Latest news with #QatarDutyFree
Forbes
19-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Retail Comes Close To $1 Billion For Qatar Airways In Historic Year
Hamad Airport has just been expanded with more shops added. The strongest results in the history of Qatar Airways Group were released on Monday, with retail subsidiary Qatar Duty Free (QDF) making a strong contribution. The airline, whose home base is Hamad International Airport in Doha, produced a record-breaking profit of QAR7.85 billion ($2.15bn), soaring by 28% from $1.7 billion a year earlier. Revenue grew by only 6.3% to QAR85.64 billion ($23.5 billion) for the 12 months ending March 31, 2025, illustrating how the airline's partnership strategy, carefully planned route development, in-flight service, and agility in the face of an unstable political and economic environment have paid off. Last week, the airline also agreed to a huge order of Boeing jets (up to 210) during Donald Trump's visit to Qatar, boosting the beleaguered aircraft manufacturer beset by safety and production issues. Meanwhile, the 100% holding, QDF Company, which operates the entire over-430,000 square feet retail offer at Hamad International, increased its share of the airline's revenue. In the 12 months to March, QDF's sales across more than 200 retail and food and beverage (F&B) outlets grew by 12% year-over-year, processing over 15 million individual transactions in the period. The 12% figure is less than the 18% reported earlier this year directly by QDF for calendar 2024, suggesting that there has been a softening of sales in the first quarter of 2025, which is the retailer's 25th anniversary year. Helping QDF last year were record-breaking passenger numbers at the Qatar Airways hub. In 2024, traffic reached 52.7 million, up by 15% to keep it in the top tier of ACI World's ranking for busiest international airports at #10. The airport slipped down a place from the year before as Hong Kong International returned to the Top 10 (at #9) after a very delayed revival due to post-Covid caution, but finally went into overdrive last year (up 34%). For FY25, Qatar Airways broke out its duty-free goods and beverages revenue, which reached QAR3.56 billion ($977.2 million). All of it is likely to be derived from QDF, but the retailer did not confirm this at the time of writing. This year, there is an extra level of activity in terms of stores opening in the newly inaugurated concourses D and E, adding to A, B and C, plus high-profile 25th anniversary activity, which included two weekends in May when there was 25% off on almost everything. Revenue is therefore expected to soar and Thabet Musleh, Qatar Airways' chief retail and hospitality officer told me that this year he would be upping the experience level at Doha's Hamad Airport 'and leading with concepts that no other airports have deployed,' an example being the existing Dior Luxury Beauty Retreat, the world's largest and the first in an airport. (A detailed interview with Mr. Musleh will appear soon.) Interior of the luxurious double-height Dior Spa at Hamad International Airport. Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer has described QDF 'as the heartbeat of our passenger-focused operations', rare praise from an airline head, most of whom barely acknowledge their retail business (if they have one). It underlines the crucial role that the carrier believes that shopping and F&B plays in its overall operation. QDF's vision will continue with what it calls 'ground-breaking' projects, including major campaigns. These have included igniting the thrill of Formula 1 (the airline is a partner), featuring an airport F1 car display, racing simulators, and race-themed dining experiences; big luxury-label activations such as Chanel's Winter Tale; and the beauty-focused Yves Saint Laurent's Summer Mirage. As part of QDF's 25th anniversary celebrations it is also launching at least 25 new retail and F&B concepts this year while parent Qatar Airways expands services to Toronto and São Paulo from June.
Qatar Tribune
19-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Qatar Airways Group announces strongest financial results in its history
DOHA: Qatar Airways Group has announced the strongest set of financial results in its history. Profits for the Group, which includes cargo, catering and Qatar Duty Free, reached QR7.85bn ($2.15bn) in the 24/25 fiscal year – an increase of more than QR1.7bn ($0.5bn) on the year before. Qatar Airways Cargo, the world's leading cargo carrier, has delivered a remarkable financial performance, recording a 17% growth in revenue and achieving the best financial results since the COVID period. This is attributed to its agility in adapting to shifting market conditions, a focus on investing in digitalisation, deeper data-driven analyses, and its best-in-class reliability. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Eng Badr Mohammed Al Meer, said: 'These record-breaking results are a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of teams across all of Qatar Airways Group. I know that none of the outstanding results we're announcing today would be possible without our people – more than 55,000 of them across the globe - and it's our focus on fostering that talent, which has been a core focus of our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy. 'We have also successfully implemented strategic partnerships throughout the industry, in order for the Group to remain agile in the face of ever-shifting world events, whether political, economic or environmental. 'All of this means we continue to offer and develop exceptional service in the skies, whether it's the award-winning Qsuite, fine dining, or super-fast complimentary Starlink internet connectivity for all passengers.' Key achievements of Qatar Airways Group over the last financial year include: Record-breaking 28% increase in profit in 24/25 financial year. Expansion of Hamad International Airport, enabling it to cater for 65m passengers annually. First global airline, and first in MENA region, to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet. 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia. 25% acquisition of South African premier regional airline, Airlink. Introduction of conversational AI into its world-first digital cabin crew, Sama. A range of technical MoUs future-proofing and diversifying the business across the sector, as well as working to fulfil the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030. Looking ahead, Qatar Airways also recently made historic aircraft and engine orders, ensuring that its already modern and technologically-advanced fleet remains at the forefront of commercial aviation, providing world-leading service to passengers across the globe. Annual Report and Consolidated Financial Statements 2025:
Arabian Business
19-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Qatar Airways announces record $2.15bn profit
Qatar Airways Group has announced the strongest set of financial results in its history, with profits for the Group, which includes cargo, catering and Qatar Duty Free, reaching QR7.85bn ($2.15bn) in the 24-25 fiscal year. It represents an increase of more than QR1.7bn ($500m) on the year before. Qatar Airways Cargo, the world's leading cargo carrier, has delivered a remarkable financial performance, recording a 17 per cent growth in revenue and achieving the best financial results since the COVID period. Qatar Airways Group results This is attributed to its agility in adapting to shifting market conditions, a focus on investing in digitalisation, deeper data-driven analyses, and its best-in-class reliability. Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: 'These record-breaking results are a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of teams across all of Qatar Airways Group. I know that none of the outstanding results we're announcing today would be possible without our people – more than 55,000 of them across the globe – and it's our focus on fostering that talent, which has been a core focus of our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy. 'We have also successfully implemented strategic partnerships throughout the industry, in order for the Group to remain agile in the face of ever-shifting world events, whether political, economic or environmental. 'All of this means we continue to offer and develop exceptional service in the skies, whether it's the award-winning Qsuite, fine dining, or super-fast complimentary Starlink internet connectivity for all passengers.' Key achievements of Qatar Airways Group over the last financial year include: Record-breaking 28 per cent increase in profit in 24/25 financial year Expansion of Hamad International Airport, enabling it to cater for 65m passengers annually First global airline, and first in MENA region, to install Starlink super-fast Wi-Fi on its Boeing 777 fleet 25 per cent minority stake in Virgin Australia 25 per cent acquisition of South African premier regional airline, Airlink Introduction of conversational AI into its world-first digital cabin crew, Sama A range of technical MoUs future-proofing and diversifying the business across the sector, as well as working to fulfil the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030 , ensuring that its already modern and technologically-advanced fleet remains at the forefront of commercial aviation, providing world-leading service to passengers across the globe.
BusinessToday
19-05-2025
- Business
- BusinessToday
Qatar Airways Reports Record-Breaking Profit of US$2.15 Billion For FY24/FY25
Qatar Airways Group has announced the strongest financial results in its history, posting a record net profit of QAR7.85 billion (US$2.15 billion) for the fiscal year 2024/2025 (FY24/FY25), a significant year-on-year increase of over QAR1.7 billion (US$0.5 billion). The group's stellar performance spans across its entire ecosystem, including Qatar Airways Cargo, Qatar Duty Free and catering services, and reflects the group's strategic agility, robust digital transformation and unwavering commitment to service excellence. 'This exceptional achievement is a direct result of the dedication, skill and resilience of our global workforce. 'Our performance this year validates the strategic direction set out under Qatar Airways 2.0, with a clear focus on people, innovation and partnerships,' Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said. Key Milestones and Strategic Achievements: 28% increase in Group profit over the previous financial year. Major expansion of Hamad International Airport, now capable of handling 65 million passengers annually. First global airline and MENA carrier to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet. Acquisition of 25% stakes in both Virgin Australia and South African regional carrier Airlink, expanding the group's global footprint. Introduction of conversational artificial intelligence in Sama, the world's first digital cabin crew. Multiple technical memoranda of understandings signed, aimed at future-proofing and diversifying group operations in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. Looking ahead, Al-Meer reaffirmed the airline's commitment to innovation and sustainability, saying, 'Our financial strength enables us to invest in the future — in new technologies, better experiences and sustainable growth that benefits both our customers and the industry at large.' Related
Qatar Tribune
11-05-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Sony opens new store at QDF in partnership with Modern Home
Tribune News Network Doha Sony Middle East and Africa, in partnership with Modern Home and Qatar Duty Free (QDF), held the official ribbon-cutting ceremony of its new store located at Hamad International Airport, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the brand's presence across the region. The ceremony was graced by senior management from Sony, Modern Home and Qatar Airways, including Kazuo Kii, executive deputy president, officer in charge of engineering and operations, senior vice president, Sony Group Corporation; Jobin Joejoe, managing director, Sony Middle East and Africa; alongside Bader Al-Darwish, chairman and managing director, Modern Home; and Thabet Musleh, chief retail and hospitality officer, Qatar Airways. Kazuo Kii commented: 'Qatar Duty Free and Hamad International Airport represent an important platform for Sony as we continue to expand our global presence. This store exemplifies our ambition to bring the best of Sony's innovation and engineering to customers around the world, and we are proud to do so in such a dynamic and strategic location. We deeply value our partnership with Modern Home, whose long-standing support has been essential in realizing this milestone.' Bader Al-Darwish said: 'We are proud to celebrate another milestone in our enduring relationship with Sony, which began more than six decades ago. The opening of this store at Hamad International Airport speaks to the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to excellence. Its presence at such a prominent location ensures that travellers are introduced to the best of Sony's technology in a space that reflects our values of quality, innovation, and customer experience.' Thabet Musleh added: 'We're proud to welcome Sony to Qatar Duty Free — a brand renowned for its pioneering technology and iconic product. This addition strengthens our retail mix at Hamad International Airport and reflects our commitment to delivering the world's best brands and an exceptional shopping experience to our travellers, with something for everyone to enjoy.' Located in Departures Concourse C, the Sony store at Qatar Duty Free offers a premium and immersive retail experience, featuring the brand's latest innovations including the ULT Power Sound series, the award-winning 1000x series, and a curated selection of digital imaging products. Designed with both convenience and sophistication in mind, the store caters to the evolving needs of today's traveller—whether for business, leisure, or exploration. Modern Home and Sony's partnership, which dates back to 1964, has played a pivotal role in shaping Qatar's consumer electronics landscape. Over the years, Modern Home has remained at the forefront of bringing premium, world-class technology to the Qatari market, and this new store is a testament to that legacy. With this official inauguration, Sony continues to strengthen its presence in the region, while offering a destination where travellers can discover the brand's world of innovation, quality, and creativity—all under one roof at Qatar Duty Free.
