Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has kicked off 2025 with its strongest first-half performance yet, reporting Dh4.118 billion ($1.128 billion) in sales—a 5.34% jump compared to the same period last year.
The figures represent a new benchmark, surpassing the previous record for January to June by nearly Dh209 million. The growth was driven by increased passenger spending during peak travel periods like Eid and the early summer season.
“We are very pleased with our record performance for the first half of 2025,” said Ramesh Cidambi, managing director of DDF. “This performance is a testament to our team’s hard work and the strength of Dubai as a global travel hub.”
Perfumes continued to lead all product categories, generating Dh744.24 million and making up 18% of the total revenue. Confectionery saw the most dramatic surge, climbing 62.7% year-on-year to Dh412.52 million. Sales in beverages, cigarettes & tobacco, and gold also posted solid growth.
Terminal 3 remained the top performer among DDF locations, with a 6.37% rise in sales. Terminal 1 followed closely with a 5.25% increase. Regionally, Europe posted the highest growth at 16.89%, with strong gains also seen in the Middle East and Russian markets.
Following renovations of its Arrivals Shops, DDF plans to expand further by opening three high-end boutiques—Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Cartier—at Terminal 3 Concourse A later this year.
Cidambi said the company is ready for an “equally busy second half,” with preparations in full swing to meet the demand of summer and the traditionally strong year-end travel season.