Dubai Duty Free reported a record-breaking revenue of Dh4.118 billion ($1.12 billion) for the first half of 2025, marking a 5.34% year-on-year increase. This performance surpasses the previous half-year record by nearly Dh209 million ($57 million), underlining strong travel demand through Dubai International Airport and the retailer’s expanding luxury offering.
Sales Boosted by Travel Season and Passenger Spending
Sales momentum was especially strong in April, May, and early June, driven by Eid holiday travel and the early summer vacation season.“We are very pleased with our record performance for the first half of 2025,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free in a public statement. “The spend per passenger is likely to be better than last year. This performance is a testament to our team’s hard work and the strength of Dubai as a global travel hub.”
Top-Performing Product Categories in H1 2025
Dubai Duty Free’s top five sales categories remained consistent, with notable growth across most segments:
- Perfumes: Dh744.24 million ($203 million; 18% of total revenue, up 5%)
- Beverages: Dh513.37 million ($140 million)
- Cigarettes & Tobacco: Dh439.91 million ($120 million; up 12.24%)
- Gold: Dh416.90 million ($114 million; 10.12% of total revenue, up 6.14%)
- Confectionery: Dh412.52 million ($112 million; up 62.70%, accounting for 10% of revenue)
Other highlights:
- Cosmetics: Dh201.51 million ($55 million; up 3.36%, 4.89% of revenue)
Terminal and Regional Sales Growth
Sales across terminals saw significant gains:
- Terminal 3: +6.37%
- Terminal 1: +5.25%
Positive growth was recorded across major passenger regions:
- Europe: +16.89%
- Middle East: +8.15%
- Russia: +4.41%
- Indian Subcontinent: +1.02%
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Luxury Retail Focus
Dubai Duty Free completed renovations at three Arrivals Shops in H1 and is preparing for a busy summer and final quarter.“We are looking forward to an equally busy second half of the year,” Cidambi said. “Plans are very much in place for the opening of three luxury boutiques in Terminal 3 Concourse A including Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Cartier.” These additions support Dubai Duty Free’s strategy to enhance its luxury retail presence, targeting both regional and international travellers.