A wave of patriotic pride has gripped the kingdom’s Old Manama Suq as Bahrain gears up for the celebration of its National Day and the anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad’s accession to the throne and the accompanying national events.
Shoppers have been snapping up everything from commemorative flags to baseball caps as landmarks and official buildings adorn the red and white colours of the country.
“This year we are seeing more people, including tourists, visit the suq, which helps support the businesses,” said Mahmood Al Namlaiti from the Manama Suq Committee, which comprises of various traders. “The suq is decorated with red and white flags, banners, bunting, scarves and special attire for the young and old to celebrate this national occasion.”
He added special activities and competitions will be held by many of the traders for the thousands of visitors.
“Special discounts are being offered, especially from tailoring stores to attract shoppers,” he revealed.
He added there was a huge demand across Bahrain for red and white rolls of material mostly imported from China. The flags are also extremely popular priced between BD1 and BD5 depending on size.
Mr Al Namlaiti added special abayas featuring the Bahraini crest, while stickers and scarves bearing images of the country’s leaders and other items were also in huge demand.
“This is a day of national unity and visitors will see the Bahrain flag hoisted in every shop in the suq to welcome all.”
Flags of all sizes are already flying high throughout the suq creating a festive atmosphere, while a vibrant selection of traditional dresses has been put on display for shoppers with prices ranging from between BD15 to BD40.
Meanwhile, shopkeepers at the suq said business appears to have been slower in recent days but confidently predicted it may be a case of a lull before the storm.
“We are expecting it to pick up,” trader Biju Kalathil told the GDN, noting a demand for red and white LED lighting as shoppers look for a modern decorating touch to brighten up their homes and communities.
Suq jeweller Muzzafar Hussain said he was ‘excited to welcome customers during the two public holidays’.
Shopkeepers are expecting business to boom during Hawa Al Manama, which will be held at the Old Manama Suq from December 25 to January 15.
The old market streets, squares, malls and shops will come alive with performances that celebrate different eras in the country. The second edition of the cultural event is part of the Celebrate Bahrain season and will feature a wide range of interactive experiences inspired by life in Bahrain between the 1960s and 1990s.
From traditional games and carnivals to cultural showcases and shopping experiences at Al Zeinah Plaza, Yateem Centre, traditional shops and antique stores, the event aims to bring together past and present.
Visitors can look forward to special performances, historical exhibitions and immersive experiences that recreate the sights, sounds and details of daily life in the suq across the decades.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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