Dubai Duty Free’s record run continues with October peak

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Dubai, UAE –

Dubai Duty Free has set another benchmark in 2025, achieving record October sales of AED805.6 million (US$220.7 million) — its highest-ever figure for the month and the third-largest monthly total in its history.

The impressive performance surpasses the previous October peak of AED692 million (US$189 million) set in 2023 and continues a strong run, making October the eighth record-breaking month of the year. Overall, the retailer’s 2025 sales so far stand at AED6.88 billion (US$1.88 billion) — up 8.72% from last year.

October’s sales momentum was particularly striking as it outpaced passenger growth by around 10%, with retail revenues rising 19.3% year-on-year.

Among top-selling categories, perfumes led the pack with AED139.9 million, followed by gold (AED97.2 million), reflecting strong festive demand during Diwali. Liquor and confectionery followed closely, the latter reaching an all-time high of AED78 million, powered by the continued success of “Dubai Chocolate.” The chocolate line sold 71 tons across nine brands, making it one of the most successful product stories of the year.

Luxury boutiques also delivered standout results, growing 43.5% over October 2024. The newly launched Louis Vuitton and Cartier boutiques in Concourse A proved to be major attractions, alongside strong performance from Chanel, Dior, Gucci, and other global names. Notable transactions included an Audemars Piguet watch worth over AED200,000 and two Hermès Birkin handbags priced above AED120,000 each.

All airport locations recorded double-digit growth — Concourse A (+27.4%), B (+21.5%), C (+21.9%), D (+11.2%), and Terminal 2 (+13.1%). Arrivals retail also posted an 18.3% increase, reflecting the strong spending pattern of travelers.

Regional sales were up across most markets, with Africa, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, and Australasia all posting over 20% growth. The Indian subcontinent saw moderate expansion at 6.6%, while Russia gained 14.2%.

With just two months left in the year, Dubai Duty Free’s trajectory points toward another record-breaking close to 2025, as it approaches its 42nd anniversary in December, reaffirming its dominance in global airport retail.