Markets in al-Hasakah governorate, particularly in the cities of al-Hasakah and Qamishli, are seeing brisk activity ahead of Eid al-Fitr, with residents noticeably stepping up purchases of holiday essentials despite sharp price increases that are adding to the burden on households already facing difficult living conditions.
This commercial activity comes as the governorate continues to experience political and security developments following the January agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), developments that have shaped the broader atmosphere the broader atmosphere, including preparations for Eid, which many residents describe as caught between caution and hope.
Busy markets
From early morning until evening, the main markets in al-Hasakah and Qamishli are crowded, as residents move between clothing stores and sweet shops in an effort to secure their needs before the holiday begins.
In Qamishli’s central market, shops selling Eid sweets and nuts line the streets alongside clothing stores displaying a variety of options for children and adults, with limited discounts and offers aimed at attracting customers.
Mohammad al-Abd, a resident of Qamishli, told Enab Baladi that “markets this year are better than last year in terms of activity, but prices are higher than ever,” adding that he was forced to cut back his shopping list and settle for the essentials.
For her part, Suad al-Hussein, a mother of three from al-Hasakah, said that “buying Eid clothes for children remains a priority despite the high prices,” explaining that “Eid means nothing without children’s joy, even if we have to struggle to find the money.”
Noticeable rise in prices
Prices of Eid essentials have risen clearly this year. The cost of holiday sweets has increased significantly compared with last year, while clothing prices have also moved beyond the reach of many families.
According to an Enab Baladi tour of the markets, the price of one kilogram of sweets ranges between 40,000 and 100,000 Syrian pounds (about $3.39 to $8.47) depending on type and quality, while children’s clothing starts at 400,000 Syrian pounds (about $33.90) per outfit, a level residents describe as “very high” compared with income levels.
Ahmad al-Khaled, an employee from al-Hasakah, said his salary is not enough to cover Eid expenses, adding that he had to borrow money to buy clothes for his children and some sweets.
“Every year we face the same problem, but this year seems harder. Prices have almost doubled, while salaries have remained the same,” Ahmad said.
Holding on to Eid traditions despite hardship
Despite the economic difficulties, many residents remain committed to Eid traditions, including buying new clothes for children, preparing sweets, and receiving guests.
Fatima al-Ali, from Qamishli, said that “Eid has traditions that cannot be abandoned,” noting that she tries to cut spending in other areas so she can afford holiday essentials.
She added, “Even if the quantities are smaller this year, Eid cannot pass without sweets or new clothes for the children.”
Some residents believe these traditions provide a “psychological outlet” amid the difficult conditions and help bring joy to children, even in a limited way.
Merchants say costs are up, demand remains cautious
Shop owners say rising prices are mainly driven by higher import and transport costs, as well as exchange rate fluctuations.
Khaled Mustafa, the owner of a sweets shop in al-Hasakah, said wholesale prices have risen sharply this year, which has been reflected in final retail prices. He added that profit margins have become “limited” amid weak purchasing power.
He said demand is “relatively good,” but mostly focused on small quantities, with customers buying “only what they can afford.”
Similarly, Samer al-Hassan, a clothing store owner in Qamishli, said the cost of goods has doubled compared with last year, noting that some customers ask about prices without buying anything.
“We try to offer discounts and promotions, but that is not enough under the current living conditions,” he added.
Political developments shape the Eid atmosphere
These pre-holiday conditions come amid developments in al-Hasakah governorate following the January agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF, which included understandings related to administration, services, and security in the area.
Some residents believe these developments have contributed to a relative improvement in stability, which has been reflected in market activity, while others continue to approach the broader situation with caution.
Abdel Karim Mohammad, a resident of al-Hasakah, said that “relative stability has encouraged people to go out to the markets,” though he added that “the situation is still not fully clear.”
By contrast, Leila Ahmad from Qamishli said that “people want to live their lives normally, regardless of political developments,” stressing that “Eid is an occasion that cannot be ignored.”
Between inflation and hope
Despite economic challenges and rising prices, the movement in al-Hasakah and Qamishli markets reflects residents’ determination to hold on to life and its traditions, and their efforts to create a sense of joy as Eid al-Fitr approaches.
While residents complain of high prices and declining purchasing power, many say they will continue buying whatever Eid essentials they can afford, even at a minimum level, in order to preserve the rituals of the occasion.
At the same time, shop owners hope economic conditions will improve in the coming period, helping revive the markets and strengthen residents’ purchasing power.
As Eid draws near, al-Hasakah’s markets remain a reflection of overlapping pressures, from rising living costs to political developments, in a scene that captures the reality of the region and its challenges, alongside persistent attempts to preserve moments of joy during one of the most important social occasions.
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