Doha, Qatar: Qatar’s consumers increasingly turned to online shopping and delivery platforms during Eid Al-Adha holidays, driven by convenience, time savings, and the growing availability of digital services.
Many residents told The Peninsula that they order for gifts, clothing, electronics, perfumes, and food delivery services as mobile applications and e-commerce platforms have become an essential part of holiday preparations, allowing them to avoid crowded stores and benefit from promotions and home delivery services.
“I order groceries and household items online because it saves time,” said Doha resident Faisal Ahmed. “But for Eid clothes and gifts, I prefer going to the mall with my family. We like to see the products and enjoy the atmosphere.”
Another resident, Aisha Mahmoud, said convenience has made online shopping an important part of her Eid preparations.
“I’ve ordered several items online this year, including gifts and food products. Delivery services are much faster now, and there are plenty of discounts available,” she said. “But I still visit shopping centres for clothing and perfumes because I want to see the quality before buying.”
She further added, “Most of my Eid purchases were made through apps this year. It’s easier, especially with work commitments, and I can also compare prices, place orders, and have everything delivered.”
However, analysts noted that physical retail continues to dominate certain categories, particularly fashion, luxury goods, jewellery, and Eid gifts, where customers prefer to inspect products before making purchases.
“E-commerce is growing, but malls remain central to the Eid shopping experience in Qatar,” said consumer trends expert Abdul Hassan. “Many families still enjoy visiting shopping centres, comparing products, and spending time together as part of their holiday preparations.”
Retailers have responded by strengthening both online and in-store offerings. Many businesses have launched Eid promotions across digital channels while simultaneously expanding mall-based experiences, entertainment activities, and seasonal events to attract shoppers.
According to industry observers, the strongest online demand this Eid has been for grocery deliveries, restaurant orders, electronics, flowers, gifts, and household products. Meanwhile, physical stores continue to lead in categories such as fashion, luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, and family shopping experiences.
Experts note that the trend reflects the growing integration of digital commerce into everyday life rather than a complete shift away from traditional retail.
“E-commerce is becoming an important complement to physical retail rather than a replacement,” Hassan said. “Consumers want convenience for some purchases and the in-person experience for others.”
With strong consumer spending expected throughout the Eid holiday period, analysts believe Qatar’s retail sector will continue benefiting from both channels, with shopping malls and e-commerce platforms increasingly working together to meet changing customer expectations.
