Doha Festival City Unveils Retail Trends for 2025 in New Report

Doha Festival City has launched its inaugural report, the Festival Edits: Qatar’s Retail Trends Report 2025, offering a comprehensive analysis of the evolving retail landscape in Qatar. This data-driven study combines quantitative and qualitative insights from Ipsos and various industry experts, aiming to illuminate consumer behavior and market trends.

The report reveals that shopping is the primary motivation for visitors to Doha Festival City, with 46% of respondents citing it as their top reason for visiting, followed closely by dining at 40% and leisure activities—including cinema and events—at 30%. These findings highlight the mall’s role as a multifaceted destination that caters to diverse interests.

Among specific demographics, the report outlines distinct beauty spending habits. Notably, 40% of Gen Z Qatari females prioritize makeup purchases, while 25% focus on fragrances and 20% on skincare. In terms of fashion preferences, 34% of shoppers lean towards streetwear, while 22% of Gen Z females favor a modest-meets-contemporary style.

The study also indicates that 50% of shoppers value ambience, personalization, and events over convenience when selecting a mall. This trend underscores the shift towards creating engaging, experiential shopping environments. Male shoppers also demonstrate a strong preference for premium fragrances, with 32% prioritizing high-end perfumery in their purchases.

Insights into the Future of Retail in Qatar

The research further explores the anticipated growth of technology within the retail sector. The investment in artificial intelligence (AI) across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is projected to increase significantly, from $5 billion in 2023 to $31 billion by 2028. Remarkably, 97% of retailers plan to enhance their technological investments, emphasizing the importance of adapting to digital trends.

Doha Festival City aims to be at the forefront of this transformation, positioning itself as not just a shopping destination but also a cultural and social hub. “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 added that the report captures the essence of modern retail in Qatar, reflecting the preferences of diverse audiences—from beauty enthusiasts to gaming fans.

The report was officially launched at a gathering in Raffles Doha, featuring discussions among industry leaders, including Hayssam Hajjar, Executive Director of Malls at Al-Futtaim Real Estate, and other notable panelists. The event focused on sharing insights and actionable strategies for retailers and marketers to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

Emerging Trends in Fashion and Beauty

The Festival Edits offers valuable perspectives from key figures in Qatar’s fashion, beauty, and retail sectors. Voices included Sheikh Khalifa Al-Thani and representatives from brands like Harvey Nichols Doha and MAC Cosmetics. Discussions covered emerging trends such as quiet luxury, clean beauty, genderless design, and sustainable style, contextualizing global movements within Qatar’s unique cultural framework.

As Qatar’s retail landscape continues to evolve, the Festival Edits serves as a crucial resource for understanding consumer priorities and market dynamics. The report is accessible on the Doha Festival City website for those wishing to delve deeper into the findings and insights.

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