The Prices of Sweets Change the Eid Hospitality Rituals in Daraa
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, rising sweet prices in Daraa compel residents to seek cheaper alternatives, reviving the traditional sweet 'rawha' as a popular choice.
With Eid al-Fitr on the horizon, the hospitality customs in Daraa Governorate are shifting due to the increasing prices of sweets. Many residents are actively searching for affordable alternatives, prompting a resurgence of the traditional sweet known as 'rawha'. This sweet not only maintains its cultural significance but also offers economic relief amid the soaring costs of other festive confections.
Industry professionals, such as Abdul Rahman Abu Zriq, who owns a local sweet factory, report unprecedented demand for 'rawha' as families opt for this option due to its lower price compared to upscale sweets. For instance, the price of a kilogram of 'rawha', stuffed with nuts, is around 50,000 Syrian pounds (approximately 4 USD), whereas luxury sweets can range from 250,000 to 300,000 Syrian pounds (20 to 24 USD). This substantial price difference makes 'rawha' an attractive choice for a wide segment of the population.
To accommodate the increasing popularity, Abu Zriq has ramped up his production from one or two batches a day to six, each yielding 125 kilograms of sweets. The changes in consumer preferences not only reflect the economic pressures faced by families in Daraa but also highlight a shift towards preserving local traditions while adapting to modern financial realities.