Doha Festival City Unveils 2025 Retail Trends Report

Doha Festival City has launched the Festival Edits: Qatar’s Retail Trends Report 2025, a comprehensive study that provides insights into the evolving fashion, beauty, and retail landscape in Qatar. This first-of-its-kind report, developed in collaboration with cultural institutions and industry experts, combines quantitative data from a survey of over 2,000 respondents with qualitative analysis to uncover shifts in consumer behavior and market trends.

The report highlights that shopping continues to be the primary reason for visits to Doha Festival City, with 46% of respondents indicating it as their main motivation. Dining follows closely, attracting 40% of visitors, while leisure and entertainment activities, including cinema and events, account for 30% of visits. This reflects the mall’s role as a social and cultural hub, catering to a diverse shopper demographic.

Among the younger population, particularly Gen Z Qatari females, beauty preferences are clearly defined. The survey reveals that 40% prioritize makeup, 25% focus on fragrance, and 20% invest in skincare products. Fashion trends among these shoppers lean towards modest-meets-contemporary styles for 22% of Gen Z females, with streetwear being the preferred choice for 34% of all shoppers. Male consumers also show a strong interest in premium perfumery, with 32% prioritizing high-end fragrances in their purchases.

The findings indicate that malls are becoming more than just shopping venues; they are evolving into experiential destinations. 50% of shoppers rank ambience, personalization, and events as more important than convenience, showcasing a shift towards a more curated shopping experience. The average visit lasts approximately 2.7 hours, with many younger visitors incorporating these trips into their weekly routines.

Looking ahead, the report addresses the future of retail in Qatar, particularly the rise of technology in the sector. The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) retail market is projected to expand from $5 billion in 2023 to an impressive $31 billion by 2028, with 97% of retailers planning to increase their investments in this area. This growth highlights the importance of integrating digital experiences with traditional retail.

“Malls have become venues for connection and curation as much as commerce,” stated Mohamed ElSharkawy, Associate Director of Malls Leasing at Doha Festival City. He emphasized that the Festival Edits encapsulates the transformation of retail in Qatar, providing insights that resonate with diverse consumer interests, from beauty enthusiasts to streetwear fans.

The official launch event took place at Raffles Doha, featuring a fireside chat with Hayssam Hajjar, Executive Director of Malls at Al-Futtaim Real Estate. The discussions, moderated by Areej Mohammed, included insights from industry leaders such as Joseph Ibrahim of Chalhoub Group and Bianca Brigitte Bonomi of Harper’s Bazaar Qatar. The event focused on actionable insights for retailers and brands, reinforcing the report’s significance in shaping future retail strategies in Qatar.

The Festival Edits draws upon the perspectives of key figures influencing Qatar’s retail landscape, including Sheikh Khalifa Al-Thani, Ahmed Al Meghessib, and several others. Their contributions provide a nuanced understanding of emerging trends, including quiet luxury, clean beauty, and sustainable fashion, all framed within Qatar’s unique cultural context.

For those interested in exploring the full report and accessing the latest industry insights, further information is available on the Doha Festival City website and their social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and X.