Dubai Duty Free Shines Again: Winning ‘Retail Company of the Year’ Award
A Testament to Retail Excellence
Dubai Duty Free recently took center stage at the Gulf Business Awards, held at the luxurious Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, where it was honored with the coveted title of ‘Retail Company of the Year’. This significant achievement marks the sixth time that the renowned airport retailer has captured this prestigious award, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the retail industry.
Celebrating Remarkable Contributions to the Economy
The Gulf Business Awards, hosted annually by the Motivate Media Group, are known for recognizing outstanding companies and individuals across various sectors in the GCC, including finance, hospitality, retail, and more. As one of the most respected business publications in the region, Gulf Business magazine takes its role seriously in celebrating those who significantly contribute to the economic landscape. The recognition of Dubai Duty Free in such a competitive category underscores the company’s impact on the retail sector and the broader economy.
Leadership in Retail
Accepting the award was Dubai Duty Free’s Managing Director, Ramesh Cidambi, accompanied by Deputy Managing Director Salah Tahlak and Senior Vice President of Marketing Sinead El Sibai. Their presence highlighted the collaborative effort behind this achievement. Cidambi expressed gratitude on behalf of the team, stating, “We are honoured to receive the ‘Retail Company of the Year’ award once for the sixth time. These awards highlight exceptional contributions to the region’s economic development.”
His comments reflect the company’s ethos and the hard work of everyone involved, reinforcing the communal spirit that underpins their success.
A Track Record of Success
This year’s accolade adds to Dubai Duty Free’s impressive history of awards. Notably, the company previously won the UAE Company of the Year in 2014 and the Gulf Business Company of the Year in 2018. Each award marks a milestone that signifies continual growth, adaptability, and leadership in the fast-changing retail landscape.
With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dubai Duty Free showcases how strategic vision combined with dedication can lead to sustaining high standards over the years. This holistic approach not only benefits the company but also enhances the shopping experience for travelers passing through Dubai’s bustling airport.
The Importance of Recognition
The acknowledgment received at the Gulf Business Awards serves more than just a trophy on a shelf. It reinforces trust and loyalty among its clientele, as shoppers are reassured by an award-winning brand that prioritizes quality, variety, and customer experience. Such accolades also motivate the team to maintain and further improve upon their services, setting the bar higher in the retail sector.
As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for travel and tourism, Dubai Duty Free’s achievements serve as a mirror reflecting the broader economic potential and opportunities within the region, demonstrating how collaboration can yield remarkable results.
In showcasing its commitment to addressing consumer needs while contributing to the local economy, Dubai Duty Free stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring retailers everywhere. Through awards like these, they continue to uphold not only their reputation but also the aspirations of the region as a whole.

