The food truck industry in Qatar, which has witnessed a steady growth in the past years, has become a regular fixture in many events being staged in the country, adding colour and vibrancy to the outdoor scene.
Despite warmer temperatures, food trucks of many types are peppered across a variety of outdoor venues in Doha, attracting new customers and loyal patrons, who are into either burgers or pastries, and other food and beverage variants.
“Whether it is a small or major event happening in Qatar, you can definitely see a food truck somewhere in the premises. Since there is a fan zone inside the Khalifa International Stadium, which is broadcasting the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, we are expecting a rush of customers after the games,” said a staff of one of the several food trucks deployed outside the stadium.
Another staff said, “Aside from the Qatar International Food Festival held earlier this year, this is the first time I have experienced working alongside several other food trucks in an outdoor venue.”
Earlier, Aspire Zone Foundation had announced that football fans in Qatar can catch the World Cup games at the ‘Fan Zone’ inside the Khalifa International Stadium. The 'Fan Zone' can accommodate more than 2,500 people and 2,000 vehicles, and is equipped with different amenities, including a giant LED screen and children’s play area.
Not only do food trucks add new flavour or “local versions” of many international food brands, but more importantly, the emergence of these small businesses contributes to the development of the national economy.
Speaking to Gulf Times previously, QDB executive director of Advisory Services and Incubation Ibrahim al-Mannai noted that Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem today is a stark contrast to how it was five years ago.
With agencies like QDB and initiatives from the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, al-Mannai said the micro, small and medium-sized business sector in Qatar is “more supportive” and “entrepreneur-friendly.”
Customers place their orders at one of the food trucks outside the Khalifa International Stadium. PICTURE: Nasar TK
