Grocery store
Afghan Halal Supermarket, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is more than just a grocery store—it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and cultural preservation. Founded by Ahmad Tamim Sahel, an Afghan immigrant who came to the United States in 2017, the store was born from his desire to serve the growing Afghan population in the area. With over 700 Afghan families now living in central Iowa, the supermarket offers a place where they can find familiar products and ingredients that reflect their culture and values, especially halal-certified foods that meet religious dietary needs.
Inside the store, shoppers find a wide variety of items—from halal meats, dry fruits, spices, and teas to Turkish rugs, seating cushions, and traditional kitchenware. The welcoming and organized space is designed to make customers feel at home. But what truly sets the supermarket apart is the spirit behind it. Ahmad is known not just for running the store, but for his generous work within the community. He personally helps new Afghan arrivals navigate life in Iowa, assists with errands and food deliveries, and offers guidance to those going through the immigration or asylum process.
Ahmad’s vision for the future doesn’t stop with the supermarket. He’s working to open a halal bakery and hopes to establish a mosque and community center where Afghan families can gather for prayer, events, and support. Afghan Halal Supermarket stands today as a beacon of entrepreneurship and community-building—where culture is not only preserved but celebrated with compassion and pride.
October, 2025
Thursday
7:30 pm - 8:15 pm
August 26,2019
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