Qatar’s popular farmer’s markets will add two new locations in Muaithir and Al Ruwais when they reopen for their fifth season in a few months.

The new markets will likely launch in December, Yousef Al Khulaifi, director of the Department of Agricultural Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), told the Peninsula.

However, the exact locations of the new venues are still being determined, pending approval from local authorities, he added.

The official also said the government is aiming to open the markets even earlier than in previous years – ideally getting some locations operational by November.

Rapid growth

Over the past four years, farmer’s markets in Qatar have been expanding at a robust clip.

During its most recent season, the MME operated markets at three locations around the country: the Al Mazrouah Yard near Umm Salal Stadium, in Al Khor at the Al Dhakira yard and in Al Wakrah.

The venues offered produce from some 77 local farms, including ones that sold organic fruits and vegetables. There was also fresh fish, livestock, poultry and locally made honey for sale.

For many residents, the freshness of the produce and the lower prices (40 to 50 percent less than supermarkets) have been the biggest draw.

The MME has also been holding more events to celebrate local produce, including a strawberry “festival” and a honey “festival,” where each product was the star of the show during a weekend.

When they open in November, the markets will be open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 7am to 5pm.

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