Who we are
Let me tell you a story of resilience, determination and hope...
Many years ago, a young man named Mousa arrived in New Zealand with simply the clothes on his back, US$500 in his pocket and three English phrases to his name. This young man built a life for himself here in New Zealand, but he never forgot his Middle Eastern roots. A chef who prized quality and authenticity, Mousa founded ‘Sultan Spice’ in 2014 and began importing precious saffron and other spices.
A visit to a friend’s rug-making factory sparked a unique vision: beautiful Middle Eastern decor integrated into a Kiwi lifestyle. During regular trips back home to procure saffron, Mousa began sourcing traditional Persian rugs, stunning ceramic and copper homeware, vibrant bedding and throws, and ‘Market Sultan’ was born.
No good story is complete without a twist!
Now New Zealand began to stamp its mark on Market Sultan! Floor mats became throws and covers; small rugs were adapted for yoga and prayer; student flats took on a unique aesthetic with washable, non-slip modern designs.
We’ve come full circle. Mousa has visions for his retirement: friends and old customers coming to drink saffron tea in the sun while his son Arash works in the shop, stepping further into the leadership of Market Sultan each day.
This is a story with layers: multi-faceted, multi-dimensional… of seemingly incompatible values meshing and blending. It’s a story filled with colour – and it’s Our Story.
“The Faces Behind Market Sultan”
At Market Sultan, our team is a small but dedicated group working together to bring Middle Eastern heritage and craftsmanship into modern New Zealand homes. Leading the way is our CEO and two founders, who share a passion for quality and vision for growth. Behind the scenes, our Website Developer & Manager ensures a smooth and seamless online shopping experience, while our In-Store Manager provides personalised service and expertise to every customer who visits us. To keep our community connected and inspired, our Social Media Manager shares stories, style tips, and the beauty of our collections across digital platforms. Together, we combine tradition, technology, and customer care to create a unique Market Sultan experience.