JEDDAH: Despite the high humidity, more families are heading to Balad for Eid shopping this year because of the attractive prices and to meet with friends and family in the historic area.
32-year-old Abdullah Al-Ayed tours the shops in old Jeddah every often in Ramadan after the Taraweeh prayers in order to purchase Eid items. The daily trip is a change from his work-life routine, as he can meet with friends over tea and coffee, and enjoy the historic area.
“Every year, I make sure to buy all my needs for Eid from Balad due to the fact that everything can be found there at such good prices that are better than (the ones at) malls,” he says. “After shopping, I can meet with friends in the nearby areas and enjoy the atmosphere, as many people do.”
Yaser Al-Shihri, Abdullah Al-Barqi and Mohammed Faiharsoun have been meeting in Balad three times a week since the beginning of Ramadan in order to buy fabric for Eid thobes and some branded products. Compared to the shopping malls, they say the prices are fairer, more affordable.
“Previously, I used to buy all my items from malls, which were overcrowded, but my friend advised me to head to Balad and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of products, like oud, and good prices,” says Al-Shihri.
Many visitors head for Balad after Taraweeh prayers to enjoy a cup of coffee and a few hours in the company of friends.
Many have been attending the historic festival in the area, as well as doing shopping before Eid.