Queen Rania Pays Surprise Visit to Downtown Market

(Jordan Times – Press Department – Amman) - Her Majesty Queen Rania on Tuesday paid a surprise visit downtown to get a firsthand idea about Ramadan markets and check on the welfare of citizens during the holy month.

During yesterday’s visit, Queen Rania toured Souq Al Sukkar, one of the oldest markets in the capital, where a variety of merchandise is for sale.

Jordanians from all walks of life usually converge on this market due to its central location, varied fare and moderate prices.

The souq includes a popular fruit market where many Amman residents shop, seeking good bargains and fair prices.

While walking through the market’s old streets, the Queen listened to salespeople and shoppers’ comments on the demand for various items during the fasting month.

They also expressed their views about prices at the souq.

The Sukkar market, which extends from the centre of downtown to a street near Al Husseini Mosque, houses several shops and stalls, some of which have been there since the 1940s.

The store owners have preserved the souq’s traditional features and their shops continue to hold special importance since they are specialised in wholesale, providing items to different retailers across the capital.

The Queen’s visit to the souq is in line with her efforts to keep in touch with local communities during the holy month of Ramadan and to ensure that these markets are receiving adequate attention to preserve their identity and business climate.

Queen Rania speaks with shoppers at Souq Al Sukkar
Amman, Jordan