Souq Waqif prepares for Eid al-Adha purchases

(MENAFN – Gulf Times) The corridors of Souq Waqif are coming back to “life” after being “deserted” for several months due to government measures to control the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19). Eid al-Adha season brings joy to traders here as residents start to visit stores here to celebrate Eid.
The souk’s perfume, textile and couture shops have a constant flow of people.
“No large crowds have been seen so far. However, we are starting to see a rush, with a few days left for Eid,” said fabric merchant Zainudheen.
Qatari men mainly come here to buy the traditional * thawb (also spelled * thobe) and the pants they wear during Eid celebrations, while Qatari women opt for the traditional * abayas and * jalabiyas.
* Thaws are mostly sold in white, while * abayas and * jalabiyas are available in different designs and colors.
“Some choose ready-made clothes, while most shoppers opt for clothes they have sewn in stores here,” said Abdul Rahman, another fabric merchant.
Sewing services are available in some stores that sell the clothes.
Arabs, according to saleswoman Jaya Prakash, opt for * thawb and * kameez while those of other ethnicities choose * jubbas, pajamas, shirts and pants.
Indian and Pakistani women, according to fabric merchants in Souq Waqif, tended to choose the * conventional churidars.
Traders added that no change has been observed in clothing choices among Qataris and expatriates.
Souq Waqif has rows of shops that attract shoppers with traditional headgear (* gatra) and skullcaps (* gahfiya).
Store owners here say that ready-made * gatras have been in high demand in recent years.
* Gatras for men and children are available in different colors and designs, except normal white.
The Qataris also have a fondness for buttons which are sold here in several designs and sizes.
“For some Qataris, Eid is the time to buy new rosaries and watches,” Abdul Rahman said.
Sales of perfumes and Oud also tended to peak during the Eid season.
Ahmed Shahbaj, who runs a perfume store, said more and more people are coming for perfumes and Oud after the lull attributed to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The scenario remains bleak after the Covid-19 crisis hit the market. But things are improving, ”he said.
Shahbaj added that most people prefer to come shopping in the evening to avoid the summer heat during the day.

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