Joelyn Baluyut
DOHA
Souq Waqif, one of Doha’s most iconic cultural and commercial hubs, will be hosting three major exhibitions during the first quarter of this year.
These events will showcase a rich array of regional and international specialties, including the 6th Souq Waqif International Honey Exhibition, the 3rd Souq Waqif International Dates Exhibition, and the inaugural Eid Sweets Exhibition.
The 6th Souq Waqif International Honey Exhibition will take place from January 30 to February 8, followed by the 3rd Souq Waqif International Dates Exhibition, running from February 13 to 24.
Finally, the Eid Sweets Exhibition will coincide with the festive season from March 20 to 29, providing a sweet conclusion to the first quarter of the year. Companies interested in participating in any of these exhibitions can now register via the exhibition website: exhibition.souqwaqif.qa. The participation fee is QR1,500 per exhibition, which is non-refundable.
Registration deadlines are fast approaching: the last day for signing up for the International Honey Exhibition is January 10, followed by January 20 for the International Dates Festival, and February 28 for the Eid Sweets Exhibition.
Last year’s International Honey Exhibition was a major success, wherein over 100 local and international exhibitors from 25 countries participated. The event featured more than 60 types of honey, including Sidr, Wild Sidr, Manuka, Acacia, and Mountain Flower Honey. Attendees have the chance to sample a wide range of honey varieties, each known for their unique flavour profiles and health benefits.
Similarly, the International Dates Exhibition is set to offer an abundance of date products, with varieties such as Halawy, Mazafati, Medjool, and Jordan Banks Dates, as well as innovative treats like Milk Chocolate Date Almonds and Dates with Coconut. Dates, often associated with Ramadan, are enjoyed during Iftar to break the fast.
The Eid Sweets Exhibition, which will coincide with the Eid Al Fitr, will be a sweet treat for all. Eid is a significant religious holiday in Qatar, marking the end of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal. Known as the Festival of Sweets, the celebration is a time for feasting and indulging in delicious desserts, and the exhibition will feature a variety of traditional Arab sweets enjoyed during this festive period.
Among the most common Eid sweets are Balaleet and Maamoul to name some.
