Dubai Duty Free's July sales soar to an unprecedented AED638.8 million, marking a nearly 10% increase compared to the previous year.
In July 2025, Dubai Duty Free (DDF) recorded its highest-ever monthly revenue, achieving AED638.8 million (US$175 million), surpassing the previous July record of AED602.8 million set in 2023 [1][2][3]. This growth represents a 9.7% increase from July 2024, making July 2025 the 9th highest sales month in the company's history.
Despite a modest 2.3% increase in passenger growth at Dubai International Airport in the first half of 2025, sales grew nearly 10%, indicating higher spending per passenger and effective retail strategies [1][2][3]. The Managing Director, Ramesh Cidambi, attributed the sales surge to the resilience and quality of DDF’s retail operations, their world-class shopping experience, and the hard work of their team [1][2][3].
The success of DDF in July 2025 can also be attributed to the strong demand for luxury products. Perfumes, gold, and confectionery were the top-performing categories, with increases of 10.3%, 15.5%, and 57% respectively. Rolex was the standout performer within the REKLAIM pre-loved luxury concept, generating a total of AED14.3 million in sales since its launch [1][2].
Luxury fashion brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier also delivered strong results, with DDF’s CA and CB boutiques growing by 11.36% [1]. Year-to-date sales for DDF reached AED4.73 billion, up 5.86% over the same period last year [1].
DDF's optimism about 2025 is based on its success in the first seven months of the year. The company has already marked five record-breaking months out of seven in 2025, showing sustained momentum in a competitive and uncertain market environment [2][4]. This optimism is despite challenges in the global retail sector.
The strong team performance is a key factor in DDF's success. The dedication and hard work of the team have been instrumental in maintaining the company's growth trajectory [1][2][3]. The strategic business focus and leadership support, including backing from Chairman H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, have also played a significant role [2].
Given the continuous record-setting sales and the ability to increase shopper spend despite modest traffic growth, DDF appears well-positioned to maintain its growth trajectory. The resilience of its retail operations and commitment to enhancing the shopping experience suggest continued strength in coming months, even with ongoing global market uncertainties [1][2][4].
In summary, the record July 2025 sales reflect effective retail management, strong customer engagement, and strategic leadership, setting a positive outlook for future growth at Dubai Duty Free [1][2][3][4].
References: [1] Dubai Duty Free (2025). Press Release: Dubai Duty Free Records Highest Ever Sales in July. [Online] Available at: https://dubaidutyfree.com/press-release/dubai-duty-free-records-highest-ever-sales-in-july/ [Accessed 1 August 2025]. [2] Gulf News (2025). Dubai Duty Free sets record sales in July amid global retail challenges. [Online] Available at: https://gulfnews.com/business/retail/dubai-duty-free-sets-record-sales-in-july-amid-global-retail-challenges-1.92923991 [Accessed 1 August 2025]. [3] Arabian Business (2025). Dubai Duty Free breaks sales record in July. [Online] Available at: https://www.arabianbusiness.com/retail-consumer/852329-dubai-duty-free-breaks-sales-record-in-july [Accessed 1 August 2025]. [4] Zawya (2025). Dubai Duty Free sees record-breaking sales in July despite global retail challenges. [Online] Available at: https://www.zawya.com/mena/en/business/story/Dubai_Duty_Free_sees_recordbreaking_sales_in_July_despite_global_retail_challenges-UZYT5N4 [Accessed 1 August 2025].
The increased revenue in the fashion-and-beauty, luxury, and business sectors contributed significantly to Dubai Duty Free's record sales in July 2025. The success of luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, and the REKLAIM pre-loved luxury concept, particularly Rolex, played a significant role in this growth.
Strong consumer demand for luxury products, coupled with effective retail strategies, resulted in a 9.7% increase in July 2025 sales compared to the previous year, making it the 9th highest sales month in the company's history.
