Families visit Saddar Shopping Street along Bank Road in Rawalpindi, continuing the tradition of Eid night shopping trips taken during Ramazan evenings. Photo: Agha Mahroz/Express
LAHORE:
With Eidul Fitr just days away, Pakistan’s markets are seeing a surge of activity as shoppers rush to make last-minute purchases despite rising prices and growing concern over tensions in the Middle East.
From large urban centers to small towns, bazaars remain crowded until late at night, reflecting the traditional pre-Eid rush. However, many citizens say the ongoing conflict in Iran and the Gulf region has cast a shadow over this year’s festivities.
Speaking to The Express PK Press Club, a university student, Ali Ahmed, while shopping at Model Town Link Road, said: “There is a festive atmosphere because of Eid, but the situation in Iran and the Gulf is worrying. We hope that things do not get any worse, as conflicts around the world have already caused significant loss of life.”
A trader, Rashid Hafeez, said global uncertainty was being felt locally. “When there is conflict, prices rise everywhere. We are already seeing the impact on fuel and daily expenses,” he said.
Some citizens also urged world leaders to exercise restraint. “War only brings suffering. We call on world leaders to exercise restraint and resolve problems through dialogue,” said Mian Anees, a teacher. “Muslim countries, in particular, should remain united in this difficult time,” he added.
Despite these concerns, the city’s markets are bustling with activity. Streets lined with clothing stores, shoe shops and makeshift stalls are packed with families, as the annual ritual of Eid shopping gathers pace.
For many, the selection of Eid outfits remains the centerpiece of the preparations. Women flock to fabric markets and ready-to-wear stores, carefully choosing dresses in sync with current fashion trends.
Shopping often extends to jewelry stalls, where traditional and contemporary designs attract large crowds of women looking for matching accessories.
Bangle sellers, especially those offering Kashmiri designs, are reporting brisk business, while mehndi stalls have also seen a steady influx of young girls and women eager to complete their festive looks. Shoe and accessories stores are also crowded, which adds to the dynamism of the markets.
Children remain at the heart of the celebrations, with toy shops and street vendors seeing increased footfall as parents try to fulfill their children’s wishes ahead of Eid.
Men are also engaged in the preparations. While many had already placed orders with tailors for custom-sewn suits, the delays have pushed increasing numbers of people to turn to ready-to-wear stores. Younger shoppers, in particular, are opting for a mix of traditional and Western clothing, pairing suits with shirts, pants and new shoes.
Despite the visible enthusiasm, market conversations reveal a more complex mood this year. “The prices are very high, but we always try to buy something for our children. Eid comes once a year,” said Muhammad Hafeez, a shopper at Lahore’s Anarkali Bazaar.
Another customer said families are cutting back on spending but remaining committed to celebrating. “We have reduced our budget, but we cannot ignore Eid. It is important for children,” she said.
Retailers recognize this mixed feeling. Although footfall remains strong, many say customers are spending more cautiously, favoring essential purchases over discretionary items.
