UNITED ARAB EMIRATES TRAVEL RETAIL MARKET FORECAST 2025-2032

The tax-free shopping environment remains a key driver of this growth, enabling travelers to access premium products at competitive prices. Duty-free shops at major airports are stocked with globally renowned brands, catering to the demand for luxury items, electronics, and cosmetics. This unique selling point, coupled with the country’s status as a destination for high-end retail, encourages increased spending, boosting the travel retail market’s performance.

Retailers in the United Arab Emirates are also leveraging technology and innovation to enhance customer experiences. Digital kiosks, contactless payment systems, and personalized loyalty programs are now standard features, while curated product ranges and exclusive launches further elevate the shopping appeal. Mega events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and international sporting events continue to attract millions of visitors, significantly contributing to retail sales and driving the sector’s growth.

With international tourist arrivals projected to grow by 63% between 2024 and 2029, the United Arab Emirates’s travel retail market is poised for further expansion. Ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, tourism promotion, and digital transformation ensure the sector remains competitive on a global scale. As the country continues to attract a diverse and increasing number of international visitors, its travel retail market is set to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economy and global standing.

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The report on the United Arab Emirates travel retail market includes a segmentation analysis based on product type and distribution channel.

Market by Product Type:

• Fashion and Accessories
• Jewelry and Watches
• Wine & Spirits
• Food & Confectionery
• Fragrances and Cosmetics
• Tobacco
• Other Product Types

Market by Distribution Channel:

• Airports
• Railway Stations
• Other Distribution Channels

Inkwood Research’s report on the United Arab Emirates travel retail market provides in-depth insights as well as the market’s segmentation analysis. The detailed evaluation of the market includes PESTLE Analysis, Market Maturity Analysis, Market Concentration Analysis, Key Buying Criteria, and Competitive Landscape. 

Major companies operating in the United Arab Emirates travel retail market include Aer Rianta International, Lagardère Travel Retail Group, DFS Group Ltd, Dubai Duty Free, Avolta AG (Dufry), etc.

Dubai Duty Free is a retailer of luxury goods and travel essentials, renowned for its extensive selection and exceptional customer service. The company offers a diverse range of products, including perfumes and cosmetics, watches and jewelry, electronics, liquor and tobacco, and a wide variety of other goods. Beyond retail, Dubai Duty Free also provides a range of entertainment options, including live music performances, art exhibitions, and a golf course. Founded in 1983, the company is headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.