Aside from visitors, many shops are also expecting a boost in sales from residents making the most of the short holiday vacation to buy souvenirs for their families in their respective countries.
David, a tourist from the UK, told Gulf Times Saturday that he admires the historical setting of the marketplace, while his wife, Susan, is attracted to the Bedouin-inspired apparel displayed in many shops at the Souq.
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Souq Waqif is a popular destination for selfies for both tourists and residents
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A couple browse through souvenir items at Souq Waqif
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Small souvenir giveaways are very popular among tourists
“This place evokes an atmosphere reminiscent of Qatar's traditional market, and I admire the efforts put into restoring and maintaining the area’s history. A visit to this tourist destination is a much-needed break from the ordinary, day-to-day grind,” he said.
The centuries-old Souq Waqif is also one of the popular spots to take memorable selfies.
Dinna, a Doha resident, said her selfies at the Souq are a welcome addition to her “photo keepsakes” collected from her travels.
Also, many Doha-based photography groups also frequent Souq Waqif to capture the area’s traditional and unique visual vibe. “Aside from the Souq's rustic personality, the interaction between vendor and customer, as well as the people’s reception to the place makes a good subject for photography,” said lensman Rico Castro.
Aside from the retail business, many restaurants are also bracing for the influx of many customers celebrating the Eid holidays. A restaurant staff said most establishments will be operating on extended hours to cater to visitors, which are a diverse mix of tourists and families.
The staff said the Eid festivities counters the lull typically experienced in the summer months. She also noted that the easing of visa regulations played a significant role in stimulating tourism activities in Qatar, especially in the summer.
Many retail and F&B-related establishments will also benefit from the Eid-related festivities prepared as part of the Qatar National Tourism Council's (QNTC) 'Summer in Qatar' 2019 programme.
The QNTC said in an earlier statement that Souq Waqif, including Souq Al Wakrah, will host a festival featuring cultural performances, musical acts, and family shows for the five days of Eid al-Adha, drawing thousands of visitors, mostly families and children, during the holiday season.
"With all these activities lined up for the next coming days, we are expecting to be busy with the large customer footfall at the Souq,” the restaurant staff pointed out.