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Fashion, algiers
Your Thrifting Guide from Riyadh to Rabat
Text Zein Karam
In honour of the thrill that is copping unique gems in the souqs and secondhand boutiques scattered across our region, we’ve put together a guide to the ever-giving thrift markets across MENA. Whether you’re after vintage jewellery, artisanal clothing, quirky finds from eras past, or simply trying to keep that +1000 aura under 100% inflation, our guide celebrates the cities where thrift culture thrives, and one-off pieces await.
Souq Al Ahad, Beirut
Souq Al Ahad, or the ‘Sunday market’, is one of the best places in Lebanon to find all sorts of vintage jewellery and quirky, eccentric garms. With a footfall of about thirty-five thousand visitors daily, this market is home to everything from contemporary fashion to traditional Lebanese designs, the kind you could only find in your mother’s drawers.
New Haraj Market, Riyadh
Riyadh’s new Haraj Market is quickly becoming a hotspot for thrift lovers and vintage seekers in the city. This expansive market offers an eclectic mix of secondhand treasures. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the market is a blend of old and new, with traditional items reflecting Saudi heritage alongside finds from various eras. Perfect for collectors, Haraj Market is a must-visit if you’re looking to score unique items with character—all while supporting a more sustainable approach to shopping.
Souq Dallas, Casablanca
Located in Sidi Moumen and named after the state capital of Texas, Souq Dallas is where you go if you want to shop like a local. In addition to secondhand goods, Souq Dallas is known for its imported goods, making it a favourite among Casablanca’s locals.
Souq Al Khamis, Marrakech
Souq el Khamis is a treasure trove of Moroccan pottery and carpets, vintage clothing and jewellery. With rows of stalls as far as the eye can see, you’ll never see the same thing twice. The market’s energy is nothing short of vibrant bordering on chaotic and it is located just outside Marrakesh’s city centre, making it an ideal to spend a bountiful Thursday.
Al Harrach, Algiers
El Harrach, a suburb of Algiers, is known for its thrift and flea markets, which attract locals and visitors alike. One of the most popular spots is the El Harrach Flea Market, where you can find an the perfect mix of secondhand clothes, vintage accessories, furniture, and more. This market is famous for its affordable prices and diverse selection, making it a go-to destination if you’re ever in the Algerian capital.
Hay Ez-Zouhour, Tunis
The neighbourhood offers a variety of amenities, from traditional cafes and food stalls to shops that sell clothing, electronics, and household goods at affordable prices. It is also known for its strong sense of community, with local events, social gatherings, and markets that regularly bring people together.
Souq Al Jomaa, Amman
Visiting Souq Al Jomaa in Amman is a lively and immersive experience that captures the essence of local culture and commerce. This market operates every Friday, drawing a diverse crowd of shoppers eager to explore its vibrant offerings. As you enter the souq, you’re greeted by the sounds of haggling voices and the enticing aromas of street food. The market is the perfect place for all your thrifting needs, especially if you’re a keen advocate for Y2K styles. Loud prints and textures that we loved to see on our 2000s divas can be all yours.
Wekala, Cairo
Arguably one of the best thrift markets in the region, according to all who visit. Located in the bustling Bulaq neighbourhood, Wekala has a long history as a trade centre, originally dealing in textiles and other goods brought by traders along the Nile. Today, it’s a priority destination for locals and visitors seeking secondhand pieces at prices that are too good to be true. The market is known for its rows of shops and street vendors offering everything from branded second-hand jeans, jackets, and T-shirts to formal wear, shoes, and accessories.