Dubai Duty Free has recorded AED638.8 million (US$175 million) in sales for July, bringing year-to-date revenue to AED4.73 billion ($1.3 billion), a 5.86 per cent increase over the same period last year.

The July result was 9.7 per cent higher than the previous month and ranks as the ninth-highest sales month in the retailer’s 41-year history. It also marks the fifth time this year that monthly sales have landed in the company’s all-time top 10.

“Achieving nearly 10 per cent sales growth in a month when we estimate passenger traffic remained relatively flat is a testament to our team’s dedication and product offering,” said Ramesh Cidambi, MD Dubai Duty Free.

Perfumes remained the top-selling category, with sales up 10.3 per cent year-on-year. Gold sales jumped 15.5 per cent, while confectionery rose sharply by 57 per cent. Other gains included liquor (up 1.7 per cent), tobacco (2.2 per cent), watches (18.4 per cent), and precious jewellery (16.8 per cent).

The retailer also reported continued growth in pre-owned luxury sales. Reklaim, a boutique launched in December, specialises in authenticated pre-owned watches and handbags and operates across Concourses A, B and D, including in the Emirates First Class Lounge.

“The demand for pre-loved luxury products is growing and with the Reklaim offer, we can provide “Pristine” sought after items that may be difficult to find in the market,” added Cidambi. “We are looking at expanding the Reklaim offer throughout the operation in response to the growing demand.”