Dubai's favourite chai gets an oat milk makeover at the airport

Dubai's iconic karak chai gets a plant-based makeover at DXB's new Karak Club pop-up. Project Chaiwala partners with Oatly for dairy-free versions of the UAE's beloved drink, available across Terminal 1 and 3 outlets through February 15.

Project Chaiwala and Oatly have launched The Karak Club exclusively at Dubai International Airport, bringing plant-based versions of the UAE's beloved karak chai to Terminal 3 and select outlets in Terminal 1. According to Project Chaiwala's press release, the limited-time pop-up runs until February 15, 2026, targeting international travellers with Dubai's "unofficial national drink" reimagined using dairy alternatives.

The concept behind The Karak Club

The collaboration transforms traditional fresh milk karak into what co-founder Ahmed Kazim calls "a global lifestyle experience" using Oatly's plant-based alternatives. Beyond the signature karak, the menu includes iced chai, smoothies, shakes, and soft serve — formats that work well for travellers grabbing drinks between flights.

"Born from our first Karak Club community event at Project Chaiwala's Cinema Akil flagship in Alserkal Avenue, this DXB edition targets young, global urban travellers seeking authentic flavours of Dubai's third-culture identity in a modern, accessible way," explains co-founder Justin Joseph.

Where to find it at DXB

The Karak Club operates across multiple locations in partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail. In Terminal 3, you'll find it at Concourse C (S34), Daily DXB in Concourse B, and Concourse A. Terminal 1 has limited availability at FIX Coffee and Daily DXB outlets.

The setup makes sense for DXB's massive upgrade plans — giving the world's busiest international airport a distinctly Dubai F&B option that isn't another generic coffee chain.

Limited-edition merchandise and cultural significance

Beyond beverages, travellers can pick up exclusive Karak Club merchandise, including postcards, custom playing cards, luggage tags, stickers, and tote bags. It's travel retail done right — items that actually connect to the local culture rather than generic airport souvenirs.

"We're celebrating the heritage of karak chai, reimagined with Oatly as a delicious alternative to the traditional dairy-based drink," notes Dimitri de Martignac, Oatly's Regional Director for MEA. The timing aligns with growing demand for healthier food options across the GCC.

Getting the Karak Club experience

The pop-up runs daily till February 15, 2026. Pricing hasn't been mentioned, but expect airport premiums on what's likely to be positioned as a premium plant-based offering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Karak Club at DXB?

The Karak Club is a limited-time pop-up by Project Chaiwala and Oatly at Dubai International Airport, offering plant-based karak chai and exclusive merchandise from December 15, 2025, to February 15, 2026.

Where can I find The Karak Club at Dubai Airport?

It's located across DXB Terminal 3 (Concourse C S34, Daily DXB Concourse B, Concourse A) and select Terminal 1 outlets (FIX Coffee, Daily DXB).

What drinks does The Karak Club offer?

The menu includes plant-based karak chai, iced chai, smoothies, shakes, and soft serve, all made with Oatly's dairy alternatives instead of traditional fresh milk.

Can I buy Karak Club merchandise?

Yes, limited-edition items include postcards, custom playing cards, luggage tags, stickers, and tote bags celebrating the collaboration between Project Chaiwala and Oatly.