01/12/2025
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01/12/2025
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KUWAIT CITY, Dec 1: Two months after it was reported on the overpowering stench surrounding the fish market in Kuwait’s historic Al-Mubarakiya district, public frustration has resurfaced with renewed urgency. Visitors, merchants, and municipal officials are once again appealing for decisive action, saying the market’s increasingly foul odors are undermining one of Kuwait’s most cherished heritage and tourism sites.
Despite attempts by nearby shopkeepers to mask the smell with perfumes or incense, the strong fish odor continues to drift through the market’s narrow passages, discouraging shoppers and damaging the surrounding commercial area's reputation. Many stalls in the fish section now sit abandoned, adding to the perception that the market is no longer economically viable. At the same time, its lingering smell continues to affect both businesses and visitors.
Visitors: “A beautiful landmark is being spoiled.”
A tour through Al-Mubarakiya revealed growing concern among citizens and Gulf visitors alike. Emirati visitor Mohammed Al-Jasmi described passing near the market as “a difficult task,” saying he often resorts to wearing a mask to avoid the pungent odor. “The market should either be removed or its smells treated,” he said. “This landmark deserves better.”
Omani visitor Ahmed Al-Farsi, a regular at Al-Mubarakiya, said he deliberately avoids certain walkways to prevent the fish smell from clinging to his clothes. “People now take other routes just to avoid passing the market,” he noted, adding that its presence distorts the overall appearance of the historic district.
Retired Lieutenant General Thabet Al-Muhanna echoed these concerns, stating that the market has lost its purpose and identity. “What remains of its memory is its unpleasant odor,” he said. He suggested relocating the market or, if relocation is delayed, installing advanced air purification systems and improving sanitation.
Merchants: “The smell is driving customers away.”
Shop owners near the market say the odors have caused significant financial harm. Vendor Yousef Daher Ali explained that the smell forces customers to leave before even browsing. “I suffer from sinusitis from breathing this smell all day, especially during the summer,” he added.
Citizen Umm Ali questioned the logic of placing a fish market among perfume and clothing shops. “What customer buys fish and then walks around carrying their bags between stores?” she asked, calling the situation unfair to shopkeepers and visitors alike.
Another visitor, Ahmed Al-Azmi, lamented that the unpleasant smell has diminished his enjoyment of the historic souq. “A suitable alternative must be found,” he said.
Citizen Ahmed Al-Ansari added that daily washing inside the market creates puddles, slippery flooring, and accumulated dirt—conditions he described as unbefitting a national heritage site.
Officials: The fish market’s role is outdated
Dr. Hassan Kamal, head of the Capital Governorate Committee in the Municipal Council, said the fish market played an important role decades ago, when Al-Mubarakiya hosted all essential food markets. However, the need has diminished with the establishment of modern, specialized markets in Sharq, Fahaheel, and other governorates.
He noted that weak ventilation in the current facility exacerbates the odor problem, particularly in summer, while saltwater exposure accelerates infrastructure deterioration and maintenance costs. Dr. Kamal suggested replacing the existing stall system with enclosed fish shops equipped with efficient cooling and ventilation to ensure higher cleanliness and reduced smells.
Fishermen’s Union: Relocation is the logical solution
Abdullah Al-Sarheed, head of the fishermen’s union, said relocating the market is “a necessity” to preserve the beauty and reputation of Al-Mubarakiya. He stressed that the current market sells only imported fish and hosts no auctions, while Sharq offers a wider variety and better services.
Al-Sarheed recommended relocating the market to the dedicated, fully serviced facility in the Al-Rai area or another site outside the heritage district. He noted that dozens of stalls in Al-Mubarakiya now sit empty, reflecting the sharp decline in demand.
