Welcome to the Shopping in Qatar e-guide of our 95th issue of the ever-evolving Marhaba. This issue marks Marhaba’s 32nd anniversary. However, it has also been one of our most challenging editions due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Our team has worked diligently, both in print and online, to provide the most accurate and up-todate information, though the situation remains fluid.
Through the challenges of print media, the pandemic, and the current Middle East crisis, Marhaba has stood the test of time, and 32 years on, it remains Qatar’s premier information guide for tourists, visitors, and residents.
The shopping sector is ever-growing with tourists and residents alike are spoiled for choice. See Shopping in Qatar listing of malls, souqs and other shopping centres. Our Interesting Reads include Bisht: A Significant Cultural Symbol, which explores the bisht’s recent inscription on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, and A Booming E-Commerce Market examines the safety and rapid growth of the sector.
There is plenty more to explore in this e-guide and across our full collection of 10 free e-guides, covering everything from events and activities to shopping, education, hospitality, dining, event planning, and business and economy. You can also visit marhaba.qa for the latest news, along with food, staycation, and car reviews, plus events and entertainment options. Visit marhaba.qa for up to date news, information, and event listings as the regional crisis continues to develop.
Whether you're reading this e-guide from Qatar or abroad, we hope you find it insightful. Don’t forget to follow us on social media and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter, we look forward to connecting with you.
Hilary Bainbridge Founder and Managing Editor
MarhabaGuideQatar @MarhabaGuideQatar
@MarhabaQatar
MarhabaQatar
MarhabaInformationGuide
Useful Numbers
Telephone numbers and locations for some of the most popular retail outlets.
Feature – Bisht: A Significant Cultural Symbol
Qatar recently marked a cultural milestone with the listing of the Arab Bisht on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Shopping Shopping
Shopping in Qatar
• Overview • Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Rewards and Schemes • Coupon and Discount Websites and Apps
• Shopping Festivals and Sales • Taxes
• Malls and Other Shopping Centres Listings
• Al Furjan and Azzab Markets • Central Markets (Aswaq)
• Commercial Shopping Streets • Souqs • Gold Souq
Map of Souq Area
Founder & Managing Editor
Hilar y Bainbridge
Editorial
Sarah Palmer (Editor)
Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)
Terr y Sutcliffe
Adver tising
Howard Bainbridge
Marrian Magtira
Retail Sales
Ayen Molina
Online/Digital
Patrisha Manzon
Char lotte Wright
Juggy Gill
Isra Mubarak
Design and Ar twor k
Dick Tamayo
Mar Principe
Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections ever y issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels.
Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 0083, 4465 5533
General Information
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Useful Numbers
Marhaba updates this section every issue; however, details may change after going to press. Shops frequently change contact numbers, and at times, locations. To doublecheck information or find contact details for shops, call or text 180.
In addition to in-store shopping, most shops, stores, and even pharmacies offer online shopping through their own websites or apps for added convenience. Some are also available on delivery apps such as Talabat, Snoonu, and Rafeeq, where a wide range of shopping items can be found, often with offers and discounts.
*Indicates multiple locations. Map references in green.
Gulf Greetings (Hallmark)* (City Center Doha) C4 4483 8117
4486 3533
The best gifts and souvenirs can be found at Souq Waqif, Al Wakrah Old Souq, and Katara Cultural Village, as well as at gift shops across Qatar Museums (QM). You can also visit QC Market (market.qacreates.com), which brings together products from across QM’s museum gift shops.
Jewellery and Watches
Ali Bin Ali Watches & Jewelry* (Mall of Qatar) C1 4444 0228
Alfardan Jewellery* (Place Vendôme) D2 4142 4117
Al Jaber Watches* (The Mall) D4 4467 8484
Al Muftah Jewellery* (Al Sadd) D3 4444 1313
Al Romaizan* (Gold Souq) D4 5512 6530
Al Sulaiman Jewellers* (Gold Souq) D4 4437 6677
Damas* (Al Mana Center, Al Sadd) D3 4442 5428
Domasco Watches* (City Center Doha) C4 4483 9327
Marhaba Jewellery (Gold Souq) D4 4431 8055
Pearl Gallery* (Wathnan Mall) D2 4480 0124
Pure Gold Jewellers* (Villaggio Mall) D2 3111 9145
Key Cutting/Shoe and Watch Repair
Mr Quality* (City Center Doha) C4 4017 2845
Kitchenware
Articles (Royal Plaza) D3 4413 1188
Table Arts Qatar* (Lagoona Mall) B4 5176 1555
Tavola* (City Center Doha) C4 4493 0102
Villeroy & Boch* (Salwa Rd) D3 4436 3561
Musical Equipment
51 East* (Call Centre) 4436 1111
Angham Al Sharq (Al Gharrafa) B2 3357 8910
Badie Studio & Stores (Al Souq Area) D4 4442 3554
FNAC* (Lagoona Mall) B4 4436 2222
Nujoom Alain (Al Rayyan) D2 7043 9860
Virgin Megastore* (Villaggio Mall) D2 4495 9060
Opticians
Al Dar Optics* (Al Nasr St) D3 4436 3461
Al Jabor Vision Technology (C Ring Rd) D4 4442 7152
Yateem Optician* (Lagoona Mall) B4 4412 4380
Oriental Crafts and Carpets
Bradran Persian Carpets (The Mall) D4 4467 8886
Oriental Carpet Company (Al Sadd) D4 4447 9794
Shahrzad Carpets (Gold Souq) D4 4442 3210
The Carpet Cellar (Msheireb) D4 3116 8427
The Rugman (Al Nasr St) D3 5555 3407
Paint Shops
ACE (Doha Festival City) B2 800 971 223
Hempel Paints* (Industrial Area) F3 4455 9000
Jotun Paints* (Call Centre) 4441 2728
Party Decorations and Costumes
Crazy Party* (Villaggio Mall) D2 4450 7777
Events (Royal Plaza) D3 4413 1155
Party Kingdom (Bin Mahmoud) D4 4435 3501
Party Mania (The Centre) D4 4441 8810
Personal Care/Pharmacies
Boots* (Villaggio Mall) D2 4452 9655
Care n Cure Pharmacy* (Najma) D4 3158 3027
Green Apple Pharmacy* (Doha Festival City) B2 3073 3933
Kulud Pharmacy* (Al Markhiya) C3 4487 7784
Wellcare Pharmacy*
Pet Shops
Pets & More (City Center Doha) C4 5569 4222
See Pets and Animal Welfare in Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.
Photographic Studios/Photographers
Benny Antoun (piano tuner/technician) 5551 4501
Boom Art Studio (Al Markhiya) C3 4411 1070
Gulf Colours* (Najma) D4 4431 1181
Picture World Studio* (Salwa Rd) D3 4469 4710
Sports Equipment
Decathlon* (Villaggio Mall) D2 4495 9080
Doha Golf Club B3 4496 0750
Foot Locker* (Villaggio Mall) D2 4413 5315
Go Sport* (City Center Doha) C4 4463 1644
Sports Corner* (Call Centre) 4036 2211
Tailoring, Textiles and Haberdashery
Al Misk Tailors (Al Ghanim) D4 4432 1141
Century Textiles & Tailors (Al Khaleej St) D4 4442 1283
Lexus Tailoring & Stores* (Al Sadd) D3 4432 2761
Sara's Secrets (Al Sadd) D3 4432 1030
Singer (Al Nasr St) D3 4443 5731
Toys, Children's Learning and Items
Babyshop* (Gulf Mall) C3 4430 8305
Early Learning Centre* (Hyatt Plaza) D2 4469 7964
Kiddy Zone* (Landmark Mall) C3 4421 7215
Space Toys (City Center Doha) C4 4483 4638
Toys 'R' Us* (Al Sadd) D3 4443 5904
Bisht: A Significant Cultural Symbol
By Ola Diab
Qatar recently marked a cultural milestone with the listing of the Arab Bisht on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Headed by the Minister of Culture, HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, the State of Qatar participated in the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO, held in India from 8 – 13 December 2025. During the session, the Arab Bisht was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, marking the first joint Arab nomination led by Qatar, with the participation of nine Arab countries. The inscription highlights the Ministry of Culture’s efforts to safeguard traditional crafts, particularly Bisht-making in Qatar, one of the most significant practices linked to social identity and national symbolism. It also marks the success of the Ministry’s 2023 initiative to register the Arab Bisht as an intangible cultural heritage, securing international recognition of its cultural and social value.
The listing represents an important step in safeguarding Qatari and Arab heritage, affirming Qatar’s commitment to protecting this time-honoured craft and passing it on to future generations amid rapid social and economic change. It also highlights the enduring role of Gulf and Arab heritage in expressing collective identity and shared civilisational memory.
According to HE Sheikh Abdulrahman, the file presents the Bisht as a cross-generational cultural
symbol deeply embedded in social life, noting that it was worn by Qatari ancestors during celebrations and educational settings and continues to bear witness to the region’s history.
The Bisht gained global visibility when The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani draped Lionel Messi, captain of Argentina’s national team, in a Qatari Bisht following Argentina’s victory at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The gesture became a powerful symbol of Qatari and Gulf culture, reinforcing the Bisht’s status as an emblem of prestige, dignity, and social standing. ‘Bisht’ topped Google searches after Messi lifted the World Cup trophy in the Arab garment.
The Bisht
A Bisht, also known as mishlah or a'aba, is a traditional, sheer flowing outer cloak worn by men in the Arab region, specifically the Gulf, symbolising prestige and worn for special occasions like weddings or by dignitaries, often featuring a decorative gold or silver embroidery or thread along the edges known as zari. It is traditionally wool, camel hair, or goat hair, with more affordable versions in cotton or polyester. It is worn over a thobe, a long robe commonly worn by men throughout the Arab region. It's draped over the shoulders and wrapped across the chest, leaving the right hand free, without buttons. The Bisht is worn open to hang or pull across the chest with one hand while walking.
The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani draped Lionel Messi in a Qatari Bisht during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
Bisht House
In December 2025, Katara Cultural Village opened the Bisht House, a new heritage centre dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional craft or craftsmanship of Bisht-making, a refined art involving selecting fabrics and intricate zari gold/ silver embroidery.
Featuring the production process, the centre offers visitors an insight into the various stages of producing the Bisht, from selecting fabrics to intricate embroidery using gold and silver zari threads.
Bisht House aims to highlight one of the region's most refined traditional crafts, known for its precision and artistic detail, and to reinforce its cultural and historical significance. According to the founder of the Bisht House, Sami Al Hawaj, the Bisht is not merely a garment but a work of art that reflects Gulf identity, elegance and heritage. The centre also displays Bishts dating back more than 50 years, alongside traditional Qatari garments. For more information, visit katara.net
For centuries, Bedouins used to wear the cloak in the cooler months to insulate themselves from the winter chill, but today it is predominantly worn on special occasions. The cloak is most frequently worn by grooms on their wedding day, by royalty at formal events, and even at funeral receptions. Regality and status is another feature carried by the black garment.
The finest Bishts are created from spun camel hair, which yields a delicate, cashmere-like fabric. While more reasonably priced variants are created from cotton and polyester, others are fashioned from goat’s hair or wool. The fabric is then dyed, usually in black but occasionally in brown and white as well. Most common are black, brown, and cream/ beige, with colours chosen for fashion or occasion.
The origins of the Bisht
Some historians argue that the Bisht serves as the model for the gowns worn by university graduates at graduation ceremonies around the globe, and were first given to graduates of Al Qarawiyyin University in Morocco in the ninth century to set a scholar apart from the rest of society. Students from Europe who studied at these institutions received their degrees and then returned to their home countries donning Arab robes, ‘thawb’ or ‘qamees’, which served as a sign that they had completed their studies at a Muslim university, according to research.
This imitation of donning the baggy, wide-designed attire worn by Arabs and Muslims has continued today and expanded worldwide.
Shopping for a Bisht Bishts can be either handmade or machine-made, with prices varying accordingly. They are widely available at Souq Waqif and other traditional souqs, as well as at specialised Bisht and Qatari tailoring shops across the city. Bishts can also be custom-made for young boys. Handmade Bishts, distinguished by the intricate zari embroidery and superior fabric quality, command significantly higher prices than machine-made options, typically ranging from QAR200 to QAR10,000.
In recent years, the traditional male Bisht has inspired elements of contemporary female abaya design, with designers incorporating zariembroidered edges, loose silhouettes, and buttonless styles reminiscent of the Bisht.
Beyond clothing, the Bisht has also influenced a range of products, from Bisht-inspired cushions and furniture to toys dressed in miniature Bishts, reflecting its enduring cultural and aesthetic significance.
HE Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, the General Manager of the Katara Cultural Village Foundation, at the Bisht House
Black Bisht abayas. Source: Boksha (left) and The Gallery (right)
Shopping in Qatar
Shopping is one of the most popular pastimes in Qatar, as is spending leisure time at malls, souqs, and other shopping destinations. Beyond shopping, these places offer dining, entertainment, movies, and other recreational activities. Malls, in particular, have become key entertainment hubs where people go to shop, eat, play, and socialise.
During Qatar's hot summer months, malls and other indoor shopping destinations become especially popular.
Qatar continuously witnesses the opening of new malls with the most recent being Doha Mall in Abu Hamour and North Plaza in Umm Al Amad in 2024. Other relatively new malls and shopping centres include Lulu Mall, Giardino in The Pearl Island, Printemps Doha in Doha Oasis, and Place Vendôme Qatar in Lusail City. The first shopping and entertainment mall in Qatar was The Mall, which opened in 1997. Prior to The Mall, The Centre served as a shopping destination since the 1970s.
Malls and other shopping centres vary in size and offerings, but all provide an opportunity for shopping, entertainment and dining. See 'Places to Shop' in the following pages for more details.
Qatar's largest malls include City Center Doha, Doha Festival City, and Mall of Qatar. Smaller malls such as The Mall and Al Asmakh Mall, along with neighbourhood malls like Dar Al Salam, Doha Souq, J-Mall, and Palms Mall, cater to different shopping needs. Some malls, like the Ezdan Malls managed by Ezdan Holding Group, have branches in various areas of Qatar. Additionally, the 01, 02, 03, and 04 Malls, managed by Al Mana Capital Real Estate, are spread across the country.
Luxury plays a significant role in all aspects of life in Qatar, especially in shopping with malls like Place Vendôme Qatar, ALHAZM, The Gate Mall, Lagoona Mall, Katara's 21 High st, and Doha Oasis's Printemps Doha. Malls like Villaggio, Mall of Qatar, and Doha Festival City feature exclusive sections dedicated to luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Gucci, Valentino, and Dolce & Gabbana.
Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
There are many local and international hypermarkets and supermarkets in Qatar with several branches both in and outside malls.
Popular international hypermarkets include Carrefour carrefourqatar.com, Family Food Centre (FFC) and Family Mart familyholding.qa, Lulu Hypermarket and Lulu Express
qatar.luluhypermarket.com, Mega Mart, Monoprix Qatar monoprix.qa, and SPAR Qatar spar-international.com
Qatari retailers include Al Meera Consumer Goods Company almeera.com.qa, Ansar Gallery and AH Market ansargallery.com, Rawabi Hypermarket rawabihypermarket.com, Souq Al Baladi and Baladi Express baladiexpress.com Masskar Hypermarket masskarhypermarket.com, Marza Hypermarket marzahypermarket.com, Safari Hypermarket safarihypermarket.com, and Saudia Hypermarket saudiagroup.com. In addition to these established local brands, budget and discount retailers include Baladna baladnashop.com and Food Palace foodpalaceqatar.com. Most, if not all, of the retailers offer online shopping with home delivery and are also available on delivery apps such as Talabat, Snoonu, Rafeeq, Deliveroo, and Keeta.
Rewards and Schemes
Retailers offer free iOS and Android apps that let shoppers earn points and rewards:
• Air Miles shopping rewards scheme. airmilesme.com
• Aura Rewards, formerly known as Alshaya Card, is a loyalty programme and mobile app. Earn and redeem points when you shop or dine at brands operated by Alshaya Group. alshaya.com
• Blue is a loyalty programme and mobile app by Al Futtaim Retail Group. Shop and earn rewards at their group brands across the GCC and Egypt. mybluerewards.com
• Family Club is a loyalty card by FFC. familyclub.qa
• Festival Rewards is a loyalty mobile app by Doha Festival City, which gives you access to exclusive offers, sale events, and discounts. dohafestivalcity.com
• LuLu Happiness is LuLu's loyalty rewards programme available on the Lulu app. happiness.luluhypermarket.com/qa
• M’Loyalty is a MONOPRIX Loyalty programme and mobile app. monoprix.qa/m-loyalty
• Meera Rewards is Al Meera's loyalty programme and mobile app. almeera.com.qa
• MyClub app from Carrefour Qatar. Valet Trolley service provides free home delivery to MyClub cardholders for purchases of QAR250+ when shopping in-store. carrefourqatar.com
• Nojoom app from Ooredoo. ooredoo.qa
• Qatar Airways Priviledge Club Link your Visa or Mastercard to your Privilege Club account to collect or spend Avios when shopping with over 600 partners in Qatar. qatarairways.com/en-qa/Privilege-Club.html
• Shukran is a loyalty programme from Landmark Retail Ltd which includes Centrepoint. shukranrewards.com
Banks have also teamed up with retailers to make similar offers. Doha Bank and LuLu Hypermarket entice customers with the LuLu-Doha Bank shopping credit card providing customers with up to 5% savings on purchases at their stores throughout Qatar. QNB LIFE Rewards loyalty programme offers its debit and credit customers rewards at three levels of membership, dependent upon salary. Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) has QIC Advantage Club qicadvantageclub.com
There are many other points and rewards schemes whether at banks, malls, shops or even pharmacies. Find out wherever you shop.
Coupon and Discount Websites and Apps
Save on everyday purchases with coupon and discount websites and apps that provide discount and buy-one-get-one free offers in shops, restaurants, spas and beauty centres, hotels, healthcare centres, entertainment and leisure centres, and other destinations.
QGrabs qgrabs.com and Urban Point urbanpoint.com are daily and monthly discount websites and apps.
The Entertainer theentertainerme.com and My Book Qatar mybookqatar.com are money-saving buy-one-get-one free apps, offering thousands of offers that are frequently renewed.
Shopping Festivals and Sales
Shopping festivals occur at various times of the year in Qatar, offering great discounts, special sales and offers, and prizes.
Hosted annually by Visit Qatar, the marketing and promotional arm of Qatar Tourism (QT), Shop Qatar is Qatar's biggest shopping and entertainment festival. The month-long festival features more than 20 participating malls and shopping destinations,
offering huge discounts, kids and family activations, concerts and live entertainment, and competitions and live draws providing participants with the chance to win incredible prizes such as cash and luxury cars.
The annual Big Sale of Club Apparel, also known as Big Brands Big Deals, offers unbeatable prices on products from more than 30 major retail brands like Steve Madden, Aldo, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Nine West, Charles & Keith, Juicy Couture, Aéropostale, and more.
Shopping sales and offers, such as Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving that marks the start of the holiday shopping season and is accompanied with deals and discounts, and White Friday, the Middle Eastern equivalent of Black Friday, take place in November. There are also seasonal sales for summer and winter, as well as special offers during public holidays like Qatar National Day, Qatar Sports Day, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.
Reflect Your Respect
Originally called 'One of Us' when it began in 2012, 'Reflect Your Respect' is a grassroots campaign targeting non-Qatari residents and visitors, both men and women, to preserve and respect Qatar's culture and values by dressing modestly in public spaces, especially malls and other shopping destinations. The campaign promotes modest attire, covering from shoulders to knees.
Entry gate signs indicate allowed and prohibited clothing, such as sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing attire. Security guards may turn visitors away for inappropriate clothing.
In addition, the campaign complies with laws issued by public authorities, adhering to public order and morality, including restrictions on public displays of affection, and indecent or obscene gestures, acts, and phrases.
Taxes
No VAT or Sales Tax in Qatar ensures prices are competitive with other shopping destination. However, on 1 January 2019, the General Tax Authority (GTA) implemented the Excise Tax Law (No 25 of 2018) on 'health-damaging' goods, with a 100% tax on tobacco and alcohol products, energy drinks and special purpose goods, and a 50% tax on carbonated drinks.
A Booming E-Commerce Market
By Ola Diab
Newly launched Mega Deals and Tajer Shops enter the e-commerce landscape at a pivotal moment of rapid growth and transformation.
In January 2026, Tajer announced the launch of a new e-commerce platform in Qatar, Tajer Shops (tajershops.com).
Built in Qatar for a modern, globally connected audience, Tajer Shops enables shoppers to explore products without borders while fostering closer connections to the brands and people behind them.
With more than 6,000 products already available, and new regional and global partners joining the platform, Tajer Shops offers customers access to meaningful variety within a crafted and reliable environment. Designed for modern lifestyles, the platform emphasises convenience and accessibility, with delivery available to over 90 countries worldwide.
Tajer Shops offers a digital shopping experience supported by curated selections and long-term merchant partnerships, with a growing assortment across key categories. Customers can explore fashion for women, men, and children, seasonal collections including winterwear and loungewear, as well as home, lifestyle essentials, accessories, and everyday necessities.
Tajer Shops blends carefully selected product discovery, authentic brands, and reliable delivery. Developed to simplify the discovery of authentic and dependable products, the platform brings together a thoughtfully selected assortment from homegrown Qatari brands, leading Middle East and North Africa
(MENA) businesses, and select international brands entering the region. Currently consumers are able to shop products and brands close to home from Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, and the UAE and more will be continuously added, in addition to including global market entries such as Brazil. The Tajer Shops app is available to download on both iOS and Android devices.
The launch of Tajer Shops comes shortly after the launch of Mega Deals in April 2025. My Q Advertising, a leading advertising agency in Qatar, introduced Mega Deals, megadeals.qa, an innovative e-commerce platform aiming to transform online shopping in Qatar, offering a unique shopping experience where every purchase comes with an opportunity to win exceptional prizes, including cash, cars, and even gold. The platform makes online purchases more rewarding, bringing more value and convenience to consumers. It also ensures seamless accessibility through both its website and a user-friendly mobile app, which embraces a customer-centric approach, offering secure transactions and responsive support to maximise customer satisfaction. The app is available to download on both iOS and Android devices.
Both Mega Deals and Tajer Shops are fully aligned with Qatar’s regulations and supervised by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT).
Qatar’s e-commerce market
Mega Deals and Tajer Shops enter the e-commerce landscape at a pivotal moment of rapid growth and transformation. Qatar’s e-commerce market continues to expand, reaching an estimated QAR13.54 bn (USD3.72 bn) by 2025 and projected to grow at an annual rate of 8.07% between 2025 and 2029, according to Statista. Driven by rising consumer demand for fast, seamless, and personalised shopping experiences, the country’s digital commerce sector is expected to more than double by 2029. Globally, the e-commerce market is also on a strong upward trajectory, with Renub Research estimating its value to reach QAR173.74 tn (USD47.73) tn by 2030.
Qatar witnessed a total of 55.08 mn transactions valued at QAR16.68 bn through the country's payment system in September 2025, according to data by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB). Pointof-sales constituted 51% of the payment system transactions, followed by e-commerce 25%, Fawran (the instant payment system) at 22%, and Qatar Mobile Payment (QMP) at 2% in the review period. There were 42.43 mn card transactions through point-of-sales – which enables merchants to process payments and log transactions – valued at QAR8.46 bn in September 2025. The e-commerce transaction winessed as many as 10.09 mn transactions valued at QAR4.23 bn in the review period.
Local e-commerce platforms
According to Ipsos, a leading media research agency in the MENA region, 85% of Qatar’s population shops online, highlighting a significant opportunity for local entrepreneurs and businesses to invest in the sector. Data from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) further shows that 34% of consumers shop online for convenience and efficiency. Despite this strong uptake, 50% of shoppers are unable to name a local e-commerce platform, even though local players account for more than 12% of the market share.
Tajer Shops and Mega Deals join a growing list of Qatari e-commerce platforms, including Al Anees Qatar (alaneesqatar.qa), Get It QA (getit.qa), Jazp Qatar (qatar.jazp.com), and Qsales (qsales.qa).
Various entities – from Qatar Post, the country’s national postal service provider, to Jumbo Electronics, a leading home appliances and electronics retailer, and Snoonu, one of Qatar’s trusted super-apps – operate dedicated e-commerce platforms, including qatarpostsouq.com, jumbosouq. com, and snoonu.com. For a comprehensive list of e-commerce platforms, visit the MCIT's Qatar eCommerce Portal at ecommerce.gov.qa/directory
There are also many digital platforms that help shoppers save money by offering promo codes, digital coupons, special offers, and cashback deals on various products and services. These platforms allow users to search for discounts from specific brands, retailers, or categories, making it easier to find the best available prices before making a purchase. Whether online or in-store, these tools provide a convenient way for consumers to reduce spending and get more value out of their purchases.
Qatar has a variety of local coupon and discount websites and apps that help shoppers cut costs on everyday purchases. These platforms typically offer discounts or buy-one-get-one deals at shops, restaurants, spas and beauty centres, hotels, healthcare facilities, entertainment and leisure venues, and more.
QGrabs (qgrabs.com) and Urban Point (urbanpoint.com) are daily and monthly discount websites and apps. The Entertainer (theentertainerme.com) and My Book Qatar (mybookqatar.com) are money-saving buy-one-getone-free platforms and apps, offering thousands of offers that are frequently renewed.
Shopping online not only saves time but also unlocks deeper savings – discounts, free shipping, daily giveaways, and special buy deals. In Qatar, residents frequently use global apps and sites such as Temu, Shein, AliExpress, Alibaba, Trendyol, and Noon. Other well-known platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy are also popular and accessible, though shipping can be expensive.
Places to Shop
For the most reliable information, refer to malls’ social media channels
01 Mall E3 4478 1662 facebook.com
02 Mall A3 4460 7512
03 Mall D4 4029 3974, 7791 4983
21 High st B4 5009 3823 21highst.net
Abu Sidra Mall E2 5511 4425 abusidramall.com
ALHAZM C3 4411 1444, 6664 4558 alhazm.com
Al Khor Mall 4453 3400 alkhormall.com
Al Asmakh Mall (Centrepoint) D3 4428 9141
Al Thumama Mall E4 4041 0000 thumamamall.com
OPENING HOURS UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE, PARKING IS FREE Malls and other shopping centres close for prayers on Friday
– Thu 10 am – 10 pm Fri 1 pm – 11 pm Sat to Thu 8 am – midnight Fri 9 am – midnight
DEPARTMENT STORES & A SELECTION OF SHOPS
Al Sulaiman Jewellery & Watches, Startech Middle East, Toys Valley
Al Abed Roastery, Care n Cure Pharmacy, Saloon Sea Palace, Startech Middle East
Al Jamal Optics, UFC Gym, Wellcare Pharmacy
Galeries Lafayette Doha: 100% Capri, Beauty Hive, Cartier, David Morris, Graff, Joseph, Richard Mille, Van Cleef & Arpels
babyshop, Bath & Body Works, City Lifestyle, Home Box, Le Cheval Jewelry, Lulu Department Store, Splash
Al Jazeera Perfumes, Hadarah Perfumes, Il Bernardo, Little Ones, Razza, Scentsation, Sole Avenue, Style de Vie
Bath & Body Works, City Lifestyle, Claire's, Daiso, Giordano, Mothercare, Mumuso, Nayomi, Payless, Splash
Centrepoint (babyshop, City Lifestyle, Shoemart, Splash), Emax, Homecentre
Beat Fitness Center, Kidsland Trading, Minoli Trading
Lagoona Mall
Mall of Qatar
Novo Cinemas
Farah Qatar
Farah Qatar
Farah Qatar
Cineco
IN BRIEF
A neighbourhood mall in Ain Khaled.
A neighbourhood mall in Al Daayen.
A two-storey mall with skylight roof in New Salata.
A high-end luxury open-air shopping mall in Katara Cultural Village.
A three-level mall in Al Rayyan with over 200 retail and F&B outlets.
Exclusive luxury brands in a fashionable setting.
Over 60 stores open over two levels.
Two levels with underground parking.
Two levels of family entertainment with 300 parking spaces.
MALLS & OTHER SHOPPING CENTRES
City Center Doha C4 4493 3355 citycenterdoha.com
Dar Al Salam Mall E3 4016 3573 facebook.com
Doha Festival City B2 4035 4444 dohafestivalcity.com
Doha Mall E3 4000 3100 dohamall.com
Doha Oasis D4 4410 6262 doha.printemps.com
Doha Souq D3 4041 0000 dohasouq.qa
Ezdan Mall C3 4433 4141 gharrafa.ezdanmall.qa
Ezdan Mall, Al Wakra 4433 4545 wakra.ezdanmall.qa
Gulf Mall C3 4031 0600 gulfmalldoha.com
OPENING HOURS UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE, PARKING IS FREE Malls and other shopping centres close for prayers on Friday
– Wed 10 am – 10 pm Thu 10 am – midnight Fri 1 pm -- midnight Paid parking
•Facilities are subject to change. Check or call ahead.
•Banks in malls open outside normal banking hours. Check or call ahead.
•Most shopping destinations have ample parking and offer valet parking for a varying fee. Car wash services are also available at QAR20+.
•Most shopping destinations have security guards and are equipped with surveillance cameras. Lost and found services are also available.
•In addition to men's and women's bathrooms, there are separate Islamic prayer rooms (musalla) and ablution (wudu) facilities for men and women, often located side by side near the bathroom facilities.
•Changing rooms or facilities are also available either separately or within bathrooms. At malls such as Place Vendôme Qatar and Doha Festival City, a professional accompanying babysitter is available for hire.
The Cinema Palace
Ray's Reef
Novo Cinemas
Bounce Qatar
Museum of Illusions
Qatar Cinema
Fun Day
Cineco 13
Gondolania
Wathnan Fun City
Freestylers Tribe
Mall facilities and services
BRIEF
Two levels of local shops and restaurants.
Over 100 shops across three levels with high-end outlets.
Features a traditional souq, a trampoline park, and many retail shops and dining outlets.
One level mall with beauty, jewellery and clothing kiosks.
Boutique mall with three floors of high-end outlets and luxury brands.
Two levels with a range of high- and middle-range shops.
Italian-themed mall with luxury brand area Via Domo.
First mall with dedicated opening hours for families only.
A luxurious mall in Lusail City with Velero Hotel Doha Lusail.
A mixed-use development in Al Waab for dining, retail, living, working and leisure.
• Some malls such as Place Vendôme Qatar and Doha Festival City have 'Hamali' service, where you can hire an assistant to carry all of your shopping bags.
• Some malls such as Place Vendôme Qatar, Doha Festival City and Mall of Qatar have in-mall taxis to chauffer you around the mall.
• Most shopping destinations are inclusive with accessibility facilities and services such as accessible parking; escalators, elevators, and ramps; fully equipped toilets; elevators with braille buttons; and more. Some malls may provide wheelchairs, if needed.
• A 2015 government directive mandates that all shops must close for 90 minutes around noon on Fridays for prayers, typically between 11 am and 1 pm, depending on the call to prayer.
• The law prohibits smoking in malls and all other indoor public places. Hefty fines may be applied.
Other Places to Shop
In addition to malls, shoppers have plenty of choices – everything from traditional souqs to lively commercial complexes, wholesale markets and vibrant commercial streets.
Al Furjan and Azzab Markets
Al Furjan, plural of Fereej, meaning neighbourhood, are markets that house provision stores, bakeries, butcheries, pharmacies, ATM kiosks, laundries, barber shops, eateries, and grocery stores and/or supermarkets, among other facilities. Al Furjan and Azzab Markets aim to have shopping complexes in each zone and can be found in areas such as Al Qutaifiya, Rawdat Al Hamama, Rawdat Aqdim, Al Thumama, Al Mearad, Umm Al Seneem, Al Ebb and Jarayan Nujaimah. The aim is to have more than 40 Al Furjan and Azzab Markets in designated areas with more than 600 shops, covering 28 basic commercial shops, meeting the living requirements of inhabitants in the neighbourhood. qdb.qa
Central Markets (Aswaq)
Aswaq for Food Facilities Management, a subsidiary of Hassad Foods, manages and operates Qatar's three central markets in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The central markets open Thursday to Saturday 7 am – 7 pm, between October and June. 4407 1111, aswaq.com.qa
Previously known as the Wholesale Market in Mesaimeer, Al Sailiya Central Market (Aswaq Sailiya) E1 opened in 2020, covering over 78,000 sq m The central market is the largest in Qatar, and is divided into several connected and air-conditioned sections for fish, poultry, fruits and vegetables, and a slaughterhouse for camels, cows and sheep. The market has nine air-cooled storage areas. It includes a traditional market with 52 shops, in addition to the existing 102 shops in the retail market and the 50 shops in the wholesale market. Moreover, there are imported products at the over 8,000 sq m auction hall. Upon completion of the auction, the products are loaded either out
of the market, or to the wholesale market or aircooled storage.
Previously in Mesaimeer as part of the Wholesale Market, the Omani Souq has relocated to Al Sailiya Central Market. It offers a large variety of goods, including desert truffles, spices, nuts, perfumes, gardenware, plants, and incense burners. aswaq.com.qa/aswaq-sailiya
Al Wakra Central Market (Aswaq Wakra) F5 opened in 2020, covering approximately 230,000 sq m The facility includes a livestock central market with an automated slaughterhouse, cattle barns, shops, hypermarket, traditional and vegetable markets, shops and administrative buildings. The 14,000 sq m automated slaughterhouse has the capacity to handle 9,000 livestock a day. There are more than 600 livestock barns. The public can buy animals from the barns and transfer them to the slaughterhouse.
The retail, wholesale and hypermarket sections are air-conditioned. The market includes 102 shops to support the market’s main activity such as fodder, grain, and veterinary supplies. The market also includes fodder storage space of more than 5,200 sq m. Additionally, the retail section includes 76 shops and a traditional market that sells vegetables and fruits, dried fruit, honey and dates. aswaq.com.qa/aswaq-wakra
Spanning over 70,000 sq m, Umm Salal Central Market (Aswaq Umm Salal) connects directly to the main ports in Al Wakra, Al Ruwais, Al Khor and Doha, supplying nearly 80% of the fish to the market. It includes 62 fish shops, and an auction yard of 2,100 sq m, as well as a fish cleaning section, visitors waiting area, and an ice factory to meet the needs of traders. The market is an integrated marketing platform for all basic commodities, which contributes to achieving food security.
The central market offers all basic commodities such as meat, fish and vegetables to serve the needs of all – traders, producers and consumers. In addition, the market includes a private slaughterhouse with a production capacity of up to 1,000 heads per day (under the management of Widam Food), in addition to livestock barns, vegetables and fruits shops, multi-service shops, cold stores, a supermarket, a mosque, and a number of administrative offices. aswaq.com.qa/aswaq-umm-salal
Al Mazrouah Yard, one of the country's most popular seasonal farmers market, has been relocated in Aswaq Umm Salal since 2021, extending over 1,800 sq m and includes 44 counters dedicated to selling local produce.
Al Sailiya Central Market
There are several seasonal farmers markets, also known as yards, across Qatar, including Al Khor and Al Thakhira, Al Wakra, Al Sheehaniya and Al Shamal, which provide over 140 local farmers with the opportunity to sell produce directly to customers. Fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs and plants can be bought in bulk. Opening hours: Only during the winter season (October – March); Thursday to Saturday 7 am – 3 pm.
Commercial Shopping Streets
In districts around the country, there are several shopping streets catering to every need with everyday essentials such as pharmacies, supermarkets, clothing stores, laundries, exchange shops, tailors, photography studios, toy stores, and car accessories and repair services. These shopping streets are older and more traditional, similar to souqs, where bargaining and discounted offers can be applied. Most, if not all, were established long before the popular malls of today. The most popular shopping streets include Al Aziziya, Al Mansoura, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed, Al Sadd, Al Shafi, Najma, Salwa Road, Suhaim Bin Hamad and Old Airport.
Their main convenience lies in accessibility – you can often park right in front of your chosen shop and walk straight in. On-street parking is common, but can often be challenging as many of these streets experience heavy congestion. Some streets have undergone refurbishment to improve traffic flow and allow for more parking spaces.
Souqs
In addition to the popular Souq Waqif and Al Wakrah Old Souq (see Souq Waqif and Al Wakrah Old Souq in the Discovering Qatar section), there are various traditional souqs or commercial complexes or local markets (so-called souqs) scattered around town. When people in Qatar talk of the 'souqs', they usually refer to the city’s oldest market area, in the heart of the city near the old Amiri Diwan.
Souqs range from the traditional-style Souq Waqif, which still retains the atmosphere and spirit of the old bazaar, to the more modern air-conditioned, marble-clad complexes. When shopping in the souqs, you have the opportunity to bargain. You have cheaper imports, high-end designer items and just about everything else, including clothing and home accessories to kitchenware, souvenirs and unique gifts. Kitchenware shops stock everything from huge cooking pots to dainty glasses, cutlery and table ornaments. Luggage, tools, general hardware, DIY and gardening equipment are also available. Clothing includes a wide range of inexpensive clothes, casual wear and shoes.
Souq Waqif's gold souq is located on the southern side of Souq Waqif and includes many of the best jewellers who are skilled in making traditional Qatari jewellery with distinctive touches that combine heritage and modernity.
First in the downtown souq area is the busy Souq Faleh D4 shopping centre, which houses several abaya, clothing and body accessories stores.
Adjacent to Souq Faleh is Souq Al Asiery D4, which is known as the 'Escalator Souq' as it was the first one in Doha to have an escalator. It has a massive selection of fabrics available at prices to suit all. Other outlets include clothing, shoes, perfume and accessories.
Connected to Souq Al Asiery is Souq Al Dira D4, your one-stop shop for upmarket textiles. The building has huge arches, lantern-style lights and stained-glass windows and can be found right behind Souq Al Asiery. High-quality beaded fabrics, heavy lace and 'designer' fabrics are all on sale. The souq also has shoes, perfume and accessory stores, and cloakroom facilities. Many Indian and Filipino eateries can be found there.
Right behind Souq Al Asiery and Souq Al Dira is Central Souq (Souq Al Madina) D4, which is a one-stop destination for embroideries, decorating fabric or other materials for dressmaking, as well as custom tailored abayas and jalabiyas.
At the end of Al Ahmed Street is Souq Al Jabor (Al Jabor Center) D4. Stores along the outside as well as inside the block offer a good selection of footwear, clothes and a wide range of other products.
One of the oldest markets in the country, Souq Al Haraj D4 in Al Najma is a local flea market where secondhand furniture is repaired, upcycled, sold and/or traded. It is one of the main shopping destinations for furniture and household appliances, whether old or new.
Next to Barwa Village in Al Wakra is the up-andcoming commercial development and second Souq Al Haraj E4 souqalharaj.qa, supported by Manateq.
The 84,000 sq m complex consists of 552 units: 22 showrooms; 243 shops; 51 kiosks; 211 residential apartments with one and two bedrooms; and 25 offices. souqalharaj.qa
Souq Al Ali C3 in Al Gharrafa houses textile, tailoring and abaya stores, and a few pet shops. It's also a popular destination for shoe repair and carpentry stores. There's a KFC, Yellow Cab and other eateries in the souq as well.
The old yet urban Thursday and Friday Souq E3 is located on Wholesale Market Street in the Bu Hamour and Mesaimeer districts. The shopping centre is a well-known destination for abayas, jalabiyas, affordable clothes and other garments as well as toys. There are also a few spice, dates and honey shops.
In addition to souqs, there are many low-budget shopping centres in Qatar with branches across
There are several jewellery shops in the gold souq area D4 near Souq Waqif. In addition to buying and/or selling gold, most jewellers will repair and replace jewellery, providing a receipt.
Designs Cater for Western and Eastern tastes and are of local and international manufacture.
Traditional bridal jewellery are commonly displayed in shop windows. These massive and elaborate gold sets often include mirtash (chestlength decorated chains), bracelets, gub (small gold caps) and hair ornaments, and solid belts.
Personalised name pendants can be made with your name written in English and/or Arabic, as a keepsake or gift.
Coins, ingots and gems of various weights are available at most jewellers.
High-quality second-hand watches on sale at specialist shops include brands such as Rolex and Cartier.
Buying gold is safe as all gold sold in Qatar is tested and hallmarked in the country, so quality is guaranteed. Most of the gold is 18 and 22
the country where you can buy clothing, home accessories and kitchen appliances at affordable prices such as Al Rawnaq, Ansar Gallery (A&H), Dragon Mart and Ramez. See Useful Numbers in this section.
Shopping hours at the souqs are usually 10 am –1 pm and 4 pm – 7 pm (Souq Waqif has longer opening hours). A map of the central souqs is in Souq Waqif in the Discovering Qatar section.
Parking Most souqs have limited paid public parking, so public transport is recommended. The Doha Metro serves Souq Waqif via the Gold Line, just walking distance from the souq area, which includes Souq Waqif, Souq Al Asiery, Souq Al Dira, Souq Al Madina, Souq Al Jabor and the gold souqs.
Payment Most shops accept debit or credit card. However, some shops accept cash only. ATMs are avaliable but it's best to carry cash at all times.
carat. Some modern and traditional jewellery items have artificial stones and this is reflected in the price. You can try anything on. At times, salesmen bring pieces from nearby shops if they don’t have what you are looking for.
Selling gold You will need the purchase receipt when selling your jewellery, and you will only receive the value of the weight of the metal or precious stones excluding the workmanship. The Ministry of Interior (MOI) lists procedures for obtaining the mandatory no-objection certificate (NOC) from the police to sell gold. A fee of QAR10 has to be paid through a debit/ credit card to get the NOC. Other requirements are necessary such as bringing the gold for inspection, producing bills for the gold, and bringing the residence permit (RP) and passport of the owner or seller. The gold should belong to first or second degree relatives. The service is provided by the Gold Sales Office in Souq Waqif and security departments across the country.
Invoice Many jewellery shops issue invoices based on the format prescribed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), which was introduced in 2016 to protect consumers' interests, and offers customers a detailed sales invoice. It shows particulars such as unit price without processors, price of workmanship, purity degree, and trademark. Other details include information about the piece of jewellery like the total price, carat, gram, number, description, item code, the shop’s stamp, seller’s name and signature, shop data, invoice number, customer name and customer’s RP/QID number
The Gold Souq
SOUQ AREA
Underground walkway between Msheireb and Souq Waqif Underground walkway between Mosque Car park and Souq Waqif
