The Ministry of Commerce and Industry signed, on Sunday, 22 February 2026, a contract with Hassad Food Company for the management, operation, and service delivery of the central markets. The agreement reflects the continued cooperation between the two entities to regulate the central markets and enhance service efficiency, contributing to an improved working environment, higher-quality services for traders and consumers, and strengthened food security in the State.

The contract was signed by H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Hassan Al Malki, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Eng. Ali Hilal Al Kuwari, Chief Executive Officer of Hassad Food.

This step forms part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to develop the management and operation of its facilities in line with best practices, reinforce public–private partnerships, optimize the use of public assets, enhance operational performance, and ensure the sustainability of the central markets.

Through this agreement, work mechanisms within the markets will be further organized, operational and maintenance standards upgraded, and service quality elevated. The contract also ensures compliance with health and technical requirements, facilitates smoother commercial activity, safeguards stakeholders, and supports market stability and product diversity.

Under the terms of the contract, Hassad Food will assume responsibility for organizing the markets, including their management, operation, and service provision.

The three central markets represent integrated marketing platforms established to serve traders and consumers alike, contributing to the stability of the local market. They include:

Al Sailiya Central Market
An integrated marketing hub spanning approximately 78,000 square meters. The fully connected and air-conditioned complex includes the traditional market, retail and wholesale sections, an auction yard, fish, meat and poultry shops, a hypermarket, and a range of supporting services.

Al Wakra Central Market
Developed according to the latest international standards, the market covers around 230,000 square meters and is strategically located at the intersection of major modern road networks. It features covered livestock barns, an automated abattoir, supporting facilities for the livestock sector, fruit and vegetable shops, Souq Al Janoub (in partnership with the private sector), and various additional services.

Umm Salal Central Market
Extending over 60,000 square meters, this market occupies a prime location at the junction of key highways (Al Majd Road and North Road), directly linking it to major ports in Al Wakra, Al Ruwais, Al Khor, and Doha. The market includes a fish market, auction yard, livestock barns, a public abattoir, a local produce yard (Farmers’ Yard), shops selling vegetables, fruits and dates, as well as cold storage facilities, a supermarket, a mosque, and administrative offices.

The agreement reaffirms the Ministry’s commitment to adopting modern management solutions that enhance operational efficiency and respond to evolving economic dynamics, thereby fostering a competitive and sustainable commercial environment that supports national development.