All shops and stores are legally required to sell the goods at prices fixed by the Ministry of Economy and Commerce for the run-up to and the duration of the holy month, which starts around June 7 and ends around July 6.
As demand for fresh produce increases before the holy month, daily inspections will focus particularly on the central food market in Abu Hamour, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) said in an announcement this week.
The five-hour workday will run from 9am to 2pm and does not apply to private companies. However, Qatari law states that these firms must also have a shortened workday of six hours.
Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) yesterday said it plans to spend some QR96 million on food, healthcare, development and social rehabilitation projects in Qatar and 15 other countries during the holy month and beyond.