Abu Dhabi Duty Free sales up over 10%

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The retailer's focus on improving penetration and spend, plus the continued growth of national carrier Etihad, have driven sales increases in the first six months

The company said the growth reflected its focus on increasing penetration, conversion and average sales per passenger as well as the growth of new United Arab Emirates flag carrier Etihad, which has contributed to traffic growth of 10.79% through Abu Dhabi International airport in the first six months.

Cosmetics and fragrances sales increased by 23.75%, combined sales of liquor and tobacco grew by 18.03%, gold by 10.13% and souvenirs and destination merchandise by 88.16%.

Abu Dhabi Duty Free managing director Mohamed Mounib said: "We are very pleased with the figures so far. Due to the increase in traffic through the airport, sales are expected to surpass last year's sales by as much as 15% by the end of the year."

Mounib added that he expected new major airlines flying to Abu Dhabi to be announced shortly. The growth of traffic through the airport is expected to add 1m passengers, taking the total forecast for 2005 to over 6m.