From Msheireb to Mansoura: workers change their hangout spot

It looks like Mansoura is turning out to be the new hotspot for the “single” workers to visit.

 Most of the low income foreign workers used to frequent the National area, Msheireb quite a lot. However, now, the throng of workers have changed direction towards Mansoura and its neighbouring city, Ibn Dirham.

There are different reasons for this sudden change in preference. However, the ongoing demolishment and development projects in Msheireb can be considered as the principle reason.

Also, when most of the money exchanges moved to Mansoura from Msheireb, the workers invariably had to lean towards Mansoura.

Now, if you’re a trader in Mansoura then things must be looking well for you. For, the commercial and retail activities in the area are reported to be flourishing due to the workers retreating to Mansoura during their free time.

In fact, many new shops and eateries have begun to come up in the area. According to Gulf Times, expats from a certain South Asian country have opened around five restaurants this year alone in Ibn Dirham.

Also, the money exchanges too have begun to notice a big difference in the number of their customers. One in particular claims that there has been quite a hike in their weekday consumers since their move to Mansoura.

There also is a talk that a new money exchange might come up in the area.

Mansoura and Ibn Dirham are gradually transforming into bustling places like Najma, another famous hangout for single workers in Qatar.

An expatriate who often visits Mansoura has said in the Gulf Times, “We used to visit the old National area earlier but stopped going there a few months ago. Now, we prefer visiting Mansoura, particularly the Ibn Dirham neighbourhood, as it has most of the things that we require. It also feels less congested than Msheireb and the traffic is smoother”.

Any thoughts?

Photograph by Jayan Orma