Gazas upscale eateries face criticism over high prices and limited accessibility
May 2, 2026 • Al Jazeera
New Establishments Emerge in Gaza Amidst Devastation
A recent visit to Gaza City revealed a stark contrast between the city’s pre-war state and its current reality. The area is littered with rubble, making it difficult to recognize familiar streets. New cafes and restaurants have appeared, constructed with expensive materials and featuring luxurious amenities.
These establishments are not temporary or makeshift, but rather permanent fixtures in the devastated landscape. They offer a stark contrast to the surrounding environment, which is characterized by destruction and chaos. The owners of these businesses have reportedly profited from illicit activities during acute shortages, resulting in significant wealth disparities within Gaza’s population.
In stark contrast, the majority of Gaza’s residents are struggling to survive. Many live in tents with limited access to basic necessities like electricity, water, and food. The loss of livelihoods has left families without a stable income, forcing them to rely on meager aid from Israel.
A writer who recently visited Gaza City described their experience as “surreal.” They noted that the new establishments do not represent a return to normalcy but rather a testament to the ongoing genocidal abnormality in Gaza. The writer also shared their own experience of visiting a modest restaurant, where they were charged significantly more for basic items due to inflation.
The emergence of these new establishments highlights the deeply unjust social order that has emerged in Gaza. It underscores the stark contrast between those who have profited from the war and those who continue to suffer. The writer’s account serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where many residents are struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare.
Source: Al Jazeera