Doha, Qatar – The 7th Souq Waqif International Honey Exhibition opened Thursday, drawing large crowds to the Eastern Square to sample and purchase a diverse range of honey and bee-related products from over 100 companies representing 20 countries. The annual event, organized by the Private Engineering Office, will run until January 31st, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the world of apiculture and its offerings.
The exhibition features not only various types of honey but also over 50 products derived from bees, including propolis, beeswax, pollen, and royal jelly. Daily opening hours are 9am to 12 noon and 4pm to 9pm, providing ample time for residents and tourists alike to experience the event.
Ensuring Quality and Authenticity in the Honey Market
A key focus of this year’s exhibition is quality control and public health. Khaled Saif Al-Suwaidi, General Supervisor of the exhibition, emphasized that rigorous measures are in place to guarantee the safety and authenticity of all products on display. According to Al-Suwaidi, a permanent laboratory is operating within the exhibition grounds to conduct thorough testing.
Additionally, the Ministry of Municipality and the Ministry of Public Health are actively involved, performing random sampling and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. This commitment to quality aims to reassure consumers about the value and safety of honey, a food product widely consumed across all age groups.
Diverse Offerings and International Participation
The exhibition showcases a wide array of honey varieties, from popular choices like sidr, manuka, and jabaly, to more common types such as acacia, wildflower, clover, and eucalyptus. Flavored options, including walnut, ginger, zaatar, and herbal blends, are also available.
Participants include local Qatari honey farms, exhibitors from across the GCC region, and international sellers from countries including Oman, the UAE, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Bosnia, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Libya, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. This international presence highlights the global appeal and diverse production methods of honey.
Visitors expressed enthusiasm for the variety and educational opportunities. Mohamed, a Canadian traveler in transit through Doha, noted the exhibition allowed him to taste numerous types of honey and purchase gifts. Aysum, a visitor from Kazakhstan, stated she gained valuable knowledge about different honey types from the exhibitors.
Health and Wellness Focus
Beyond commercial displays, the exhibition also prioritizes visitor well-being. A dedicated doctor is available on-site to provide consultations and treatment related to bee stings or alternative therapies utilizing honey and bee products. This service underscores the potential health benefits associated with apitherapy and natural remedies.
Local exhibitor Nada, representing a farm in Al Shahaniya, offers organic honey with flavors like sidr, ginger, and walnut, priced between QR80 and QR400 depending on the size. Her participation reflects the growing interest in locally sourced, natural products.
The Souq Waqif International Honey Exhibition has become a highly anticipated seasonal event, attracting a diverse audience seeking quality, variety, and the health benefits of honey. As the exhibition continues through January 31st, organizers will assess visitor feedback and participation levels to inform planning for the 2027 event. Future iterations may explore expanded educational components and increased collaboration with international apiculture organizations.