Aside from being a showpiece of traditional architecture, handicrafts and folk art, Souq Waqif is also a fascinating shopping destination where you’ll find an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary items from various neighbouring countries. Arabic garments for men and women, spices sold in bulk, handicrafts and souvenirs that are just a bit more different than the ones you’ll find in regular malls, these things and more await you in Doha’s most popular culture spot.
Here are a few interesting things Marhaba Information Guide found in Souq Waqif
Magic Lipstick
This set of magical lipstick comes in various colours but whichever colour lipstick you decide to purchase, the colour turns to red once you put it on your lips. The sellers at the shop call it ‘Al Rouge al Zahri’, meaning the red lipstick. You can find it at any of the cosmetic shops inside the alleys of Souq Waqif.
Coffee Cones
Coffee in biscuit cone, anyone? This is a recent creation in the local markets and made specifically for Arabian coffee. The Coffee Cone is a cone made of biscuit on the outside and chocolate on the inside. Just pour your coffee into the cone, and eat the cup after you’ve finished the coffee! Quite popular, you can find the Coffee Cone at any candy or sweets shop in Souq Waqif.
Saffron Cotton Candy
If you love cotton candy and are looking for something a bit different from the pink and blue variety, you should definitely try this – saffron-flavoured yellow cotton candy. This unique treat, originally from Iran, can be found at any candy shops within Souq Waqif. There’s also a white cotton candy in vanilla flavour.
Colour Bubble Pencil
Another unusual find as these pencils actually turns into bubble gums! If you’re tired of your children biting their coloured pencils, give them these edible ones. It comes in red, green and blue colours and can be found in most candy shops in Souq Waqif.
Mega Lollypop
Here’s a great gift for someone who loves lollypops. This Mega-Lollypop – the size of a human head – is filled with regular-sized lollypops in various flavours. You can find the Mega-Lollypop at any candy shop in Souq Waqif.
Henna Tattoo and Henna Sticker Stencils
Here’s another option if you want to get a henna tattoo but dread going to the salon – get one from Souq Waqif!
Buy a henna sticker stencil from any of the shops that sell it in Souq Waqif. At home, select the area of the skin where the tattoo will be applied. Cleanse the area thoroughly with soap and water, and dry the area completely afterwards. Place the stencil on the selected area of skin. Fill the open areas of the stencil with the henna. Leave to dry for up to one hour. Remove the sticker once the henna is dry. And ta dah – do it yourself henna!
Souvenirs
Found anywhere in Souq Waqif are these colourful ceramics which will surely stand out as gifts and souvenirs! Traditional Arabic coffee pots (dallah), as well as brass-studded wooden chests in many sizes, are also quite common. Bedouin weaving, traditional floor cushions, kelims and carpets as well as colourful baskets will surely catch your eyes. Silver jewellery, prayer beads and traditional gypsum carvings also make attractive mementoes.
Found anything interesting in Souq Waqif that’s not yet on our list? Share it in the comment box below.
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