Chai Karak, or Karak tea, is a cherished beverage that blends rich history with robust flavor, embodying the cultural tapestry of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this strong, spiced milk tea has become a symbol of hospitality and cultural identity across the Middle East, especially in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. The journey of Chai Karak began with the migration of South Asian workers to the Middle East. They brought with them the traditional recipes of masala chai, which adapted over time into the unique blend now known as chai karak. The tea’s name itself, derived from the Urdu word “karakah,” meaning “strong” or “intense,” reflects its bold and hearty nature.