The Watch Repairmen of Doha, Qatar
Briefly

Souk Waqif serves as a microcosm of Qatar's labor market, where immigrants make up nearly 90% of the emirate's population. Watch repairmen, immigrants primarily from South Asia, reflect the diverse skills these workers bring to the economy. Stories of individuals like Mohamed Fahim Shakoor, who embraced learning a new trade, highlight the determination and resilience of migrant workers. Store owners like Faris Hajazi emphasize the vital role that these workers play in maintaining not only luxury items but also cultural industries, showcasing an intricate link between tradition and modern economic demands.
The watch repairmen at Souk Waqif, mostly immigrants, are essential to maintaining both luxury timepieces and everyday watches, representing the backbone of Qatar's workforce.
Mohamed Fahim Shakoor, a repairman from Sri Lanka, emphasizes the importance of being willing to learn, highlighting how immigrant experiences shape skilled labor markets.
Faris Hajazi, owner of Taj Jewelers, underscores the contributions of immigrant workers, noting that they've built a community of skilled artisans over the years.
Amid the sounds of chiming clocks, immigrant workers like Shakoor demonstrate the blend of tradition and modernity that defines Qatar's vibrant Gold Souk.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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