In the Essence of the Arabian Doha

It lies right in the heart of Doha. It bursts with the traditional habits of simplicity. It is painted with the past images of the old generations’ lifestyle. It is "Shari’ Al-Kahraba" (Electricity Street). One of the most precious in Doha; this small, packed souq acts as a reservoir for the intrinsic traditions of Doha, as the street is framed with shops and outlet that serve as the souq’s spirit. What really captures your eyes is the fast and animated rhythm of the souq. There is barely a space to step your foot as everyone gallops to serve their customers, and the scene even gets more mesmerizing as it embraces the essence of the holy month of Ramadan.

When Ramadan knocks on the doors of Doha, the souq opens its doors for the fasting people. This place, like no other, assembles many outlets that fill the joyful atmosphere with the luscious smell of the baked qatayef- Ramadan’s favorable sweets- and the customary Ramadan's "Fawanees" (Lanterns) illuming the night sky of Doha. Throughout the holy month, and especially in the evenings, very long queues of people block the way on the pavement, as they anticipate the qatayef, and they pass by the shop’s neighbor to fuel themselves with some fresh, crunchy nuts and white sweet cheese for the stuffing of the qatayef. The souq spreads joy and blessing in the atmosphere as people get together under one roof. I just love going to there, as I have been going there since my childhood. There were no malls to amuse us then, nor cafes to hangout at, but there was the Electricity Street where you find all sorts of things.

However, in the present time, it’s agonizing to know that they’ve taken down half of it and they’ll soon take down the other half. The souq is very precious to me as it mirrors the nature of the country and reflects in its heart. I never forget the days when my mother used to bargain with the sellers over clothes, when we used to buy fresh pickles from Barradat Saida, and Humous and Phoul from Beirut Restaurant. All these moment. (N.S.)