Dubai Duty Free achieves record $2.2 billion in sales for 2024

Dubai Duty Free (DDF) closed 2024 on a high note, setting a new monthly record in December with sales of AED821.944 million ($225.190 million), a 2% increase compared to December 2023, according to the Emirates News Agency.

The surge was largely driven by the 41st-anniversary celebrations, which included a 25% discount on December 20, resulting in a shopping spree of AED59.993 million ($16.436 million) in just 24 hours, reported WAM.

DDF recorded over 20.733 million sales transactions throughout the year, averaging 56,649 transactions daily, and sold 55.137 million units of merchandise. An estimated 13.7 million customers shopped at DDF’s Arrivals and Departures stores, highlighting its significant reach and appeal, according to WAM.

Online sales also played a role, contributing AED197 million ($54 million) and representing 2.5% of overall sales. Departures sales dominated with AED7.121 billion ($1.951 billion), accounting for 90% of total revenue and growing by 0.84%, while Arrivals sales stood at AED537 million ($147 million), a 12.21% decline.

DDF continued to expand its workforce in 2024, growing to 6,030 employees from 54 nationalities. As part of its five-year business plan (2025–2029), the company strengthened its senior management team with the addition of eight senior managers, including seven UAE nationals.

Looking ahead, Dubai Duty Free plans to complete the final phase of renovations for Arrival shops in early 2025. Major refurbishments are also planned for Concourse B, focusing on Luxury Watches and Electronics, and Concourse A, which will see upgrades for Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Gifts from Dubai, as well as the addition of three new luxury fashion boutiques. These renovations, spanning 2025 to 2026, aim to further enhance the retail experience and maintain DDF’s position as a global leader in airport retail.

Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi reflected on the success of 2024, stating, “Despite extensive renovations, we delivered another record-breaking year. I am deeply grateful to our staff, suppliers, and customers for their contributions to this success.”