Three of Qatar’s farmers’ markets officially opened for the season this weekend.
The locations, in Al Khor, Al Wakrah and Al Mazrouah (near Umm Salal Stadium) are selling produce from 78 local farms.
Currently, mostly vegetables are on offer, including cucumbers, squash, zucchini, eggplant, green beans, okra and red and yellow peppers.
There are also melons, dates and some organic items.
The selection is expected to widen in the coming months, with tomatoes arriving in December, stall vendors told Doha News today.
Additionally, two more sites are expected to come online in Al Muaithir and Al Ruwais this season. However, locations and start times for these have yet to be finalized.
More locally-grown produce
Every year, the markets draw brisk business in part for their low prices.
Today, 3kg of cucumbers were selling for QR5, while a 3kg box of eggplant went for just QR6.
Some stalls at the Al Mazrouah Yard today sold Qatari food, and flowers and plants were also on sale (bunches of lilies cost QR20-QR50).
Due to its early October start, officials are expecting to have a record season of sales.
Last year, the markets sold some 4,785 tonnes of vegetables, up 3,618 from the previous season.
The markets are open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 7am to 5pm, with a break for prayers on Fridays.
