Image Credit : dubaidutyfree
Dubai Duty Free has delivered its strongest performance on record, reporting annual sales of Dhs8.680 billion ($2.378 billion) in 2025, marking a 9.85 percent increase compared to 2024 and the highest result in the retailer’s 42-year history.
The record-breaking year was underpinned by ten months of all-time high sales, with December emerging as the standout period. Sales in December alone reached Dhs922.77 million ($252.81 million), the highest monthly total ever achieved, representing a 12.27 percent rise year-on-year.
A key driver of December’s performance was Dubai Duty Free’s 42nd anniversary celebrations on December 20, when a 25 percent discount promotion generated Dhs69.097 million ($19 million) in sales within a single day.
“The outstanding results in 2025 reflect the focus, resilience and dedication of our team, together with the strong support of our suppliers and brand partners,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free. “Their combined efforts helped strengthen customer engagement and spending, enabling us to set new records in ten out of twelve months.”
Cidambi also acknowledged the continued guidance and support of the retailer’s Chairman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, during what he described as a landmark year for the organisation.
Sales outpace passenger growth
While final passenger traffic figures for 2025 have yet to be released, Dubai Duty Free said sales growth is estimated to have outperformed passenger growth by around five percent. The performance highlights the retailer’s success in enhancing customer conversion rates and increasing average transaction values despite broader travel trends.
The results further reinforce Dubai Duty Free’s position as one of the world’s leading airport retailers and a key contributor to Dubai’s aviation and tourism ecosystem.
