JEDDAH — Ramadan bazaars in the Kingdom have significantly changed from being events where affordable products and local handmade goods were sold to social events where expensive and high-end clothes are showcased. Instead of celebrating fashion, homemade food and shopping for cheap handicrafts, women who visit bazaars now often do so to socialize and shop for high-end items. Several women who spoke to Saudi Gazette spoke out against the trend, which they said has ruined the essence of Ramandan bazaars. "Most of the products that are sold in the bazaars are not only expensive but the majority are not handicraft products. Vendors at most bazaars are financially well off and they are only interested in showcasing the latest brands and products," said one visitor. Marwa Ahmed, a Saudi, said most women go to bazaars not for the sake of shopping but to show off. "Women like to visit Ramadan bazaars to meet their friends and socialize. For many people they have become entertainment place they must visit to see social media celebrities, drink beverages and then say that they have attended a cultural event," she said. Dana Sulaiman, a Saudi teenager, said that she has not attended any bazaars so far this year. "The itmes are very expensive but if they have handicrafts then I have absolutely no problem in paying for them," she said. While many criticized the changing culture at Ramadan bazaars, others were quick to accept them. "I cannot miss any bazaar during Ramadan because there are always new fashionable clothes and pieces that I can buy. Products in the bazaars have become expensive in recent years because many new fashion designers and entrepreneurs have started showcasing their products but there are still many affordable ones being sold," said Sarah Khalid. A limited number of Ramadan bazaars are sticking to the tradition of showcasing handmade products, satisfying their loyal customer base. Rana Rozi, a Saudi student, only goes to bazaars sponsored by the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) because they have unique merchandise that she cannot find in regular stores at low prices. "The purpose of a bazaar is to showcase items that one may not find at a regular store in a mall. Handicrafts and other local products is what draws people," she said.
