DOHA - The Najma area that houses Souq Haraj, the only second-hand market in the city, is fast emerging as a bustling new Souq, with several leading shops shifting operation to this area.
Souq Haraj has, of late, lost its charm as a second hand market, and a major part of the souq has already been occupied by shops selling new products. Traditionally, the Najma area has been popular for furnishing materials - ranging from carpets, curtains, furniture to hardware items. With the arrival of several leading textile and electronic shops, it is all set to emerge as a new and vibrant market place. A leading jewellery group from India opened its outlet next to Souq Haraj only last week.
Located in the heart of Doha, Najma is one of its most densely populated residential spots with an array of middle class restaurants, groceries and supermarkets. These factors have made the locality the best choice for several businessmen, who have been forced to close shops or shift premises due to the demolitions taking place in the traditional souqs.
A part of the newly renovated Souq Haraj is now occupied by shops that were earlier located in Souq Falah, which was partly razed down recently. The New Year Center and Al Sayed textiles are among the popular shops relocated from Souq Faleh. Several shops in the Shara Kahraba area have also opened outlets here anticipating a demolition in that area in the near future.
"Business is not as good as it was in Souq Faleh. But it is picking up gradually. Many people still do not know about this area," a salesman from a textile shop told The Peninsula yesterday.
An Indian businessman, running an electronic shop said, he had shifted from the National area in Shara Kahraba fearing an imminent demolition. Jumbo Electronics and Japan Textiles from the same area have also opened their outlets here, among other shops.
"We have decided to shift because the authorities are not renewing licences for shops (in the National Area) for more than three months. Here the rents are almost double compared to our old shop. However, sales are not bad. We hope it will pick up when the area becomes more popular," he added.
Asked if there was any assurance from the authorities that their new premises would not be demolished, he said, " Nothing. We have to shift to some place and we found this as the best option available," he added.
By Mohamed Iqbal
© The Peninsula 2008
