Luxury retail growth, innovation, and evolving consumer preferences drive success

Dubai, UAE – Dubai Duty Free (DDF), the world’s largest single-airport retailer, has announced record-breaking sales of Dh638.8 million ($175 million) for July 2025, the highest for that month in its 41-year history. This milestone reflects a 9.7% increase compared to July 2024 and outpaces the previous record of Dh602.8 million achieved in 2023.

So far in 2025, DDF has recorded Dh4.734 billion ($1.3 billion) in total sales — a 5.86% rise year-on-year, continuing its impressive growth trajectory.

Retail Revenue Soars Despite Moderate Passenger Growth

Notably, the surge in revenue came despite a modest 2.3% growth in passenger traffic at Dubai International Airport (DXB) during the first half of the year. This highlights increased per-passenger spending, driven by DDF’s high-value retail strategy and diverse luxury offerings.

“We’re pleased to report another outstanding month,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free. “Our success reflects the strength of our team and the appeal of our curated shopping experience.”

Top Performing Categories in July

Strong performance in key segments fueled the July record:
  • Perfumes: +10.3% growth year-on-year
  • Gold: +15.5% increase
  • Confectionery: +57% jump from July 2024
  • Tobacco: +2.2%
  • Liquor: +1.7%

Luxury timepieces and jewelry also contributed significantly, with watch sales up 18.4% and precious jewellery growing by 16.8%.

Luxury Fashion and Pre-Owned Concept Thrive

DDF’s high-end fashion boutiques — including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier — posted 11.36% growth, bucking global trends that suggest a slowdown in luxury spending.

Its pre-loved luxury store, REKLAIM, launched in December 2024, has quickly gained popularity among travelers. Offering authenticated designer handbags and watches in Concourses A, B, and D, REKLAIM has generated:

  • Dh14.3 million ($3.9 million) in total revenue
  • Dh1.6 million ($445,000) in July alone
  • 176 Rolex watches sold since launch, including 16 last month
“Demand for premium pre-owned products is growing fast,” said Cidambi. “We’re now exploring ways to expand REKLAIM’s presence.”

Innovation, Experience, and Business Resilience

Dubai Duty Free’s strong showing this year reaffirms its position in an increasingly competitive travel retail market. Its investment in digital innovation, luxury retail formats, and customer engagement has helped it stay ahead of global trends.

“This performance is the result of our dedicated workforce and the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum,” said Cidambi. “We are strengthening our value proposition even in a challenging global environment.”

DDF’s growth also reflects the broader success of the business in UAE, which continues to attract global interest, especially as more entrepreneurs and investors explore options like the golden visa for long-term residency and opportunities.

Looking Ahead:

With five record-breaking months in 2025 and strong year-to-date figures, Dubai Duty Free is well-positioned to maintain its dominance in global airport retail. As demand for luxury products and experiential shopping grows, DDF is expected to keep setting new benchmarks in the months ahead.