5 Exotic Coffees to Cool Down and Perk Up

When the Gulf heat kicks in, there’s nothing better than an ice-cold, flavor-packed coffee to energize your day. Whether you're relaxing by the beach or escaping the sun indoors, these exotic iced coffee drinks from around the world bring bold flavors, creamy textures, and a refreshing kick—no alcohol, all caffeine.

1. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

Rich, creamy, and bold. Made with sweetened condensed milk and strong dark roast coffee, this classic Vietnamese brew is a deliciously cool way to stay energized.

How to make it:

Brew dark roast coffee using a phin filter.
Mix with 2 tsp of sweetened condensed milk.
Pour over a tall glass of ice and stir.

2. Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang)

A complex, spiced delight. Oliang combines coffee with a blend of roasted grains and seeds, sweetened with condensed milk. It’s sweet, aromatic, and incredibly refreshing.

How to make it:

Brew Thai coffee blend or strong black coffee.
Add sugar and top with a splash of sweetened condensed milk.
Serve over crushed ice.

3. Japanese Iced Coffee

Crisp, clean, and bright. Unlike cold brew, this method involves brewing hot coffee directly over ice, locking in the flavor while rapidly cooling it down.

How to make it:

Brew a light roast coffee using pour-over method.
Brew directly over ice for a refreshing, vibrant taste.
Serve immediately.

4. Dalgona Iced Coffee (Korean Whipped Coffee)

Instagram-worthy and frothy. This whipped coffee craze is still a summer favorite—fluffy, creamy, and ice cold.

How to make it:

Whisk together 2 tbsp instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until frothy.
Pour milk over ice and spoon the coffee whip on top.
Stir before sipping.

5. Portuguese Mazagran (Alcohol-Free Version)

Coffee meets citrus. This refreshing mix of iced coffee and lemon is tangy, bold, and ideal for summer afternoons in the GCC heat.

How to make it:

Brew strong coffee and let it cool.
Mix with lemon juice and sugar to taste.
Serve over ice with a lemon slice.