As Eid Al Fitr approaches, markets and shopping malls are seeing a noticeable increase in activity as shoppers prepare for the holidays, buying clothing, gifts, sweets, and food.
Shopping has been proceeding at a normal pace across the country despite the current circumstances, supported by the availability of goods, stable market conditions, and intensified monitoring efforts to ensure products remain accessible to consumers.
Families are traditionally keen to prepare for the festive occasion, which is closely tied to long-standing social customs. Demand typically rises for clothing, perfume, and gifts, while stores selling sweets and nuts experience particularly strong sales during the days leading up to the holidays. Grocery stores are also seeing higher demand for seasonal items such as dates, chocolates, and traditional sweets associated with Eid celebrations.
Several shoppers said that retail activity remains steady and that essential goods are widely available. They noted that both food and non-food products are available in sufficient quantities, which helps reassure consumers as they complete their holiday preparations.
Shoppers also pointed to the wide range of options available in the market and the promotional offers launched by many retailers during this period. These discounts provide consumers with opportunities to purchase necessities at reasonable prices, particularly as demand tends to rise in the final days of the holy month.
Besides, major shopping malls have continued to roll out seasonal promotions to attract customers during Eid. Discounts cover a variety of products, including clothing, footwear, perfumes, accessories, and food items.
Retailers say sales have begun to improve as the holiday draws closer. According to several shop owners, consumers often prefer to finalise their purchases in the final days of the holy month of Ramadan, leading to increased footfall in markets and malls. Competitive promotional campaigns among stores are also contributing to stronger retail activity.
In the meantime, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has confirmed that local markets are well stocked with consumer goods across various outlets, and that supply chains are operating normally thanks to ongoing coordination among authorities, suppliers, and retailers, helping maintain market stability and ensure the continuous availability of essential products.
Officials added that the ministry is closely monitoring the market movement and stock levels to ensure readiness for the surge in demand ahead of Eid, while verifying that sufficient quantities of goods are available in stores and warehouses.
Further, the concerned authorities have stepped up inspection campaigns across retail outlets nationwide to ensure clear price displays in stores and compliance with market regulations. Authorities are also monitoring for violations such as commercial fraud or price manipulation.
Alongside traditional shopping, online retail continues to serve as an alternative option for many consumers. Numerous retailers now offer online purchasing with home delivery services, giving shoppers greater flexibility to choose when and how to buy their holiday necessities.