Families visit Saddar shopping street along Bank Road in Rawalpindi, maintaining the tradition of Eid night shopping trips during the nights of Ramadan. Photo: Agha Mahroz/Express
LAHORE:
With Eidul Fitr just days away, markets across Pakistan are witnessing a surge in activity, as shoppers rush to complete their last-minute purchases despite rising prices and growing concerns over tensions in the Middle East.
From major urban centers to smaller towns, bazaars remain packed well into the night, reflecting the traditional pre-Eid rush. However, many citizens say the ongoing conflict in Iran and the broader Gulf region has cast a shadow over this year’s festivities.
Speaking to The Express PAkGazette, college student Ali Ahmed, while shopping for clothes at 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 lives.”
A trader, Rashid Hafeez, said global uncertainty is 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 for restraint. “War only brings suffering. We call on world leaders to show restraint and resolve problems through dialogue,” said Professor Mian Anees. “Muslim countries, especially, should remain united in this difficult time,” he added.
Despite these concerns, markets across the city are bustling with activity. Streets lined with clothing, footwear shops and makeshift stalls are bustling with families, as the annual Eid shopping ritual gathers pace.
For many, choosing an Eid outfit remains the centerpiece of the preparations. Women crowd fabric markets and ready-made clothing stores, carefully choosing dresses in accordance with current fashion trends.
Shopping often extends to jewelry stalls, where both traditional and contemporary designs attract large crowds of women looking for matching accessories.
Bangle vendors, particularly those offering Kashmiri designs, report brisk business, while mehndi stalls have also seen a steady influx of girls and young women eager to complete their festive look. Shoe stores and accessories stores are also full, adding to the vitality of the markets.
Children remain at the center of the celebrations, with toy shops and street vendors witnessing a surge in footfall as parents try to fulfill their children’s wishes ahead of Eid.
The men are equally busy in the preparations. While many had previously placed orders with tailors for custom-sewn suits, delays have pushed a growing number to turn to ready-made clothing stores. Younger shoppers, in particular, opt for a mix of traditional and Western attire, pairing suits with shirts, pants and new shoes.
Despite the visible enthusiasm, conversations in the markets reveal a more complex mood this year. “The 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 children,” he said.
Retailers acknowledge the mixed sentiment. While footfall remains strong, many say customers are spending more cautiously, prioritizing essential purchases over discretionary items.
