People are thronging malls and hypermarkets to beat the heat during the Eid al-Fitr holidays.
With the temperature soaring since the past few days, many residents are choosing to spend the holidays in closed, air-conditioned locations such as malls this year, especially in the late afternoon.
Places like beaches and parks are getting fewer visitors than usual due to the heat, say sources.
Large groups of expatriates could be seen in some of the popular hypermarkets in the country. Many of them are reportedly not buying anything and are just visiting these places to experience the festive fervour and spend some time with friends indoors.
The malls, too, are drawing big crowds. These are particularly popular with couples and families with children. A variety of activities are being conducted in these malls and these are a major draw for children.
The footfall at malls increases from the afternoon and the eateries there too are getting a lot of customers, according to the sources.
Some mall officials and supervisors said their Eid programmes and promotions have helped attract more customers, adding that the hot weather is also prompting many people to remain in air-conditioned spaces.
The Qatar Tourism Authority is conducting the Eid festival in collaboration with several public and private establishments. The attractions have drawn visitors, including those from other GCC countries. In particular, places such as Souq Waqif and Katara – Cultural Village are particularly popular among such visitors, it is understood.