Duty free sales at Abu Dhabi International Airport in the UAE hit a record high for 2014 with revenues reaching AED1bn (US$272m), a rise of 10.5% when compared to the AED913m (US$249m) recorded in 2013.
Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chairman for Abu Dhabi Airports, said, “This significant milestone confirms that we are providing passengers with the diverse services and offerings they expect at a major international airport and reflects the incredible growth in passengers which is largely driven by the success of the national airline, Etihad Airways.
“To achieve an increase in average spend per head amid refurbishment works and new store installations is always challenging, however, we continue to align our range of products more closely to the passenger demographic. This has played a big part in driving sales beyond the AED1bn (US$272m) mark.”
Beauty products and fragrances emerged as the biggest selling product categories in 2014 with a 31% share of duty free turnover, an increase of 9.7% over 2013. Indian, Chinese and Emirati passengers continued to account for the highest share of sales at the airport with 36%.
“Abu Dhabi Duty Free will continue to focus on improving our customer experience with phase two of our retail and food and beverage refurbishment program, which will enable us to offer the widest choice to our passengers. Exclusive offers, product launches, innovative promotional campaigns, great value and excellent customer service, will all contribute to the further growth of Abu Dhabi,” added Al Mansoori.