Retail

Revenues from shopping malls and retail outfits reached $626m in the first nine months of 2013, 22% higher than the same period of 2012. Out of 323 major international fashion retailers, more than half, maintained an outlet in Dubai in 2013, and the emirate is considered by one agency to be second only to London in importance for global fashion retail. Though Dubai was undoubtedly delighted with the acclamation of being named second only to London as the world’s most important home of international brands, the emirate will have top spot in its sights – especially if it can clear the final hurdle by 2020. The entrenchment of global branding and resultant potential is palpable in the retail sector.

This chapter contains an interview with Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice-Chairman, Dubai Duty Free.