The remarks came during a field visit organized by the Chamber’s Board of Directors to Muharraq Souq, attended by several Board members, traders and business owners, as part of the Chamber’s field visit program to strengthen direct engagement with the business community and identify the needs of local markets.
The visit began with a dialogue session with traders at the majlis of businessman Fouad Shwaiter, where key challenges and proposals for developing the souq, revitalising commercial activity and enhancing its appeal to shoppers, visitors and tourists were discussed.
Kanoo highlighted the importance of direct engagement with traders as a key pillar of the Board’s approach during its 31st term. He noted that the Chamber is committed to listening to business owners on the ground, conveying their views and needs to the relevant authorities, and working with them to identify practical solutions.
He added that the proposals raised by Muharraq Souq traders will be studied and followed up with the relevant authorities, with the aim of developing initiatives that support businesses, strengthen the souq’s competitiveness and sustain its commercial activity.
The Chairman and Board members also toured Qaysariyah Souq and several of its facilities and shops, meeting with traders and shop owners and hearing their views on the market’s development and commercial activity.
Kanoo noted that Qaysariyah Souq, with its significant historical and heritage value, reflects Muharraq’s longstanding commercial importance and its connection to trade, the pearl industry and traditional markets. He stressed that preserving this heritage while supporting balanced development would enhance the market’s economic and tourism value.
He further emphasised that developing traditional markets requires coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors to preserve their historic character while meeting the needs of modern commerce, visitors and shoppers. He reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to continuing its field visits and working with the relevant authorities to address the concerns raised by businesses and strengthen the vitality and competitiveness of the private sector.
