Satyendra Pathak
Doha
LuLu Hypermarket has officially launched the ‘Qatari Products: Our First Choice’ initiative at its D-Ring Road store, a week-long festival dedicated to promoting local products in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality.
The event, running from December 12 to December 18, celebrates Qatar’s rich cultural heritage while showcasing locally produced food and non-food items.
Since its debut in 2010, the festival has grown into a key event across all LuLu outlets, underscoring the retailer’s commitment to supporting small Qatari businesses and entrepreneurs.
The initiative highlights a wide range of locally sourced goods, from fresh produce, dairy, and meats to health and beauty products, linens, and more.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Saud Al Marri from the Food Security Department at the Ministry of Municipality, Ahmed Al Yafei from the Agricultural Affairs Department, Fardan Al Fardan, General Manager of Safwa Farm, and Mohammed Ismail Al Mohammed, General Manager of Mahaseel Company.
Also present was Dr Mohamed Althaf, Global Director of LuLu Group, alongside senior officials from LuLu management and distinguished representatives from both public and private sectors.
Speaking at the event, Althaf highlighted Qatar’s advancements in agriculture and food security. He said, "Qatar has made remarkable strides in strengthening its agricultural capabilities and enhancing food security. This initiative not only celebrates the nation’s agricultural progress but also showcases high-quality, pesticide-free products that reflect Qatar’s growing self-sufficiency.”
Over the past eight years, Qatar’s agricultural sector has made significant strides, now meeting 80 percent of the nation’s food requirements. This achievement is attributed to the adoption of modern farming technologies and sustainable agricultural practices, which have boosted both the quantity and quality of local produce.
Althaf further emphasised the festival’s role in promoting local farming traditions, stating, "This festival is a celebration of Qatar’s agricultural heritage, connecting consumers with the nation’s rich farming traditions and ensuring the preservation of knowledge passed down through generations.”
The festival features over 300 locally produced items from 35 Qatari farms, including renowned brands like Baladna, Safwa Farm, Agrico Qatar, Dandy, and Al Maha, among others.
These products demonstrate the country’s increasing self-sufficiency in food production, particularly in short-life perishables, which can now be supplied within a two-to-three-day window, ensuring continuous availability of fresh produce.
LuLu Hypermarket has played a pivotal role in supporting Qatar’s agricultural sector, helping to market local produce and contribute to the nation’s food security and sustainability goals. The retailer’s long-standing partnerships with Qatari farmers have created a sustainable supply chain that benefits both consumers and local entrepreneurs.
This year’s festival also invites visitors to explore Qatar’s culture, traditions, and culinary heritage. It is an opportunity for shoppers to support local businesses while experiencing the nation’s agricultural progress firsthand.