Due to the lack of tourists and while many residents in Qatar are out of the country on vacation, establishments inside Souq Waqif are struggling to attract more customers this summer, it is learnt.
The centuries-old Souq Waqif is one of Doha’s top tourist destinations, especially during the cooler months when various activities and events are held within the area.
Many shopkeepers report “excellent sales” during peak season, which is usually in the winter time. During this period, tourists and residents alike are often seen taking day or night strolls along the cobblestone-paved streets or exploring the Souq’s labyrinth-like lanes.
However, the mood at the Souq changes drastically during the summer when high temperatures discourage many residents from frequenting the shops and restaurants. The season is also the time when many Qataris and expatriates leave the country for holidays.
Feroz, who tends a souvenir shop that sells various antiques, handicraft, and other gift items, said the store would sometimes offer some products at bargain prices to entice customers.
He said the store’s bestsellers among tourists include refrigerator magnets, key chains, lamps, camel figurines, jewellery boxes, and small trinkets, among others. “Most souvenir shops rely on tourists for sales. But since it is the summer, we do not get as much tourists compared to our peak season in the winter,”
he said.
Gilbert, a restaurant staff, echoed the same sentiments, saying daytime operations are often dull during the summer.
“We still get some of our regular customers during the daytime and some occasional walk-ins but that is not enough to boost sales. Sales are better during the weekends but it is definitely a far cry from what the restaurant makes during the winter season,” he said.
During events like the Souq Waqif Spring Festival, Gilbert said staff members go on extended shifts, up to 12 hours a day just to accommodate throngs of customers.
“Most restaurants are packed in the winter and they add more tables and chairs outdoors because many customers prefer al fresco dining to enjoy the mood of the Souq and the festivities, if any. But now, it is completely the
opposite,” he said.
According to Ashraf, a storekeeper at Al Sanafer Centre, sales for garments drop as low as 50% during the summer compared to regular days of the cooler months.
“There are three seasons where most stores make the most profit - Ramadan, before the onset of school season, and winter; these are good occasions to buy clothes, spices, perfumes and other items,” he said.