Haggling is expected throughout Souq Waqif, so never accept the first price you're quoted. With a smile, suggest a sum that's slightly less than what you're willing to pay and see what the vendor's counteroffer is. If you can't agree, simply thank them and walk away: This can be a great bargaining tactic in itself.

In 2026, haggling is expected and considered part of the social fabric in traditional Qatari markets like Souq Waqif, but it is generally not done in modern shopping malls or high-end boutiques. When shopping for spices, perfumes, textiles, or gold in the souqs, a merchant will often give an initial price that is 20–30% higher than what they are willing to accept. The etiquette is to remain polite, smile, and ask for a "best price." It is not a confrontational process; it is a "gentle negotiation." A common tip in 2026 is to ask for a discount if you are buying multiple items or paying in cash (Qatari Riyals). However, once a price is agreed upon, it is considered poor form to walk away. In modern retailers like those in the Villaggio Mall or Place Vendôme, prices are fixed and barcodes are used, so attempting to haggle there would be seen as inappropriate. For high-ticket items like gold jewelry, the "gold price" is fixed by the daily market rate, but you can still negotiate the "craftsmanship" or "labor" fee associated with the piece.