The Thursday market in Douz is one of the most genuine souks in the south of Tunisia, drawing desert traders and Bedouin nomads from across the region. It operates in the early morning and is largely finished by midday. The main interest is the animal market — camels, donkeys, sheep, and goats — along with stalls selling spices, dates, traditional dress, and desert equipment.
The market is not primarily oriented toward tourists, which is part of what makes it worth attending. Dates are sold by the kilo from enormous piles and are significantly cheaper than in the northern cities. Wool blankets, knifeware, and embroidered fabrics are also sold at prices that reflect local rather than tourist demand.