Dh8m renovation gives Deira old souq new tiles

Dubai Municipality has renovated the old souq in Deira at a cost of Dh8 million. Mohammed Ahmed Al Zarooni, Head of the Project Construction Section at the General Project Department, said pavements were covered with interlock tiles.

"Some 8,998 square metres were covered with interlock tiles," he said. The roof of the souq, which has been reinforced with a material called "sandwich panel" to meet weather conditions, also has a heat insulation. The paint is fire resistant.

Al Zarooni added that a new sewage and lighting system have been installed. "The market is now ready to meet the increasing rush. The renovation is part of Dubai Municipality's plan to revamp old markets in the emirate."

The souq, which is located in the heart of Dubai, is one of the oldest markets in the country and a trading hub. A large number of visitors flock there daily.

Ameen Khan, owner of Al Ahlaam Trading at the souq, said: "During summer, the number of tourists used to drop because of the heat. But now that it has been covered, we expect more people."

Raji, a salesman at Qurdoba toy shop, agreed with Khan: "The souq is a favourite with tourists. The municipality should have renovated the market a long time ago. One can find all kind of goods here, and the prices are good."

Maroushka, a Russian woman who lives in Dubai, said she likes the market because it is a picture from the past. "I find everything I need and that's why I like shopping here. Prices are reasonable too. The souq has become tidy and neat. Shopping in summer will now be a pleasure."

Mona and her daughter, who are from Egypt, come from Sharjah because they find everything at the souq at reasonable prices.