Tel Abta markets bustle with Eid shoppers despite war-driven price rises

NINEVEH — Residents of Tel Abta subdistrict in Nineveh are stocking up for Eid al-Fitr despite rising prices driven by the regional war, with the town’s market — which serves around 200 villages across Tel Abta, Hatra, Shura, Mahalabiya, Tal Afar and Baaj — seeing stronger buying activity than in previous Ramadan seasons.

“Shops open from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m., with a noticeable increase in buying and selling compared to Ramadan in previous years,” said local resident Khudr Luwaizi. Demand has centered on Gulf-style summer clothing, with new dishdashas priced between 15,000 and 35,000 dinars ($10 to $22) and second-hand items selling for around 10,000 dinars ($6). Food products brought in from Mosul are also moving well, according to vendors.

“Demand for Gulf-style summer wear from both young people and older customers increases during Eid,” said clothing shop owner Anwar al-Hadidi.

The war’s economic impact is being felt at the till. “The war in the region has raised the dollar exchange rate, which has increased the prices of goods and affected buying and selling,” said vendor Ayman Hamid.

Iraq’s government announced a six-day public holiday beginning March 18 to mark Eid al-Fitr, which falls this year amid the eighth consecutive extension of the country’s airspace closure and widespread disruption to trade and travel.