How Do Gulf Drink Tea? 6 Unique Tea Traditions to Discover
In the Gulf, tea is more than just a drink—it’s a cherished tradition symbolizing hospitality and warmth. From sweet Karak in the UAE to mint-infused brews in Oman, each country adds its unique twist. Served to guests as a welcoming gesture, tea reflects the region’s deep-rooted culture, values, and social customs. Across the Gulf, sharing tea continues to unite families, friends, and even strangers in timeless ritual.
How Do Gulf Drink Tea? Country-by-Country Tea Traditions
Tea culture across the Gulf reflects a blend of history, hospitality, and tradition. Though united by shared values, each Gulf country adds its own distinctive touch to tea preparation and serving. From spiced Karak in the UAE to saffron-laced blends in Bahrain, tea rituals reveal unique cultural identities. Here’s how tea is enjoyed across six Gulf nations, connecting communities through warmth, generosity, and a love for tradition.
1. Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, tea (shai) is usually served strong and black with fresh mint or cardamom. It follows Arabic coffee in social settings and is offered to guests as a sign of respect. Dates often accompany the tea to balance the flavor. It’s a staple of hospitality, often shared during family gatherings, tribal meetings, and festive occasions.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Emiratis enjoy both Karak (strong tea with milk and spices) and black tea with saffron or mint. Karak is sold at roadside stalls and enjoyed daily. The tea is often sweet and rich, highlighting Indian influence on local tastes. It’s a beloved part of daily life, often shared with friends during evening gatherings or casual outings.
3. Kuwait
Kuwaitis often brew tea with cardamom, saffron, or rose water for a fragrant experience. It’s served during gatherings and after meals, usually with dates or sweets. Tea plays a key role in hospitality and formal visits. Many households take pride in their unique tea blends, passing down recipes through generations as part of their cultural heritage.
4. Qatar
Qatar’s signature tea is Karak, made with black tea, condensed milk, cardamom, and sugar. It's served piping hot and found at cafes and roadside kiosks. Tea is integral to daily life, especially in the afternoons and during social outings. Sharing Karak has become a cherished ritual, reflecting Qatar’s blend of tradition and modern café culture.
5. Bahrain
Bahrain embraces both Arabic and South Asian tea traditions. Karak is a favorite, and tea is often spiced with cloves or cinnamon. It’s commonly shared in gatherings and has become a symbol of multicultural heritage and comfort. Whether at home or in cafes, tea in Bahrain reflects the island’s diverse cultural influences and its warm spirit of hospitality.
6. Oman
Omanis enjoy strong black tea infused with spices like cardamom, cloves, or ginger. Tea accompanies almost every meal and is offered to guests throughout the day. It's often paired with dates or halwa, reflecting Omani generosity and warmth.
In the Gulf, tea is more than a beverage—it’s a reflection of identity and unity. While each country adds its unique flavor, the shared love for tea highlights the region’s deep-rooted values of generosity, community, and tradition. From daily rituals to festive gatherings, tea continues to bring people together across the Gulf.