Just one year since inception, neighborhood markets proving to be big hit

Qatar is a land choke filled with mega shopping malls. But with mega shopping malls come mega parking nightmares. As a result, at least a section of people tend to stay away from them.

Al Furjan souqs, or friendly neighborhood markets, were established keeping these people in mind. And just a year after it began, it has proved to be a big hit.

Many residents are now finding these outlets as convenient and easily accessible shopping options, Gulf Times reported.

This comes as good news for shop operators, who initially complained that there was only a low turnout of customers. Buoyed by the growing footfall, the shop owners are now confident of a bright future and return on investment.

Al Furjan markets can be found in places like Al Qutaifiya, Rawdat Al Hamama, Rawdat Aqdim, Al Thumama, Al Mearad, Umm Al Seneem, Hazm Al Markhiya, Al Aab and Jarayan Nujaimah.

“We offer special services to our customers, such as delivery of goods, irrespective of the amount, free of charge. We also provide the option of delayed payment, whereby they can pay on a monthly or weekly basis. Besides, we’re keen to maintain good, friendly relations with our customers," said a shopkeeper at the Al Furjan market in Al Thumama.

Families living in Al Thumama and other areas stressed that shops at the nearby Al Furjan markets provided them with much-needed services, helping them save time and effort.

This is why they are okay with the slightly higher prices charged for some services at these markets, compared to major shopping complexes.

"I don’t mind paying a few riyals more when I get good service without having to drive a long distance and wait in a queue to pay," said a resident of Ain Khalid.

Shops at Al Furjan market include those selling clothes and accessories, meat and fish, and vegetable and fruits, as well as beauty salons, barbershops, groceries, small eateries/cafeterias and laundries.

The Al Furjan project aims to have 44 markets in designated areas with a total of 645 shops covering 28 basic commercial activities.

Picture Courtesy: Omar Chatriwala/QL Flickr Group