For many years, Bedouins came to Souq Waqif to trade their animals and wool for essentials, food and other items. Recently, Souq Waqif was refurbished and extended and is now a wonderful place to shop, relax with a coffee and experience the traditional side of Qatar.
Souq Waqif is a great place to stroll around through the alleys, interact with shop owners for traditional Qatari clothing, incense, perfumes and spices. The 'Hamali' porters with wheelbarrows, still help shoppers carry their shopping through the alleys, and officers at the local police station still dress in 1940's uniform. During the morning hours you'll also see mounted police in traditional clothing.
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