travelled from Dubai to be part of this milestone occasion. Addressing guests, he shared his excitement about bringing the Filli experience to Australia and expressed confidence that Melbourne’s diverse community would embrace the brand’s unique chai culture.

The launch was made possible through UAE Marketings Melbourne, with Ambreen Umair and Umair Zaman serving as launch partners, whose vision and dedication played a key role in introducing the globally celebrated brand to Victoria.
Leading the Melbourne venture were SreeHarsha Reddy, Director of VR Group, Mr. Prajjun Reddy, Director of Finance, and Mr. Sharan, Business Development Manager. Together, they welcomed guests and spoke about their vision of creating more than just a tea cafe—a place where people from all backgrounds can gather, connect, and enjoy authentic flavours in a warm and inviting environment.

The occasion was graced by several distinguished guests and community leaders, including:
Councillor Chaman Tiwari
Dinesh Gourisetty, Liberal Party Leader
K. Nagender Reddy, BRS Party
Chandu Nagamilli, Snack India
Pradeep Kasireddy, Melbourne Telangana Forum
Dr. Sushil Kumar, President, Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria (FIAV)
Rakesh Sharma, President, Hindu Council of Australia (Victoria)
Rakesh Walia, President, Indian Business Council

Community leaders, business owners, and representatives from Melbourne’s multicultural organisations.
Behind the successful launch stood the dedicated VR Group team, whose hard work ensured a memorable opening celebration. The team included Sreekar, Shiva, Shravan, Danny, Bindika, Suraksha, Vamshi, Sai Kiran, and Mahesh.
Throughout the event, guests enjoyed Filli Chai’s signature beverages and Cafe favourites while exploring a beautifully designed space that combines modern café culture with authentic Middle Eastern hospitality. Conversations flowed as freely as the chai, creating an atmosphere that perfectly reflected Melbourne’s multicultural spirit.
As Melbourne continues to embrace cuisines and experiences from around the world, the arrival of Filli Chai represents more than the opening of another café. It is a story of entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and the growing friendship between Dubai and Melbourne—one cup of chai at a time.
For millions around the world, Filli Chai is more than a beverage; it is a symbol of comfort, connection, and shared moments. With its first Melbourne store now open, that experience is set to become a cherished part of the city’s vibrant food culture.

📍 Location: Lygon Street, Carlton, Melbourne