Rehabilitation of Commercial Shopfronts and Entrances in the Eastern Market, Old City of Nablus – Phase I

Nablus - In early August 2025, the Old Cities Revitalization Program at Taawon (Welfare Association) launched the implementation of the first phase of the rehabilitation project for commercial shopfronts in the Eastern Market area of the Old City of Nablus. The current phase targets approximately 52 shops, with a total cost of around USD 280,000, funded by the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development.

The Eastern Market (Souq Al-Sharqi) is located on the eastern side of the Old City of Nablus and serves as its eastern gateway. It forms an integral part of the city’s historic and urban fabric and hosts more than 130 commercial shops, many of which date back to the Ottoman period. The market is distinguished by its unique architectural character, where commercial shops coexist alongside historic structures such as residential houses, palaces, mosques, and traditional courtyard complexes (hosh). Over the centuries, the market has functioned as a vital economic and social hub, linking historic neighborhoods and supporting commercial activity throughout the Old City.

Today, the Eastern Market remains a vibrant commercial center and an important witness to Nablus’s rich urban history, reflecting the living heritage of the Old City where historical character and active commercial life continue to coexist.

Works being implemented during the current phase include rehabilitation of shop facades, walls, and entrances, reinforcement of surrounding building facades, and the replacement of external shop awnings and signage with new, coordinated elements. These interventions aim to improve the overall visual appearance of the market, attract visitors and shoppers from across Nablus, and contribute to strengthening the local economy.

The launch of the Eastern Market rehabilitation project was officially announced by the Municipality of Nablus during a dedicated press conference highlighting the importance of the project. The event was attended by Dr. Samir Jaradat, Advisor to the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, Dr. Hossam Shakhsheer, Mayor of Nablus, members of the municipal council, and representatives from Taawon, who presented the project’s objectives and implementation phases.