Al-Duluiya market: a historic hub of commerce and community in Salah Al-Din

SALAH AL-DIN– Established in 1964 with just five small shops selling fabrics, groceries, herbs, and flour, the Al-Duluiya market, in Salah Al-Din’s Al-Duluiya area, has grown into a bustling hub with over 400 stores stretching along the town’s main road, from Wadi al-Mawt to the wooden bridge.

Known locally as the ‘Shorja of Salah al-Din’ due to its affordable prices, the market attracts shoppers from neighboring areas such as Bishkan, Al-Jubour, Al-Hoor, Al-Mashrou, and outskirts of Samarra, including Al-Mu’tasim, Banat Al-Hassan, and Al-Hardaneya.

Waleed Abdul-Razzaq, an herbalist and long-time vendor, spoke to 964media about the market’s origins, “The Al-Duluiya market was established in 1964 with only five shops specializing in groceries, fabrics, herbs, and a flour agency. Its central location made it a convenient destination for customers from nearby villages and towns.”

Abdul-Razzaq took over his father’s shop after his passing and has focused on selling herbs since 1994. He recalls a conversation with a teacher from outside the town, “She told me: Your prices are low, and your treatment of customers is excellent.’”

Saadoun Hassani, a blacksmith, highlighted the market’s transformation after 2003, “The Al-Duluiya market has seen significant development since its founding. Initially, there were only a handful of small shops. After 2003, the number of shops grew rapidly, and the establishment of an industrial district attracted even more blacksmiths and traders.”

He added, “Many customers visit from outside Al-Duluiya, and we occasionally import goods from other cities to meet market demand.”

Awad Madhar, the district administrator of Al-Duluiya, emphasized the historical significance of the market, “In its early days, the market was scattered across different parts of Al-Duluiya, which was then part of the rural areas of the Samarra district. Residents heavily relied on markets in Balad and Samarra for their needs.”

He continued, “By the 1980s, population growth led to the market’s expansion, transforming it into a primary commercial center. Today, thanks to improved security and continuous efforts by local authorities, the market thrives with increasing commercial activity and a growing number of shops and businesses.”