Sharing History

Up to the 19th century, traditional societies throughout the region bought staples and commodities from local markets and fairs, artisans’ workshops, itinerant traders and – in larger towns and cities – suqs and bazaars, which housed numerous individually owned retail units under one roof. By the late 19th century, increasing industrialisation and the desire for affordable but high-quality European goods led to the emergence of modern retail shops and – in large cities – luxurious department stores. In the Middle East, these were often owned by non-Muslims and closely integrated within the local business infrastructure. Innovative in concept and management, they were nevertheless designed to cater effectively and sensitively for a culturally and ethnically diverse clientele. Due to their convenience and array of goods, department stores in particular often led to the demise of traditional retailers. They also caused a degree of social dissent as they enabled men and women to mingle uninhibitedly within their spaces.