JEDDAH, 1 December 2005 — There exists a small store on Al-Kayal Street in Jeddah’s Al-Rawdah district that, according to its owner, “caters to all your bedroom needs.”
When you walk into Harakat, the first thing you see is a large collection of undergarments, including boxer shorts and lingerie. Nothing unusual in that, as there are other stores all over the Kingdom selling such apparel. However, when one takes a closer look, particularly in one corner of the small store, one may be just a little surprised or even shocked by some of the items for sale.
Flavored body toppings and fantasy fragrances are perhaps the most popular item; indeed while Arab News was in the shop, one man bought at least two bags of small finger-sized dispensers flavored with caramel and strawberry. Next to those and in the same corner, there are leather outfits.
There are also temporary body tattoos whose message indicates that the wearer would like certain things. Even the boxers have humorous messages and drawings displayed across the front and back. The G-strings are too small to put a lengthy message on, but they are adorned by small diamond-like decorations or a single word such as, “Hustler”. There are also other items available for sale that are not displayed, but are kept off the property for those wishing to place an order. According to Harakat’s owner, one kit contains six different liquids that can stimulate and help newly-weds with their first marital experience.
Harakat has been open for almost a year and has done good business. The owner explains: “There is nothing that I sell here is illegal or that is contrary to the Shariah. This is a family store that caters to the various needs of married couples. What I sell here is not against the law.”
Harakat is a division of Tarsam, which has been open since 1984.
