Dubai Duty Free reports record-breaking July with Dh638.8 million in sales

Dubai: Dubai Duty Free (DDF), the world’s largest single-airport retailer, has delivered yet another remarkable performance in July 2025, recording sales of Dh638.8 million ($175 million) for the month and Dh4.734 billion ($1.3 billion) in year-to-date revenue  — a  5.86% increase compared to the same period last year.

This July figure surpasses the previous record of Dh602.8 million ($165 million) set in July 2023 and represents a 9.7% increase over July 2024’s sales of Dh582.26 million ($159.52 million).

The performance places July 2025 as the ninth highest-grossing month in DDF’s 41-year history and marks the fifth record-breaking month of 2025 so far.

Notably, DDF’s strong financial results come despite modest passenger growth at Dubai International Airport (DXB), which saw only a 2.3% increase in footfall from January to June.

“We are delighted to report another strong sales month in what is already proving to be an exceptional year,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free. “This outstanding performance reflects the resilience of our retail operation and the continued demand for world-class shopping experiences.”

Perfumes, liquor, gold, tobacco and confectionery remained the top five selling categories in July.

Other high-performing categories included Watches (up 18.4%) and Precious Jewellery (up 16.8%), further highlighting the broad appeal of Dubai Duty Free’s luxury product portfolio.

The retailer’s high-end CA and CB Fashion Boutiques, home to global brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, posted an 11.36% growth in sales. This comes amid global uncertainty in the luxury retail sector, which DDF has so far successfully bucked.

“Despite widespread media reports on the global slowdown in luxury retail, our boutiques are showing strong and consistent demand,” said Cidambi.

DDF’s pre-owned luxury concept, REKLAIM, launched in December 2024, has also gained momentum. Located in Concourses A, B, and D — including within the Emirates First Class Lounge — REKLAIM offers authenticated pre-owned handbags and watches.

Since launch, the boutique has generated over Dh14.3 million ($3.9 million) in revenue, with Dh1.6 million ($445,000) in July alone. Rolex watches continue to be the standout performer, with 176 sold to date, including 16 in July.

“The demand for pristine pre-loved luxury items is growing rapidly,” said Cidambi. “We are now considering expanding REKLAIM across more of our retail footprint.”

Dubai Duty Free’s success comes at a time of growing competition in global travel retail and rising pressure from domestic markets. However, DDF’s sustained investment in digital innovation, premium product selection, and experiential retail has helped it maintain a strong position.

“This success is a testament to our dedicated team and the ongoing support of our Chairman, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. We’ve enhanced customer engagement and spending, even in a challenging retail environment,” Cidambi concluded.