souks

A souk, or souq, is a marketplace commonly found in Arab, North African, and Middle Eastern cities. The term derives from the Arabic word suq, meaning market. In many places a souk forms part of a historic medina and consists of narrow lanes lined with stalls and shops selling specialized goods.

Souks have medieval origins and developed around caravan routes and trading hubs. They are often organized into quarters or streets grouped by product, and they may cluster near mosques, caravanserais, or public squares. The architecture typically features arches, courtyards, and covered passages designed to protect shoppers from heat and dust. Family ownership and long trading lineages are common in traditional souks.

Commerce in a souk covers a wide range of goods. Typical offerings include spices, textiles, carpets, leather goods, metalwork and jewelry, pottery, ceramics, perfumes, and traditional crafts. In addition to everyday items, many souks host specialized markets such as spice halls, gold or silver districts, and textile quarters. While some goods are produced locally, others are imported, reflecting regional trade networks.

Bargaining and negotiation are common practices, with prices often open to haggling. Some sections of modernized souks maintain fixed prices or offer tourist-oriented shops, but traditional stalls usually expect price discussion. Souks serve both local residents for daily shopping and visitors seeking cultural experiences and crafts. Notable examples include spice and fabric districts in historic cities, as well as vibrant markets in places like Cairo, Fez, Marrakech, and Dubai. Modern development has added entrances, security, and regulated hours while preserving traditional trading customs in many areas.