'Tamim Al Majd' products have added lustre to novelty and souvenir shops in an otherwise dull state of business during the summer season, The Peninsula has learnt.
When the portrait of Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, titled “Tamim Al Majd”, created by Qatari artist Ahmed Almaadheed, had become popular at the height of the siege imposed on Qatar by neighbouring Gulf states, a number of products bearing the image emerged in the market.
Not only companies providing decal stickers have seen good business with buildings and walls having customised “Tamim Al Majd” images plastered on them but also small stores retailing car stickers, T-shirts and caps, among other products have recorded rising sales.
Shops in souqs around Doha have been selling merchandise with the image printed on them which many people — nationals and expatriates — have patronised to show their support to the country. The products have sparked inspiration during a crucial period in the country’s diplomatic relations with its Gulf neighbours.
Around a hundred shops selling garments, perfumes, and souvenir and gift items which comprise most of the stalls located in Souq Al Ali in Gharrafa have been witnessing brisk sales of “Tamim Al Majd” T-shirts, stickers and caps, among other items.
“It is normal for us to have slow business at this time of the year because schools are closed and people go out of the country for vacation. Selling these T-shirts, caps and stickers gives us additional income,” said Muneer, an employee of a tailoring shop, which also sells a number of Tamim Al Majd merchandise. T-shirts at Muneer’s shop priced between QR15 to QR25 are in demand as well as stickers in several sizes which cost between QR5 to QR15 and caps sold for QR20 each.
“Our business usually picks up before the opening of schools when students have their uniforms tailored and when National Day comes for students’ costumes,” said Ibrahim, a staff of another tailoring shop in the souq.
Retail stores located in Souq Waqif, a famous tourist spot in Doha, have also maintained the same sales momentum for the said products as well as other merchandise such as mugs, key chains and throw pillows. “Many people still buy T-shirts and stickers, though demand was higher earlier last month when there were times we would sell around a hundred pieces daily,” said, Rajan, who is working at one of the shops offering novelty items in Souq Waqif.
Despite the negative consequences of the crisis, the siege has positive effects, one of which is providing some opportunities to a number of industries like them, added Rajan.
Others say the siege has brought out the best among Qataris and residents.
