Tourist landmark tarnished: Fish market’s stench alarms shoppers and merchants
Heritage at risk, visitors demand solution to Al-Mubarakiya Market smell, odor sparks calls for urgent action, smell is overwhelming
Given the persistent odor from the fish market in Al-Mubarakiya, concerns are mounting once again. Residents, shop owners, and visitors are urging authorities to take decisive action, citing the negative impact on one of Kuwait’s oldest heritage areas and key tourist attractions.
Despite efforts by neighboring shops to mask the smell with perfumes or incense, the pungent odor continues to dominate the area, rendering many market stalls unused and deterring visitors.
Gulf tourists who frequent the market have expressed their disappointment, describing the experience as unpleasant and calling for either relocation of the market or a permanent solution to neutralize the odors.
Visitors report that the stench not only disrupts their visits but also interferes with local businesses. Some allege the smell has caused significant financial losses for shops adjacent to the market and raised health concerns, including respiratory discomfort.
Retired Lieutenant General Thabet Al-Muhanna noted that while the fish market was historically significant, urban development and the opening of new markets elsewhere have reduced its relevance.
“The market now relies on imported fish, losing its distinctive charm, leaving only its overpowering smell,” he said. He suggested that if relocation is not feasible, installing advanced air purification systems and improving sanitation could mitigate the issue.
Shop owners and citizens alike stress that the current situation is incompatible with Al-Mubarakiya’s status as a cultural and commercial landmark.
“The mixture of fish odors with perfumes and clothing stores is unfair to both merchants and visitors,” noted a local resident, emphasizing that immediate intervention is essential to restore the market’s heritage spirit.
