Last-Minute Eid Shopping Frenzy Grips Dhaka’s Markets

After sunset, the streets of Dhaka become especially crowded, with many realizing they still need to buy a few items despite completing most of their shopping.

Aira Mumtaha, a resident of Shantinagar, was at Mouchak Market buying a pair of earrings to match her dress. "I thought I had finished all my shopping, but I forgot the earrings," she said, navigating through the busy market. "I came out after Iftar thinking it wouldn’t be crowded, but it’s packed."

Parveen Akhter, traveling from Motijheel to Anarkali Shopping Centre, was shopping for a lighter outfit for her daughter. "I bought a dress for her earlier in Ramadan when it was cooler, but with this heat, I need to find something lighter," she explained.

Shopkeepers across the city are seeing an overwhelming turnout of shoppers, many of whom anticipated a quieter evening but were surprised by the bustling crowd. Sabbir, a jewellery vendor at City Gold in Mouchak, noted a strong demand for small accessories like earrings, rings, and nose pins. "Customers are matching their jewellery with their outfits," he said.

Shibli, another vendor, pointed out a surge in sales for household essentials like towels, tissues, and bedsheets. "It’s not just clothes—people are stocking up on things for the home," he said.

The festive atmosphere is also felt in shopping centres, where women queue for traditional henna applications. Sumaiya, waiting for her turn, shared, "The rush has been intense since evening, and many will still be getting their henna done by midnight."

To accommodate the late-night shoppers, many markets are staying open until 2:00–2:30 am.

Meanwhile, Dhaka's footpaths are crowded with male shoppers making last-minute purchases. Shamim, buying jeans from a street vendor in Rampura, said, "I have a night bus to catch, but my younger brother called and asked me to bring him jeans and a shirt."

Liton, another shopper, explained his approach to Eid shopping. "I always wait until everyone else is done before I buy something for myself. I don’t have enough left for branded clothes, so I’m getting a good-quality shirt from a street vendor."

Arman, who couldn’t find his size at shopping malls, turned to street vendors. "I’ve been to Bashundhara and Jamuna shopping centres for two days but couldn’t find the right size. So, I’m here now."

For small traders, Eid eve is a crucial time. Mintu, a street vendor on Badda Link Road, shared, "This is the big day for footpath vendors. Last Eid, I sold shirts and trousers worth Tk 50,000 on Chand Raat, and sales are strong again this time."

As Dhaka's residents make their final purchases to look their best for Eid, vendors are eager to maximize profits before heading home to celebrate with their families.