Dubai Duty Free report astronomical sales figures of AED4.1 billion in the first half of 2025, establishing a new record.
In an impressive display of growth, Dubai Duty Free reported a record-breaking first-half performance for 2025, generating AED 4.118 billion (US$1.128 billion) in sales. This figure marks a 5.34% increase year-on-year and surpasses the previous half-year record.
The surge in sales can be attributed to increased travel during the Eid holiday and early summer season, resulting in a significant boost in passenger numbers. This trend was reflected in the retailer's sales data, with strong growth reported across all key passenger regions.
Ramesh Cidambi, the Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, attributed the success to the strength of Dubai's global hub status and the team's operational efforts. He further noted that the retailer's strategy to enhance its luxury offerings, including plans for new boutiques, also played a crucial role in driving sales.
Perfumes emerged as the top-selling category, contributing 18% of total revenue at AED 744.24 million. This represents a 5% increase over the previous year. Liquor followed as the second top-selling category, achieving sales of AED 513.37 million.
The sales of cigarettes and tobacco saw a significant 12.24% year-on-year increase, amounting to AED 439.91 million. Gold sales also showed a healthy growth of 6.14%, with sales totalling AED 416.90 million.
Confectionery recorded a standout 62.7% jump year-on-year, with sales of AED 412.52 million, accounting for 10% of total revenue. This category saw particularly strong growth in April, May, and early June.
Looking ahead, luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Cartier are set to open new boutiques in Terminal 3 Concourse A later this year. These additions are expected to further bolster Dubai Duty Free's position as a premier retail destination for luxury goods.
Terminal 3 witnessed a 6.37% increase in sales, while Terminal 1 experienced a 5.25% growth. This growth across both terminals underscores the robustness of Dubai Duty Free's business model and its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
In Europe, spending increased by a significant 16.89%, reflecting the strong appeal of Dubai as a shopping destination for travellers from the continent.
As Dubai continues to cement its status as a global hub for travel and commerce, Dubai Duty Free's impressive first-half performance serves as a testament to the city's enduring allure and the retailer's strategic approach to meeting the needs of its diverse customer base.
The substantial increase in Dubai Duty Free's sales can be attributed to the strong lifestyle factors such as the increased travel during the Eid holiday and early summer season, as well as the continuous expansion in business sectors like luxury offerings. The company's strategy to enhance its luxury offerings, including plans for new boutiques, played a crucial role in driving sales, as evidenced by the recent opening of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Cartier boutiques in Terminal 3 Concourse A.
