Dubai: A festive air is beginning to grip city markets as shopping for Eid Al Fitr gets into full swing — with traders saying the economic situation is picking up.
From clothing, accessories and jewellery to shoes and gift items — a heavy rush of customers can be seen in shops in Bur Dubai and Satwa, especially after iftar.
"I have just started buying, there is lots of shopping to do — clothes, footwear. I think I am already late as I wanted to get new clothes stitched but the waiting time is long as there is [a] heavy rush with the tailors. I have now decided to buy ready made clothes," said Nasreen Ahmad, who was shopping in Meena Bazaar.
Shop owners said they are happy and busy as the mood is quite upbeat. "The economic situation seems to be much better than last year and customers are buying more. Due to a heavy rush with tailors, most of our customers who buy material from us also want us to stitch their clothes," said Rahul Makwana, who has a shop selling Indian and Pakistani suits and ethnic wear in Meena Bazaar.
Better scenario
"We have an entirely new collection of Pakistani suits this time as the demand is high. During the festive season, most people want to go in for suits with heavy embroidery and work," he added.
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The scenario this year looks better than last year, said shop owners. "It looks better this time. Our regular waiting time is four to five days to deliver a garment but due to [the] heavy rush, it has increased by two days. With Eid getting closer, the rush is increasing," said Gurmeet Singh, from an abaya stitching shop in Bur Dubai.
The demand for jewellery and accessories too is high. "Even though gold price is sky rocketing, I will be buying some jewellery for my wife. The festival comes only once a year and shopping is part of the celebration," said Owais Ahmad, from India.
Shop owners said customer turnout is continuing to increase and will peak in the coming days.
