A Quiet Ramadan: Tailors and Hotels Feel the Economic Strain

TDT | Manama

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Tailors and restaurants among the worst hit by the economic impact following the current geopolitical tension. For most other sectors, especially corporates, Ramadan is usually a slow period on its own. But for tailors, it is quite the opposite. Ramadan is supposed to be a thriving, busy season for them. 

Up until the last week of February, tailors had their hands full, which is normal for this time of year. However, the missile attacks that began on February 28 saw a sudden change in the atmosphere across the Gulf nations. What was expected to be a buzzing season turned out to be one of the worst.

“This has been the worst Ramadan I have seen in years in terms of business. Even COVID had an impact on our business, but not to this extent. The last 10 days of Ramadan are usually the busiest, however the number of orders has dropped sharply since the beginning of the conflict. We just hope things get back to normal at the earliest,” a local tailor told TDT.

As for restaurants, Ramadan comes with its own challenges, as most outlets remain shut during the day. However, the nights, with their iftar and ghabga culture, usually make up for it. With many people coping with the new normal, nighttime outings and Ramadan gatherings have declined sharply.

Footfall has dropped significantly over the last 10 days, while high-end hotels and their ghabga business have also taken a severe hit since the beginning of the month.