Retail giant LuLu Hypermarket has launched the “Qatari Products: Our First Choice” festival at its D-Ring Road outlet, marking a grand celebration of local products, in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality.
To run until December 18, the festival highlights Qatar's finest food and non-food products, celebrating the nation’s cultural heritage and traditions.
Since its inception in 2010, the festival has become a hallmark event across all LuLu outlets in the region, showcasing locally produced goods while supporting small Qatari businesses and entrepreneurs.
Shoppers can explore a wide range of fresh produce, such as vegetables, herbs, chicken, eggs, Arabic lamb and beef, chilled and frozen items, dairy, processed foods, baked goods, groceries, health and beauty products, linens, pillow and table covers, bed sheets, and much more.
The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of dignitaries including Saud al-Marri from the ministry’s Food Security Department, Ahmed al-Yafei from the ministry’s Agricultural Affairs Department, Safwa Farm general manager Fardan al-Fardan, Mahaseel Company general manager Mohammed Ismail al-Mohammed, and LuLu Group international director Dr Mohamed Althaf.
Senior Lulu officials and distinguished Qataris from public and private sector organisations were also present.
Speaking at the event, Dr Althaf emphasised Qatar’s advancements in agriculture and food security.
“Qatar has made remarkable strides in strengthening its agricultural capabilities and enhancing food security,” he said. “This initiative highlights the progress in local food production, the nation’s growing self-sufficiency, and the availability of high-quality, pesticide-free products.”
Over the past eight years, Qatar’s agricultural sector has evolved to meet 80% of the nation’s essential food requirements, a testament to its investment in modern farming technologies and sustainable practices.
“This growth is not just about quantity but also quality,” Dr Althaf said. “From high-quality crops to specialty products once imported, Qatar’s farms now offer an impressive range of fresh and local produce.”
The festival also serves as a platform to connect consumers with Qatar’s agricultural heritage.
By celebrating local farming traditions and culinary practices, it fosters pride in locally produced food and ensures the preservation of traditional agricultural knowledge.
While no nation is entirely self-sufficient in food, Qatar has successfully developed a robust supply chain for short-life perishables.
The country can now meet immediate food needs within a two-to-three-day window, ensuring continuous availability of fresh produce and dairy products.
"This year’s festival showcases over 300+ locally produced items from 35 Qatari farms, along with renowned Qatari brands such as Baladna, Safwa Farm, Agrico Qatar, Dandy, Al Maha, Rawa, Rayyan, Qbake, Pearl, Jawharh, Flora, Gourmet and many more," Dr Althaf added.
LuLu Group has been a key player in supporting Qatar’s local farmers and entrepreneurs, promoting their products as part of its social and economic commitment to the nation.
The retailer’s long-standing partnerships have helped to market local agricultural produce to a broad audience while contributing to the country’s food security and sustainability goals.
