By Staff Reporter
Dubai Duty Free recorded a strong performance in May 2025, reporting sales of Dhs724.7 million (US$198.5 million) — the highest monthly figure so far this year and a 12.5% increase over May 2024.
The figures mark May 2025 as the second-highest sales month ever outside the peak December period, trailing only behind November 2024. Year-to-date revenue has now surpassed Dhs3.5 billion (US$1 billion), reflecting a 6.5% growth compared to the same period last year.
Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi attributed the robust performance to consistent category-wide growth and the dedication of the retail team. According to internal estimates, May sales outpaced passenger traffic growth by 7–8%, with daily averages hitting Dhs23.3 million (US$6.38 million).
Customer engagement metrics also improved significantly. Penetration rose to 28% from 26.3% in May 2024, and average spend per departing passenger climbed to US$46.7, up US$3 year-on-year.
Confectionery led product category gains with an 81% surge in sales, totaling Dhs73.9 million (US$20.2 million), largely driven by the popularity of “Dubai chocolate.” Perfumes posted a 15% increase to Dhs132.8 million, while cosmetics rose 10.8%. Sales of cigarettes and tobacco, gold, precious jewellery, liquor, electronics, and fashion also saw notable year-on-year growth.
Sales by location showed strong gains, with Concourse B in Terminal 3 leading at 17.5% growth. Terminal 2 Departures posted the highest percentage increase at 20.8%, while refurbished Arrivals shops saw a 6.25% uptick.
Regionally, all key passenger markets contributed positively, with Europe up 25.9%, and the Middle East and Russian region each posting 14% increases.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
