Muscat: The Al Batinah North Municipality announced the initiation of an extensive project to revive the Friday Market in the Wilayat of Suhar. This ambitious endeavour seeks to enhance the market's capacity, facilitating the display of local products and ensuring a more spacious and accessible environment for both vendors and shoppers. The redevelopment will also mitigate overcrowding and guarantee the market's smooth operation during adverse weather conditions.
The Friday Market holds a significant place in the hearts of the Al Batinah North Governorate's residents, exuding the delightful blend of the past and present. It has long been a bustling meeting point for sellers and shoppers, attracting visitors from Suhar and various wilayats in the Al Batinah North and South governorates. Its unique assortment of traditional supplies makes it a treasure trove not easily found elsewhere, adding to its allure for both locals and tourists keen on exploring the essence of Omani and Islamic architecture.
According to Sulaiman bin Hamad al Sunaidy, the Director General of Al Batinah North Municipality, the rehabilitation project for the Friday Market is a vital measure to diversify the region's markets while ensuring the continued presence of such vibrant economic hubs that contribute significantly to the community's well-being.
The market's redesign includes an impressive 178 parking spaces, an expansive umbrella-covered area of approximately 2,276 square metres, a well-paved 1,655-metre-long road, 17,260 square metres of asphalted space, and 4,680 square metres of interlocking tiles in several sections of the market. Additionally, there is a provision for a comprehensive 1050-metre-long rainwater drainage system.
Sulaiman al Sunaidy stressed that the market's rehabilitation will stimulate commercial and economic activity not only within the Wilayat of Suhar but across the entire governorate. With local products proudly displayed by the region's pioneers, this rejuvenated market is set to boost the income of many families and provide consumers with access to authentic goods that draw both local and external visitors.
The Friday market's strategic location in close proximity to the historic Suhar Fort, the Suhar market, the sea road, and the castle market for trade and traditional crafts makes it an attractive destination for those visiting the Wilayat of Suhar. Its juxtaposition with modern commercial centres and complexes further encourages visitors to explore this dynamic marketplace, rooted in the rich heritage of Omani sellers.
Said al Harthy, a devoted vendor at the Friday Market, shared his decade-long experience in selling at the animal feed corner, emphasising the market's immense economic and social importance. Said expressed his commitment to his profession, which has proven to be both fulfilling and financially rewarding. He enthusiastically welcomed the market's rehabilitation, believing that it will invigorate the market and draw in numerous merchants once again.
Another loyal visitor to the Friday Market, Yousef al Jabri, cherished fond memories of his childhood visits and continued to frequent the market to purchase fodder and camel supplies. For Al Jabri, the market represents more than just a place for transactions; it symbolises a cherished traditional gathering spot by the present generation. He commended Suhar Municipality's proactive step in reviving and preserving the market, recognising its far-reaching positive impact on the entire region.
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