Dubai Duty Free has announced impressive sales figures commemorating its 42nd anniversary on December 20, reaching 69.097 million dirhams (approximately 19 million dollars). This surge followed a special 24-hour discount event, offering a notable 25% off on a wide range of products.
This remarkable performance resulted in a sales growth rate of 15.18%, equating to an increase of 9.1 million dirhams (2.5 million dollars) compared to the anniversary sales from the previous year. These results mark the second-highest single-day sales in the history of Dubai Duty Free, falling just 351,000 dirhams short of the all-time record.
The duty-free market showcased significant operational momentum, particularly with strong sales across Dubai International and Al Maktoum International airports. Terminal 3 at Dubai International was responsible for the majority of sales, while Gate D in Terminal 1 solidified its status as a leading travel retail destination, generating 13.6 million dirhams (3.73 million dollars) and achieving a 9.14% growth compared to 2024. Meanwhile, Al Maktoum International recorded impressive sales of 1.073 million dirhams (294,242 dollars), a remarkable 50% increase from the anniversary day of the previous year.
The anniversary sales reflect an exceptional year for Dubai Duty Free, which has experienced multiple record-breaking months, including its highest-ever monthly performance in November at 876.56 million dirhams (240.16 million dollars). Total sales up to December 9 have exceeded 8 billion dirhams.
The 24-hour discount initiative generated vigorous shopping activity at both Dubai and Al Maktoum International airports, with high demand for many key products. Fragrances topped the list of best-selling items, generating 17.455 million dirhams (4.782 million dollars), reflecting a 14.73% increase compared to the same day in 2024. Additionally, the popular ‘Millennium Millionaire’ and ‘Incredible Surprises’ draws attracted considerable interest, collectively generating ticket sales of 11 million dirhams (3.01 million dollars), fueled by record online purchases totaling 13,589, surpassing last year’s record of 8,252 transactions.
Watches ranked third with sales amounting to 7.672 million dirhams (2.102 million dollars), marking a noteworthy 42.88% increase, followed by cosmetics with sales hitting 4.534 million dirhams (1.242 million dollars).
Ramesh Kidambi, Executive Vice Chairman of Dubai Duty Free, expressed gratitude to Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and CEO of Emirates Group, for his enduring support over the past four decades.
He praised the team for their remarkable achievement of exceeding 69 million dirhams in sales within just 24 hours, taking advantage of the significant traveler turnout and rising expenditure levels, with 95,784 transactions processed compared to 93,251 transactions on the same day last year. Sales on the anniversary far surpassed the average daily sales for December, which is typically around 30 million dirhams.
This outstanding accomplishment highlights the team’s efficiency and capability in managing the increasing demand generated by the discount offer during one of the busiest travel days of the year.
The annual 25% promotional discount offered by Dubai Duty Free on its anniversary has garnered considerable interest from travelers worldwide, with many scheduling their trips for December 20 to take advantage of the promotion. It is worth noting that the first anniversary discount was launched in 2003 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the company, and it has been an annual event since, becoming a well-known highlight during peak travel times.