Families visit the Saddar shopping street along Bank Road in Rawalpindi, keeping to the tradition of evening Eid shopping trips during Ramazan nights. Photo: Agha Mahroz/Express
LAHORE:
With just days to go before Eidul Fitr, markets across Pakistan are witnessing a surge in activity as shoppers rush to complete last-minute purchases despite rising prices and growing unrest over tensions in the Middle East.
From major urban centers to smaller towns, bazaars remain crowded late into the night, reflecting the traditional pre-Eid bustle. However, many citizens say the ongoing conflict in Iran and the wider Gulf region has cast a shadow over this year’s celebrations.
Speaking to The Express Pakinomist, a university student, Ali Ahmed, while shopping for clothes on Model Town Link Road, said: “There is a festive atmosphere due to Eid, but the situation in Iran and the Gulf is worrying. We hope things do not escalate further as conflicts around the world have already caused significant loss of life”.
A shopkeeper, Rashid Hafeez, said global uncertainty is being felt locally. “When there is conflict, prices go up everywhere. We are already seeing the impact on fuel and daily expenses,” he said.
Some citizens also called for restraint from global leaders. “War brings only suffering. We appeal to world leaders to show restraint and solve problems through dialogue,” said a teacher, Mian Anees. “Muslim countries in particular should stand united in this difficult time,” he added.
Despite these concerns, markets across the city are bustling with activity. Lined with clothing stores, footwear shops and makeshift stalls, the streets are filled with families as the annual ritual of Eid shopping takes off.
For many, the selection of Eid outfits remains the centerpiece of the preparations. Women throng fabric markets and ready-made clothing stores, carefully choosing dresses according to the fashion trends of the time.
The shopping often extends to jewelry stalls, where both traditional and modern designs draw large crowds of women looking for matching accessories.
Bangles vendors, 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 look. Shoe stores and accessory stores are similarly packed, adding to the vibrancy of the markets.
Children remain at the heart of the festivities, with toy shops and street vendors witnessing increased footfall as parents try to fulfill their children’s wishes ahead of Eid.
Men are equally engaged in the preparations. While many had previously placed orders with tailors for tailor-made suits, delays have pushed a growing number towards ready-made clothing stores. Younger shoppers in particular are opting for a mix of traditional and western attire, pairing suits with shirts, trousers and new footwear.
Despite the visible enthusiasm, conversations in the markets reveal a more complex mood this year. “Prices are very high but we still 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 remain determined to celebrate. “We have reduced our budget but we cannot ignore Eid. It is important for the children,” she said.
Retailers acknowledge the mixed feeling. While there is still a strong influx, many say customers are spending more cautiously, prioritizing essential purchases over discretionary items.
