Souq Waqif is a historic marketplace that embodies the nation's rich cultural heritage. Established in the 19th century, this traditional Middle Eastern market played a pivotal role as a trading hub for various goods, connecting merchants from across the Gulf region.
In 2006, a restoration project preserved its historic charm while modernizing the infrastructure, resulting in a market that blends Qatari tradition with modern conveniences.
In this article, we will talk about must-see spots in this historical marketplace.
Spot 1: The Camel Pen
Meet the Arabic camels, the rock stars of the desert with their charismatic single hump, where they store up to 80 pounds of fat – a lifesaver in arid terrains. Camels have developed cool tricks for tough desert conditions: long legs protect them from hot sand, double-rowed lashes save their eyes from sand storms and their incredible humps allow them to survive without food and water up to 3 months at a time!
For nomadic tribes of the desert camels were not just life stock - they were a true source of life. Camels would transport nomads from one place to another, would supply them with milk, meat and even a home, as nomadic tribes would use camels' fur for weaving their homes.
Today camels remain to be an important part of Qatari culture. Camel racing remains to be one of the most favorite local sports.
For nomadic tribes of the desert camels were not just life stock - they were a true source of life. Camels would transport nomads from one place to another, would supply them with milk, meat and even a home, as nomadic tribes would use camels' fur for weaving their homes.
Today camels remain to be an important part of Qatari culture. Camel racing remains to be one of the most favorite local sports.
Spot 2: Falcon Souq
Falconry is a centuries-old tradition, it is the art of training and hunting with falcons or hawks. This exhilarating pursuit embodies a unique bond between human and raptor. Falconers, as practitioners are called, form deep connections with their feathered companions through mutual trust and respect.
You can witness this centuries-old trade in Souq Wakif. Protip: the falconry equipment can become your one-of-a-kind souvenir from Qatar.
You can witness this centuries-old trade in Souq Wakif. Protip: the falconry equipment can become your one-of-a-kind souvenir from Qatar.
Spot 3: The Spice Market
Exploring Arabic cuisine is a journey through a fragrant, flavorful world, and at the heart of it are the aromatic Arabic spices. These spices are the alchemists that transform ordinary dishes into culinary treasures.
From the fiery kick of sumac to the earthy warmth of cumin and the sweet embrace of cardamom, each spice tells a story. Traditional Qatari dishes like machboos (meat with rice) or saloona (meat stew) owe their unforgettable flavors to these aromatic wonders. If you are ready to bring this colorful world of taste home, there is no better place to shop for local spices.
From the fiery kick of sumac to the earthy warmth of cumin and the sweet embrace of cardamom, each spice tells a story. Traditional Qatari dishes like machboos (meat with rice) or saloona (meat stew) owe their unforgettable flavors to these aromatic wonders. If you are ready to bring this colorful world of taste home, there is no better place to shop for local spices.
Spot 4: The Old Pearl Diver's Shop
This is no regular pearls shop - it is a true relic of the nation's heritage. Before the discovery of oil, Qatar's economy revolved around the treasure of the sea: pearls. The host of this unique shop is no ordinary merchant but a true pearl diver, who once ventured into the depths of the Persian Gulf at the dawn of the 20th century, in search of these luminous gems.
The allure of natural pearls, a symbol of wealth and luxury, was the backbone of Qatar's economy until the invention of cultivated pearls. This innovation triggered the collapse of the pearl diving industry, forever changing the way of life for these skilled seafarers. Today, this shop stands as a testament to a bygone era, where the old pearl diver preserves the memories and traditions of a once-thriving pearling culture, sharing its fascinating history with those who step through its doors.
The allure of natural pearls, a symbol of wealth and luxury, was the backbone of Qatar's economy until the invention of cultivated pearls. This innovation triggered the collapse of the pearl diving industry, forever changing the way of life for these skilled seafarers. Today, this shop stands as a testament to a bygone era, where the old pearl diver preserves the memories and traditions of a once-thriving pearling culture, sharing its fascinating history with those who step through its doors.
The full digital audio tour around Souq Wakif with navigation to each stop is available in Guide my World app. Download now for free.
