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The price of karak was 50 fils for a quarter-century, rising to Dh1 in 2004.

Karak, an elixir of sugar, dehydrated milk and cardamom-infused tea, is the informal national drink of the UAE. All photos: AP

It was one of the rare treats that a dirham could buy in Dubai, which draws both the world’s richest people and legions of low-paid migrant workers.

As supply chain shortages and Russia's war on Ukraine lead to price increases around the world, Dubai's tea sellers are bumping up prices to Dh1.50.

It's a blow to migrant workers who depend on the drink as a daily refreshment ritual.

The price of karak was 50 fils for a quarter-century, rising to Dh1 in 2004.

Karak, an elixir of sugar, dehydrated milk and cardamom-infused tea, is the informal national drink of the UAE. All photos: AP

It was one of the rare treats that a dirham could buy in Dubai, which draws both the world’s richest people and legions of low-paid migrant workers.

As supply chain shortages and Russia's war on Ukraine lead to price increases around the world, Dubai's tea sellers are bumping up prices to Dh1.50.

It's a blow to migrant workers who depend on the drink as a daily refreshment ritual.

The price of karak was 50 fils for a quarter-century, rising to Dh1 in 2004.

UAE's 'national drink' karak tea hit by inflation - in pictures

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, meets Sheikh Meshal, the Emir of Kuwait. Photo: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed/X

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed visits Kuwait - in pictures

Sarah Kurukci and her fiancé Mahmoud Obeid. How properties in Dubai are getting smaller yet more expensive. Rukan Tower, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Sarah Kurukci's apartment