Doha - With the onset of the holy month of Ramadan, Qatar's most recognisable traditional bazaar, the Souq Waqif, is abuzz with visitors, diners and shoppers flocking to stalls, shops and cafes soon after evening prayers.
In sharp contrast to last year when it was still undergoing massive refurbishment during the holy month, Souq Waqif has become a more popular address than ever attracting a large number of locals and expatriates alike looking for a quiet and relaxing place.
With the evening weather getting cooler and the suffocating heat and humidity all gone, scores of nationals and expatriates could be seen enjoying their shisha at an open terrace for which great care has been taken to create an appropriate atmosphere for traditional Arabic setting.
Others prefer to just stroll along the stone-finished pavement passing by the numerous alley-way stores peppering the souq while children have fun taking donkey-rides. A view of the Souq at night.
Stalls serving traditional Qatari dishes, numerous cafes opposite the terrace offering Arabic cuisine and coffee are some of the cultural flavours that visitors can enjoy at Souq Waqif. And this is perhaps what underscores its appeal.
The strong, delicious aroma of spices from nearby shops, the gentle fragrances of shisha combine in the souq to provide a somewhat mystical, at the same time relaxing ambience only heightened by the old and rustic architecture of the renovated traditional marketplace.
To complete the Souq Waqif's portrait, cobblers are busy mending shoes or luggage and technicians do watch repairs in their small cubicles, and guards in traditional dress on patrol give the souq a unique atmosphere; like going back in time.
Souq Waqif or 'standing souq' evolved from a weekend market for local inhabitants selling wool, milk, meat and other staples. Today, a whole range of products are up for grabs from foodstuff, giftware, toys, shoes, leather products, bags, leisure products, lighting and household wares. You can also buy a variety of spices, traditional clothing and perfumes.
The numerous shops spread throughout Souq Waqif are great pick up places for gifts during Ramadan. With a wide assortment of products and gifts to choose from and at affordable rates, it is no wonder the souq has become a favourite for locals and expatriates alike.
Spice vendors standing in front of towering boxes overflowing with herb and spices and perfume traders inviting shoppers from their door steps with 'good bargain' offers are doing brisk business during the evenings. With a tempting display of every imaginable Arab scents, frankincense and different oils, the shops are drawing large number of people to bargain for such luxury.
For those looking for a relaxing evening at shisha cafés or a traditional Ramadan dining experience in an ambience and setting evoking the days gone by, then Souq Waqif is a spot worth considering.
© The Peninsula 2007
