Feature: Egypt's diverse Eid al-Adha clothing market offers options for varied budgets

The Star

a day ago

CAIRO, June 4 (Xinhua) -- As Eid al-Adha, one of the most important festivals for Muslims, draws near, a palpable buzz fills the clothing stores and bustling markets across Egypt.
Soha Ahmed, navigating a busy street in Cairo's Nasr City district with her three children, said clothing prices were reasonable compared to previous years.
"There is a wide selection of clothing to suit most tastes," she told Xinhua, noting that "buying new clothes for Eid is a tradition in Egyptian life, as these clothes bring joy to children's hearts."
Despite the economic challenges in Egypt, an undercurrent of optimism runs through the streets. Shopkeepers notice an increase in the number of local residents seeking new garments to celebrate the upcoming festivities on June 6.
To cater to the diverse needs and budgets of a population navigating difficult living conditions this year, Egyptian clothing retailers are offering a wide range of options.
Numerous promotions and discounts have been rolled out, with some stores slashing prices by more than 30 percent. The Ready-Made Garments Division of the Cairo Chamber of Commerce confirmed this trend, noting that most stores have been offering discounts ranging from 10 to 30 percent since May 20.
"We began preparing our displays at the beginning of May, focusing on providing a diverse selection of clothing at prices that suit all classes," said Mahmoud Ragab, who owns a clothing store in Nasr City.
Ragab, who sells imported clothing from Türkiye and China alongside products from local manufacturers, said that demand is exceptionally strong this year, particularly from families eager to buy new outfits for their children for Eid.
"Eid is an important season for merchants, so most vendors offer great deals to attract customers, especially those with limited incomes," he affirmed.
Beyond traditional retail, the Egyptian government has stepped in with vital initiatives to ensure families have access to affordable Eid clothes and essential commodities.
The "We Are All One" initiative, launched by the Ministry of Interior on May 25 and running until the end of June across most Egyptian governorates, is an example.
This initiative aims to provide high-quality food and non-food items, including clothes, at discounts of up to 40 percent through approximately 2,633 outlets nationwide.
Hassan Abdullah, an employee at a private security company in Cairo, found solace in these government-run outlets.
"Prices are noticeably lower," he told Xinhua as he purchased new clothes for his two children, pointing out that he had seen similar items elsewhere at prices at least 20 percent higher.
For those looking for even more economical options, the booming market for imported used clothing provides an attractive alternative. Available in most markets, these stores offer quality garments at considerably lower prices.
Adel Assaad, a worker at a bakery, considers used clothing stores his go-to option due to their affordability and variety.
"It is the best option for my very limited income," Assaad said, adding "I rarely buy new clothes throughout the year. I buy clothes for entire family from used clothing stores, and not just for holidays."
"There is a strong demand for used clothing from a wide segment of the population, particularly those with limited budgets," said Faraj Hussein, manager of a used clothing store in Cairo.