Duty-free in Dubai is a duty–free shop at the international airport, operating around the clock. Only air passengers can come here for shopping. It offers a wide range of products, from cosmetics, clothing and accessories to electronics, jewelry, souvenirs and other goods.
History of creation
The official opening date of Dubai Duty Free (DDF) is December 20, 1983. Prior to that, the airport was served by trading concessions operated by traders from Dubai. The company was created at the suggestion of the Irish airport operator Aer Rianta to launch duty-free trade.
In the first year of Duty-free in Dubai, we managed to earn $20 million, and it seemed like an incredible result. In 2023, when the company celebrated its 40th anniversary, sales exceeded $2 billion. The company's staff consists of approximately 5,000 employees, and 55,000 transactions are carried out every day.
Short description
Duty-free in Dubai is one of the largest duty-free shops in the world. In Dubai, its area is more than 36,000 square meters. Due to the absence of import duties and taxes, the prices of goods are cheaper - one of the reasons why the store is called a "consumer paradise" for tourists who have just arrived in the UAE and those who are leaving the country.
According to statistics, the largest sales markets are:
- India.
- Russia.
- China.
- Great Britain.
Promotions are regularly held, providing seasonal discounts and exclusive offers from branded companies. Foreigners can buy alcohol here, in Dubai alcoholic beverages are sold only in specialized bars and restaurants. Not all hotels have them. It is forbidden to drink in public places, and it is forbidden to appear drunk on the street.
What can I buy
Duty-free shops in Dubai have a wide range of products. There is a large selection of tobacco products, lighters and ashtrays. Top products include cosmetics, perfumes from Chanel, Dior and Tom Ford brands, smartphones, tablets and other equipment from Apple, Dyson, Sony, Samsung and so on. You can buy Rolex, Alba, and Omega watches in Duty-free stores. Tourists often buy dates, local delicacies, chocolate and other Arabic sweets, plush camels, dishes, small replicas of skyscrapers and refrigerator magnets to remember their trip to the Emirates.
Rules for buyers
Please note that some products are subject to restrictions. Passengers can buy up to 4 liters of alcohol or 2 cases of beer, 400 cigarettes, up to 500 grams of tobacco, 50 cigars.
You can use the "Buy Now, Collect Later" service, which allows you to reserve goods online 2 days before departure and get a 10% discount on some purchases. The order can be received at special counters in the terminals when showing your passport and boarding pass.
Unusual facts
Since 1999, lotteries have been sold in Duty-free Dubai, the main prize is 1,000,000 USD. The drawing is usually held twice a month. You can buy tickets both offline and online. In the Finest Surprise, you can win luxury cars, including Bentleys, Porsches, BMW motorcycles, Harley Davidsons, and so on.
How to get
Duty-free service in Dubai operates around the clock in all 3 terminals in the departure and arrival areas of Dubai International Airport. And it can be crowded at any time of the day. So far, the largest selection is provided in Terminal 3.
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