REEM AL BURAIKI (ABU DHABI)
Fabric stores in Abu Dhabi have witnessed a remarkable rise in demand with the arrival of winter and the approach of Christmas and New Year amid a boom in tourism in the capital, according to sales managers. In remarks to Aletihad, sales managers said that the arrival of tourist groups to Abu Dhabi in conjunction with the nation’s national holidays and related events have led to a rise in footfall in textile stores.
Mohammad Al Jabri, a sales manager at a textile store, said that demand has been on the rise over the past few days, especially from tourist groups visiting Abu Dhabi, in addition to residents with the approach of Christmas and New Year.
Silk, cotton and chiffon topped the sales in specialised stores, he said, stressing that markets in Abu Dhabi are known for their diverse collections from across the world, including Italian, Swiss, Indian and Chinese fabrics, with prices commensurating with consumers’ needs and choice.
Ahmed Hussein, another sales manager at a fabric store, noted that the demand has grown significantly for button-down apparels and pieces with beaded designs that are suitable for weddings, parties, and various social occasions. “Satin, silk, and heavy cotton fabrics also witnessed demand with the onset of winter. Tourists coming from Europe and Asia prefer to buy the pieces sold here due to the uniqueness of the fabrics and their distinctiveness in design, in addition to the quality of what is offered in the Emirati market,” he added.
Fatima Al Balushi, a customer, said: ‘’I deliberately go two or three times to the fabric market in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain to see what is on offer. I prefer to buy fabrics during discount seasons.” She also noted that Emirati embroidery designs have witnessed an increase in demand in Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.