Qatar’s retail sector is witnessing a significant seasonal boost as families prepare for summer holidays, driving strong demand for travel accessories, beach equipment, camping supplies, sun protection products, and outdoor leisure items.
Accordingly, many shopping malls and hypermarkets across the country have launched extensive promotional campaigns while dedicating prime retail space to seasonal merchandise.
The surge in consumer spending coincides with the conclusion of the academic year and the start of the summer vacation, when many residents often travel abroad or organise local leisure activities.
Many retailers have established dedicated summer sections near the entrances of major shopping centres to provide customers with convenient access to travel and beach essentials.
These sections feature a wide range of products including folding chairs, portable tables, coolers, beach accessories, swimwear, travel organisers, insulated bags, and camping equipment.
Plastic beach chairs are priced between QR50 and QR100, while compact folding chairs start at around QR40.
Folding tables made from wood, plastic, or metal generally range between QR90 and QR250, depending on their size and material.
Portable coolers, which have become increasingly popular for beach outings and camping trips, are available from approximately QR120-300 or other prices, with larger wheeled models attracting growing interest among families seeking greater convenience during outdoor activities.
Health and beauty departments have also experienced a noticeable increase in customer turnout, seeking products designed to protect against extreme summer temperatures, which frequently exceed 40C during the daytime. Sunscreen products are among the fastest-selling seasonal items, with prices starting from around QR30, while tanning oils retail from around QR80.
Retail staff report that customers increasingly prefer broad-spectrum, high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreens that provide extended protection during swimming, beach visits, and camping.
However, it is noted that many consumers are making more informed purchasing decisions by comparing prices and promotions through retailers’ websites, mobile applications, and online marketplaces before making purchases.
The rapid growth of e-commerce and home delivery services has enhanced price transparency while intensifying competition among retailers. This shift toward digital shopping is supported by broader spending trends.
According to Visa’s Retail Spend Monitor, premium Visa cardholders in Qatar increased their retail spending by around 19% year-on-year during the 2025 summer travel season, while online spending rose by 20% and outbound travel expenditure increased by 27%.
In anticipation of the peak travel period, retailers also expect strong demand for luggage, backpacks, travel accessories, reusable water bottles, portable electronic devices, and children’s travel products. Many stores have already introduced seasonal promotions and discounts on suitcases of various sizes as families finalise their holiday plans.
Besides, retailers have remained optimistic that consumer demand will continue throughout July and August, supported by school holidays, outbound travel, domestic tourism, and competitive promotional campaigns.
