Anyone who frequents Rua 25 de Março has certainly passed by Doural, one of São Paulo’s most traditional stores. Founded in 1905 by Syrian immigrants Assad Abdalla and Nagib Salem, it is one of the few century-old businesses that have modernized without losing their roots.
Located at the same address since its founding, the store is the oldest still in operation in Latin America’s largest shopping center. Its yellow mansion currently houses home goods catering to all budgets, from the most affordable to luxury items.
The Abdalla family’s history and their legacy on 25 de Março
The patriarch of Doural, Assad Abdalla, was born in 1870 in Homs, Syria. Upon arriving in São Paulo, he worked as a peddler until he had saved enough money to open his store on the corner of Rua 25 de Março and Ladeira Porto Geral, at what is now number 595.
Like other Syrian-Lebanese establishments of the time, the store initially sold fabrics and haberdashery. Over the years, however, the company expanded its catalog to include home goods, such as kitchenware, decorations, curtains, and rugs.
Assad made a point of passing down his knowledge from generation to generation, all the way to his great-grandchildren. Thus, the company remains under the care of the Abdalla family to this day, modernizing sales through e-commerce without sacrificing tradition.
As a matter of interest, the founder’s wife, Corgie Assad Abdalla, was a great philanthropist. For her social work, she was honored by having a street named after her in the Morumbi neighborhood.
Why visit Loja Doural?
Today, Doural sells 60,000 different items, ranging from everyday items to high-end rugs and fine porcelain. It is a place where you can find practically everything for the home, making it a must-visit destination for both its historical and commercial significance.
Currently, there are two other branches in the city, located in Jardins and Vila Guilherme. For those passionate about history and urban culture, however, the store on Rua 25 de Março is a must-see, as it shows how commerce is constantly evolving in dialogue with the city.
📍 Rua 25 de Março, 595 – Historic Center
🕐 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
📖 More information at @lojasdoural or doural.com.br
