Eid al-Adha festivities spread joy across Qatar

Both indoor and outdoor spaces in Doha welcomed a large number of residents and visitors Sunday, marking the first day of Eid al-Adha.

Individuals, families, and groups of friends flocked to various locations, seeking a respite from their busy schedules of the past weeks.

The Doha Corniche emerged as a favoured destination, drawing a diverse crowd, including bachelors. Many engaged in picnics or leisurely walks along the scenic waterfront, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere from afternoon until late evening. The Corniche, known for its picturesque views, provided an ideal backdrop for these leisurely activities.

A popular attraction during the Eid holidays, dhow rides offered visitors a blend of fun and relaxation. "We hope to attract more customers in the coming days throughout the Eid holidays," said a dhow operator, underscoring the growing popularity of this traditional boat ride even in the summer heat.

Families took advantage of the holiday by visiting multiple outdoor destinations, such as the Old Doha Port, before heading to malls for shopping and dining.

The Old Doha Port, in particular, has become a cultural hub, featuring performances by a maritime traditional band at AlBandar, opposite the fish market (Chabrat Al Mina). These performances, celebrating Qatar’s rich maritime heritage, will run daily until June 19, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.

The port also caters to water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, encouraging more people to participate in water sports.

Retail outlets and restaurants in malls across Doha have experienced a surge in customers during the Eid holidays.

An employee at a sports shop reported high demand for indoor sports equipment and accessories. "More people now want to stay fit and healthy during the summer. We've seen an increase in sales of our treadmills and cross trainers in recent days, and we expect this trend to continue in the coming weeks," he noted.

Similarly, a representative from a popular restaurant chain , on the heightened activity during this festive period, said: "We become extremely busy due to the influx of customers during Eid. "

He said the holiday also attracts visitors from neighbouring GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, who favour dining in Doha’s diverse culinary establishments.