Karak tea in the Gulf: a practical guide to the region's favourite brew

Walk past any small cafeteria or petrol station in the Gulf in the late afternoon and you will see the same scene: groups of friends, families and workers clutching small paper cups of a steaming, caramel-coloured tea. This is karak, the region's unofficial national drink, and no visit to the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait or Saudi Arabia is complete without trying it.

What is karak tea?

Karak is a strong black tea brewed with evaporated milk and sugar, and often spiced with cardamom, saffron or ginger. The name comes from the Hindi word for 'strong', reflecting its roots in the Indian subcontinent. Brought to the Gulf by South Asian expatriates decades ago, karak has been warmly adopted and made local with its own twists.

The result is a rich, comforting drink that is neither as heavy as a full chai latte nor as plain as an English cuppa. It is usually served in small quantities – a little more than an espresso cup – and drunk quickly while hot.

Where to find it

Karak is everywhere in the Gulf, from humble roadside shacks to smart cafes. The most authentic experience is at a small cafeteria, a no-frills counter with a few plastic chairs outside, often open from early morning until late at night. You will also find karak at petrol stations, beach kiosks and drive-through windows across the region.

In Dubai, the areas of Deira and Bur Dubai are famous for their concentration of karak spots. In Doha, the old souq area and the Corniche are good places to look. Muscat's Muttrah and Ruwi districts have their own long-standing karak traditions. No matter where you are, simply look for a queue of people holding small cups – that is your sign.

How to order and enjoy

Ordering karak is simple. The word itself is enough – 'karak, please' – but you can customise it. Ask for 'karak with less sugar' or 'karak with extra cardamom'. Some places offer variations with saffron, which gives a golden colour and a subtle floral note, or with ginger for a spicier kick.

It is meant to be drunk standing at the counter or sitting on a plastic stool outside, often accompanied by a small snack like a samosa or a packet of biscuits. There is no ceremony; karak is democratic and fast. A cup costs only a few dirhams or riyals, and many locals stop for one several times a day.

If you prefer a cooler version, some cafes now serve iced karak, especially in summer. It is not traditional, but it is refreshing and increasingly popular.

Variations to try

• Classic karak: strong black tea, evaporated milk, sugar and green cardamom, brewed together until velvety.
• Saffron karak: a lighter, more aromatic version, often made with a pinch of saffron threads. Common in the UAE and Qatar.
• Ginger karak: a spicier, warming cup, popular in winter and during Ramadan.
• Iced karak: the same sweet brew chilled and served over ice, ideal for the Gulf's hot months.
• Karak with rose water: a delicate twist sometimes found in Oman, adding a floral note.

A word on etiquette

Karak culture is casual and friendly, so there are few rules. It is polite to finish your cup before leaving the counter area, as many spots reuse the small cups. If you are offered karak as a guest, accept it – it is a gesture of hospitality. And remember, the best karak is the one you stumble upon while exploring a neighbourhood, not the one in a guidebook.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-term resident, taking a few minutes for a karak is one of the simplest ways to feel the rhythm of Gulf life.