Dubai Duty Free (DDF) is the tax-free shopping haven located at Dubai International Airport.
With sales of over $1.9 billion in 2014, an increase of over 7 percent on the previous year, it is the world’s biggest single airport retailer. The impressive sales growth looks set to continue in 2015. Sales in December 2014 were $205 million; their busiest month ever.
Shops are located in all three terminals, in both arrivals and departures, but the largest and most modern is situated in departure area of Terminal 3 (used exclusively by Emirates and one of the largest buildings in the world). All stores are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Duty free items can also be purchased on Emirates flights.
The product range is diverse and includes:
- Alcohol –Brands and products available include whisky (Johnnie Walker, Talisker, Jameson, Kilbeggan, Tullamore Dew, Glenfiddich, Dewars, Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, Southern Comfort etc.), champagne (Dom Perignon, Krug, Moet & Chandon etc.), Cognac (Courvoisier, Hennessy, Remy Martin etc.), gin (Beefeater, Gordon’s etc.), vodka (Smirnoff, Grey Goose, Absolut etc.), rum (Mount Gay, Bacardi, Havana Club etc.), tequila (Sauza, Jose Cuervo etc.), wine, and beer.
- Cigarettes – Packs of the most popular brands such as Benson & Hedges, Davidoff, Dunhill, Kent, Marlboro, Regal, Richmond, Silk Cut, and Winston.
- Cigars – Boxes of cigars from America, Europe, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Cuba. Cuban brands stocked include Bolivar, Cohiba, Hoyo de Monterrey, Montecristo, Partagas, H Upmann, and Vegas Robaina.
- Gold and Jewellery – Gold bars (18, 22, 24 carat) plus items from jewellers such as Pandora, Bvlgari, and Swarovski.
- Watches – Timepieces from all the top watchmakers including Citizen, Seiko, Breitling, Rolex, Omega, Bvlgari, Tag Heuer, and Tissot.
- Perfumes – Fragrances by Aramis, Bvlgari, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Carolina Herrera, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Dior, Diesel, Elizabeth Arden, Jean Paul Gaultier, Kenzo, Lacoste, Montblanc, Nina Ricci, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, Tommy Hilfiger, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more.
- Cosmetics
- Leather Goods – Handbags, purses, and wallets from all the top names.
- Luggage – Suitcases and bags by Delsey, Echolac, Porsche Design, Samsonite and others.
- Pens – Luxury pens by Montblanc, Cross, Montegrappa, and ST Dupont.
- Sunglasses – Designer sunglasses by Emporio Armani, Gucci, Prada, Ray Ban, Tom Ford, Burberry, Marc Jacobs, Maui Jim, and many others.
- Men’s Fashion – Cufflinks, ties, shirts, and suits. Labels stocked include Boss, Lacoste, Paul Smith, and Emporio Armani.
- Electronics – Products available include camcorders and digital cameras (Canon, Nikon, Fuji, Olympus, Panasonic, Sony, Samsung etc.), laptops and computers, video games (Nintendo, Sony PS3 and PS4 etc.), MP3 players (iPods etc.), and mobile phones (iPhone 5S, Blackberry etc.).
- Telephone Cards – Du and Etisalat mobile telephone cards.
Perfume is the most popular product sold at Dubai Duty Free, accounting for 17% of sales in 2014.
According to the Passenger Customs Guide 2014 (published Dubai Customs on the official government site) travellers arriving in Dubai can bring in the following quantities of goods free of duty:
- Gifts with a value of less than AED 3,000
- 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 500 grams of tobacco
- 4 litres of alcohol or 2 cartons of beer (one carton equals 24 cans, each not greater than 355 ml)
- Personal belongings
These limits apply irrespective of where the goods were purchased i.e. they include items purchased at Dubai Duty Free in the arrivals area. Arriving passengers should also note that Dubai Duty Free is the only place where they can legally purchase alcohol in Dubai (outside of hotel bars and restaurants) without an alcohol license (only available to residents).
Passengers leaving Dubai and making duty free purchases in departures should be aware of the duty free limits in their final destination. For example passengers travelling to the UK from Dubai enjoy the following duty free allowances:
- 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of fortified wine (port, sherry)
- 16 litres of beer and 4 litres of wine
- 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco
- £390 of other goods including perfumes and souvenirs
This information was obtained from the official HM Customs & Revenue website in March 2015.
Most other countries have similar limits.
The most common question most passengers ask is whether they are better off purchasing products at Dubai Duty Free, at another airport, in their home country, or in Dubai itself.
There is no single definitive answer. It depends on the product itself, which country the passenger is from, the airport they are flying from, exchange rates, discounts, and so on. The best way to decide is to carry out careful research based on individual circumstances.
The Dubai Duty Free website has an online store that lists prices for many of its products. Visit the website (link at the end of this article) and follow the ‘Buy Online’ link at the top right of the homepage.
There are a number of websites that can be helpful in determining the prices of goods in Dubai itself:
- The Paris Gallery website lists prices for perfumes, make-up, sunglasses, watches etc. They have stores throughout Dubai (including branches at the Dubai Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, BurJuman, Mirdif City Centre, and Deira City Centre, Wafi Mall, and Town Centre Jumeirah).
- The Jumbo Electronics website lists prices for laptops, TVs, mobile phones, cameras, and camcorders etc. They have branches at the BurJuman, Deira City Centre, Dubai Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, the Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre, and several other locations.
- Sharaf DG is another big electronics retailer in Dubai. Store locations include BurJuman, Deira City Centre, Ibn Battuta Mall, and the Dubai Mall.
Passengers from the UK can check out the prices online of fragrances, alcohol, and beauty products at many UK airports using the World Duty Free website.
For electronics, UK travellers can use the Dixons Travel website to check out products offered. Unfortunately it’s necessary to actually call the individual store to confirm price and real time availability (add the product to the shopping basket and submit to obtain the telephone number of the duty free store).
Travellers from other countries should be able to find similar websites.
To compare prices it’s necessary to convert the price to dirhams (AED). Real time exchange rates for the most popular currencies used by travellers to Dubai can be found here.
Dubai Duty Free was founded on 20th December 1983. Every year massive discounts are offered on the anniversary of its founding. In 2014 the discount was 25 percent on a wide range of items. The promotion usually runs for the 24 hours to midnight on the 20th December, although in 2014 it ran from 18th to 20th December.
DDF is famous for its lotteries and raffles. Prizes include millions in cash and luxury cars (Bentley, Porsche, Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes Benz, Aston Martin, Lamborghini etc.). Tickets can be purchased at the airport or online at the official Dubai Duty Free website.
Sample Price List
Prices for a selection of goods on sale at Dubai Duty Free are listed in the table below. The price list was last updated on Thursday 19th of October 2017.
Prices are shown in dirhams (AED) and US dollars (USD). To calculate the equivalent prices in other currencies, use the exchange rates on this page.
| Item | Category | Price (AED) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolut Vodka Citron 1 Litre | Alcohol | 82.00 | 22.78 |
Details
Dubai Duty Free
Address
Dubai International Airport
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Nearest Metro Station(s): Airport Terminal 1, Airport Terminal 3
Vikas says
Is there fossil Watches available at Dubai Airport?..How much cheaper than Indian market.
Thanks you
Donny says
Please quote beer prices.
zeeshan bashir says
can I buy iphone 7 plus from airport
Shahnavaz Merchant says
I will be visiting Dubai in 3 Rd week of march/17. Can some body guide me where to buy (1) Perfumes (2) Laptop (3) chocolate . Should I buy from Dubai duty free or malls in Dubai or Meena bazar & other places in Dubai. I want genuine/ original products only plz . Thanking you.
Pierre Rodgers says
Any possability of purchasing a drone in duty free?
temitee says
is there harrods at dubai duty free?
sridhar says
Does any one know how much Iphone SE cost in Dubai internation Airport? as i am travelling via dubai to europe would like to compare the price so that i can decide where to buy?
Thanks in advance
Lex says
I am intended to buy a TISSOT watch in DDF at airport. Can anyone provide me with some comments/suggestions getting this watch in DDF? Is it worth the price? Is the watch sold is genuine? Many Thanks.
sasankan .G says
Dubai Duty Free is more expensive than UK airport duty free shop. Also most of the alcohol drinks are not the same quality as UK brands. Dubai Duty Free is a rip off.
Travis says
It is true that DDF is pricey. But for some of us there is a convenience factor. Yesterday, I bought a GoPro from DDF. It was only because of the efforts of the sales person who went out of her way to explain in details its features and why it is better than other makes. I went in to browse and ended up buying, willingly. There are some very good sales people in DDF. Pricewise, I find what I bought to be about 20% less than in Europe.
Uma says
I love duty free too 🙂
VINOO says
Sasankan.. You are right .. Heathrow and Frankfurt Duty free offer much better rates … Total rip off DDF!!
Grant says
Hi
Can someone please tell me if they sell Hugo Boss Soul perfume at the duty free store?
Thank you
charles jones says
yes they do. ground floor,allow plenty of time as it could be a long way from your boarding gate,good luck.
Fatima says
Can I get a Tom Ford 250ml Costa Azzurra at the airport? Where and how much?
James Donovan says
2nd Terminal, around 500 $.
Aday says
Hi, will be flying home through Dubai on the 20th. Would appreciate if someone could tell me the price of an iPad Air 2 Wifi 64GB. I am planning on picking one up as a souvenir.
Thanks!
George Bagajluk says
Duty Free In Dubai Airport. No so duty free. We came through in Jan 15. The only cheap items were cigarettes. Alcohol is the same price in Brisbane Australia duty free.
You need to stay over for a few days in Dubai. Go to the Souks, and the alleys where the small shops are. You can get really good deals and you can haggle. It’s fun. Keep away from electronics etc at DDF airport.
Amanda says
I bought an iPhone in duty free in Bahrain airport and now need to contact them. It never worked properly and Apple Uk have traced it back to having been registered in the Czech Republic before being re sold in Bahrain. This is obviously very serious as I was not sold it as refurbished but as new, which it apparently was not. I need to take this up with them as it is not covered by warranty. Who do I report this to?
Thanks
Amanda
Editor says
Not here. We are an independent Dubai travel guide.
QAHER says
Anybody know the price of a Galaxy S6 Edge?
Anil says
Please advise cost of Nikon D5200 and D5300 cameras.
Braam says
Good day
Can anyone assist me, any idea what the price of a Garmin 920XT fitness watch cost in duty free is?
Thank you in advance
Editor says
Hi. It isn’t on the price list unfortunately. There’a s Garmin 910XT listed on the Jumbo Electronics website priced at 1905 AED.
Alex says
Anybody have any idea about how much is iPhone 6 64gb in Dubai Duty Free?
Editor says
Apple iPhone 6 Plus Gold 64GB costs AED 3,599.00 for purchase in store at Dubai Duty Free according to today’s price list. Hope this helps.
Rois says
it’s $920 USD.
balkan says
Dubai Duty Free was nice and cheap 10 years ago! Now I don’t know why they are calling it a ‘duty free’ shop as the prices are very high, even including tobacco (I still remember 2004, when I purchased a cartoon of tobacco for $10.50). Electronic goods are very expensive. Be careful, and prepare yourself before you travel to Dubai as prices are disgustingly big for some of them, and also for food and drinks. Staff not really knowledgeable and smoking is no longer allowed smoking at Terminal C restaurants. DDF management needs to improve current condition ASAP!
Deana says
Thank you. I too travelled to Dubai 10 years ago and found the same. I am returning later this year and was looking forward to spending some hard earned money. I will compare and possibly look elsewhere now
Pete K says
How much is an iPhone 6 in Dubai Duty Free?
Ben says
I’ve just checked the latest price list and the iPhone 6 is not listed. I’m not sure whether it is actually for sale here. Maybe it is and they haven’t updated the price list.
It is however, sold out at many of the electronic retailers in Dubai.
For what it is worth you can buy one from the online Apple store in the UAE for AED 2,599 (4.7 inch 16 GB).
ali says
I just want to ask HOW MUCH is i phone 6 plus thanks.
Editor says
Apple iPhone 6 Plus Gold 128GB AED 3,999.00
Apple iPhone 6 Plus Gold 64GB AED 3,599.00
According to the price list today for purchase at store.
Safiyyah Abdullahi says
Is there a way to contact the apple store at the airport please. I need to call them. Thank you
Hichem says
I took a cappuccino and a cheese sandwich for 12 euro. That’s too expensive compared with other airports.
But I bought cigarettes for only 17 euro where the price in other airport is about 28 Euro
Sam says
Having read the comments I agree with the vast majority. Other than cigarettes almost everything is cheaper in the UK than DDF (and even cheaper at LHR). I checked all of the Creme de la Mer cosmetics and can assure you they are a cheaper in Harrods. I showed the counter staff the website on my phone and she didn’t seem surprised. Remember then that all these cosmetics have no VAT in LHR and are therefore 20% cheaper again than Harrods. You can do the maths. The same is true for Estée Lauder and La Prairie, and I imagine across the board. Please think about this before being seduced by the thought that it is going to be cheaper here as it’s not. Please do check the Dubai Duty Free listing v Harrods v World Duty Free (which is LHR) and you will see it for yourself.
lion says
Complainers compared to the annual visitor numbers never remember.
Riccardo says
I can say that the prices in Dubai Duty Free are higher or equal to those you can find in Italy. The only exception are cigarettes. I bought Beats headphone and I paid 40 euros more than in Italy.
Kazi says
Things are very expensive in DDF. I can’t understand why things are so expensive there. I traveled from Singapore to Dubai. Things are really expensive compared to Singapore. Even they are much cheaper in UK and France airport. DDF authority should look into this. Quite unexpected and shocking!!!
Adrian says
Filipino’s are one of the courteous people I have ever met. I wonder why some people are whining about them. I am working in retail although not in Duty free and have had the chance to work with some of them. Some people of other nation are just so abrasive as if they are superior than any other race. They treat people of particular race so poorly but treat others differently. Having known Filipinos, they are not pushovers. Treat them nicely and will reciprocate but boy oh boy, treat them bad and they can be as badass or more.
hector says
I admire your comment concerning the attitude of the Filipinos, not only because I’m a Filipino. Give a Filipino a bread and he will give you a cake but try to mess with a Filipino and he will give you nightmare.
Yatish says
I find their accent and way of welcoming pretty nice!!!
the filli girls are great and make you feel special even for purchasing something as trivial as a burger from KFC
mandy says
i wanted to buy gold at DDF but the staff was disinterested and showed no interest in the customer,Ihad the same experience at the electronic DDF,very unprofessional
Roni says
True, DDFS have arrogant staff who don’t know a thing or two about what they sell. But they also have staff who are courteous and helpful. Please don’t generalize on the basis of one mere experience. And as patrons, we should also be mindful of how we approach these staff, they are human like us after all. They also get tired and are really probably underpaid. We have to be respectful of others ourselves before we expect respect from others. Address your complaints to the Management of DDFS because they are responsible for hiring, training and deploying their staff.
Alexander says
Had one sad experience.
We bought a camera in Dubai Dutyfree, and we were given a worldwide warranty ticket.
When we were back at home we found out that the camera was not OK and tried to get service locally but got a reply from the manufacturer official service that Dubai warranty is not covered in Europe!
We contacted Dubai duty free officials and got an assuring reply that they will settle the issue.
So if you come from Europe and Asia be prepared that the warranty for items you buy in the Dutyfree is not covered in your region.
debbie says
Yes I agree. Please do not buy any Samsung products as you will have no warranty. My parents paid over the odds for a tablet for me and although they were totally assured that it carried a world wide warranty it does not.
Disappointed says
I bought a Samsung phone from Dubai Duty Free in June and upon receiving the phone, there was a small black dot on the screen. However, I didn’t want to believe that there could be anything wrong with my expensive brand new phone (as I don’t live in the UAE) and thought it would go away. However, the dot spread and is now a big black spot on my phone. I visited the Samsung store in my country and they said to take it to the store in the country I bought it in and it is a factory defect. I was to travel via Dubai again near the end of December and contacted Dubai Duty Free to tell them about my problem as it was within the warranty period. Dubai Duty Free said I should give it to them upon arrival. I did so but they refused to give me a replacement phone and I was to wait 15 days. First of all, I am not from the country and I don’t travel every two weeks. Dubai Duty Free is operating from an airport so they should accommodate for their customers who are travelers and obviously do not live in the UAE so that they can buy defected phones and then travel back and forth inorder to fix and receive the phone. Dubai Duty Free would only ship the phone to the country I am from but please explain to me who is going to pay for duties etc. I was truly inconvenienced as I do not have a phone which I had thought they would provide a replacement. They said that had I told them when I first noticed the defect then they would have provided a phone replacement. I was not traveling through Dubai any time soon from when I received the phone and I had supposedly received a new phone so didn’t even expect there to be anything wrong with it. I advise you NOT to buy from Dubai Duty Free as they seem to be selling defected phones as can be seen from other reviews and it is difficult to travel back and forth in order to fix it. Dubai Duty Free should assess a person’s situation better and be able to provide a replacement of the product upon the next stop of the traveler through Dubai airport.
Richard says
Recently bought an Omega Planet Ocean.
£3800.00 in Omega shop in London
But I paid £3083.00 in Terminal 3 Heathrow and just checked in Dubai airport and same watch is approx. £3550.00 so glad I bought at Heathrow.
Should have followed my own advice as just paid over £260.00 for Bose quiet comfort 3 headphones that I could have bought for £254.00 at Heathrow, ok no big deal on this one but Ipad 3’s are also pricey. Has put me off
Asil says
Firstly, I think it depends upon the item of course. Secondly, if you’re hating on Dubai that much, simply don’t go. No one forced you. Plus, I’m sure the numbers of visitors to Dubai say otherwise.
Ashley Hasan says
You do not want to buy any electronic items in Dubai Airport. They all are very expensive. You can buy electronics items way cheaper in the USA if you happen to live there. Take my words guaranteed.
J Shah says
I just came back from Dubai yesterday. Things at DDF and also in the city are far more expensive than UK. It is Dubai Shopping Festival and even the sale prices of most branded items are more than in UK. I compared a lot of stuff I buy from UK to Dubai prices. No fun in shopping in Dubai. Just enjoy the weather and your hotel.
Div says
Thanks for commenting about DDF. Now I am aware of shopping there. I should never go for electronic items. Thanks guys.
kanishka says
Dubai Duty Free is not a good place to buy anything. Everything is more expensive than in UK. It’s just a good place to just hang around till your flight is available.
Manooji UK says
Dubai is not cheap on many items e.g. liquors. I wanted to purchase Nikon Coolpix L120 at DDF..When I compared price with UK it was 70pounds (400 AED) more expensive. Good job I did my homework before I went. Where staffs are concerned, they are very brief and bland.
Marcus McAuley says
DDF is not so bad. The prices are a bit steep but it
Jim says
One thing I like about DDF is that you have a wide variety of items to choose from and you have these cheerful sales people always ready to assist you.
ravi says
In Summary: DDF is no more a shoppers delight.
Goods are expensive
Filipino staff is no good.
Goods are damaged, kind of factory seconds.
Ishmael Bern says
I’m a frequent traveler & have been to 35 countries (including DDF) and still continue to travel. NEVER I’ve encountered any staff with an attitude. I believe if we, as customers will have patience & consideration, as well as respect to sales staff, they will in return give us a better service.
Puneet says
DDF is costlier than Hyderabad duty free when it comes to liquor. Thankfully, I didn’t purchase anything from DDF.
mark says
The airport is like a refugee camp. Overpriced goods and disinterested, moronic sales staff. I will gladly pay extra for my flight next time so I have a shorter connection time.
Saurabh India says
Thank you guys for all your comments! I’m going to Dubai. I will avoid shopping at DDF.
Carla says
On my way to my gate to catch my flight, I asked for a cup of cappuccino and a blueberry muffin from COSTA at the Dubai airport – they said $10! I couldn’t believe my ears! Gosh! It’s such a rip off! Of course I didn’t buy it.
utch says
About the rude, impolite Filipinos – it’s not just at the DDF – it’s all over Dubai! They have this huge chip on their shoulder. They emit such negative energy and make people uncomfortable. Buying from them is so depressing! It’s like they are always angry about something – even at church!
Yeldo Jacob says
The staff was so friendly and helpful to assist me to procure the items I need. Really excellent. I suggest to add the items & price on the internet; so that people can choose them well in advance.
ishrat ali khan says
I love Dubai. It is so beautiful. Dubai Duty Free is the most international and beautiful shopping center. I love to go there.
Jules says
I bought some items in Dubai. I was careful to buy at first especially given the comments on Filipino sales staff but I was impressed with their customer service and English skills. This is the reason why there are so many Filipinos in Dubai. I have no bias. I am an American
Mary says
Jules, good to know that you are impressed with Filipino sales staff and their English skills. Maybe you were treated very well but have you ever thought why was that so? Do you think, they treat all nationalities with same respect? Wish you were not American and also WHITE…doubt you still would had same comments!
sanjay kumar says
I only wish I had read this page before buying the Ipad2 at Dubai Duty Free. The unit has been locked and I have no way to get it replaced or fixed ! Every email gets a standard response that we will send it to our supplier for inspection. I don’t live in Dubai and now am struggling to send it over and have no clue what to expect. So guys beware before you buy any electronic items from there.
pankaj says
By going through the comments one thing that came out very strongly is that the sales staff are simply disgusting. These people should be trained as it reflects the image of country they are working. I hope Dubai rulers will not want there name to be tarnished due to such people.
Paul , Canada says
Horrible Filipino sales staff. They need to replace them with others who care about helping customers.
tariq s.africa says
DDF is better than any other airport in the world with good quality products, especially gold.
XDDF says
If you want to complain go directly to Customer.Service@ddf.ae. No use doing it here!!
Sarath, Colombo says
Also, remember not to buy any electrical items from any Duty Free – most are defective. The manufacturers sell them as ‘stock lots ‘ to duty free shops – knowing that very few will – or are able to return them!
Sarath, Colombo says
Customer service depends on what you look like. If you look like a South Asian ( Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi or Sri Lankan) expect the worse, irrespective of the airport or the country. It’s one of those unfortunate things . If you are born a South Asian learn to live with it.
Even if you are famous there is no escape. Remember what happened to Shah Ruk Khan? If you are white (or even black) you can expect the best customer service. Dubai is not too bad on the whole (I have been travelling through Dubai since 1983).
C Pande says
I am a frequent traveller and have visited the Dubai Duty Free at least 20 times in the past few years. The attitude of the sales staff, mostly Filipinos, is really bad.They really need training on dealing with customers.
Praveen Revankar says
The prices are really high, I bought a Nikon D3000 for EUR 369.00. Just checked the same model in DDF and the price was USD 618 $125.00 more on product
Niaz Rahman says
Dubai Duty Free has many Filipino staff who have a racist attitude to Indians and Pakistani. This must stop. Please train all your staff to behave properly. Regarding prices why do people complain? if you want to buy something urgent in the airport then buy it. If not then check prices all over the world, compare and buy. That’s what internet is for. As for me I love the ambience in the airport and it’s a cool place to grab a drink if I am coming out of Kuwait or Saudi or other alcohol banned countries.
james says
Bought a diamond ring for $600 and later wanted to return the same in my next trip as the size was incorrect. Buggers refused to exchange on the grounds that it had been worn. One should be careful in buying stuff from DDF.
Samantha Barry says
Filipinos in DDF are very rude and so impolite. They need more training and should master customer service.
Neil says
DDF is good but it depends on the exchange rates at the time! Just check at the currency exchange what the the rates are to the Dirham. If you’re from the UK then rates aren’t good at the moment. If you bought 2 years ago you would have got a bargain but now the pound is very low! If your from Australia you’re going to get a good deal now because the AUD is high. Just do the maths before you buy!
Dr. Shahzad Pakistan says
Prices are high in all airports. Dubai is no exception, No match to salespersons in UK, which is second only to Japan.
Philippe Moularde says
Amazing that there are still people buying at DDF.
Prices are simply nasty, from 10% (Rolex) to 50 % (Apple IPad) more expensive than the retailer price in EUROPE.
Forget the salesmen, simply arrogant.
VK says
Liquor is cheaper than any market. Buying nuts like almonds, walnut, etc. is cheaper. Gold is sold at actual gram rate (no making charges/wastages,etc.).
Sharif says
It is not true. Gold price in DDF includes making charge and ironically, the total price of a 10 gram chain is higher than the same product in Bangladesh.
bob,UK says
I lived in Dubai for several years and now reside back in the UK. Over the years I have travelled to DDF the change has been incredible and the airport now is a great place to spend a few hours waiting for a transfer.
Last year I travelled through Hong Kong and Dubai Duty Free is way way better.
The pricing in the shops can be a little high on some items, but I travel 6 months a year all over the globe and can honestly say DDF is no better or worse than any other airport in terms of pricing.
Most airports have wi-fi now a days so just check on line before purchasing.
I am amazed that people find the staff rude and ignorant. I have never been to an airport where they are not – try buying in Australia, USA, UK etc.. They are far far worse – in fact Sydney is a complete joke. Politeness is a rude word there!
I am always amazed how much time people are prepared to spend trying to rubbish something and how little time they a willing to spend offering a compliment.
Kate says
Oh… Duty Free in America is just awful. Horrible.
Brett Hamson Australia says
I have travelled internationally approximately a dozen times, different routes, different places and found Dubai to be one of the better airports and DDF to be on a par with anybody else in the world. The shops are clean, well stocked and the staff were all helpful and courteous. I enjoyed my transit time there and it has prompted me to look at a holiday there later in the year.
Saf. Whitstable says
Bought a notebook which I was told by sales staff had built in 3g connectivity. However on getting back to the UK discovered that the SIM card would not go into the slot provided as it was a dummy slot. As I travel to Dubai frequently I was back at DDF 10 days later and complained that the product was missold. They agreed to replace with another model or refund without any fuss.
Overall some of the sales staff are very knowledgeable, others are total numptys. Had I not been able to go back to DDF I am not sure how the situation might have been resolved.
I’d advise anyone buying from DDF to compare with prices back home before purchasing as prices are cheaper for certain products especially electronics. Items like cigarettes for obvious reasons are always cheaper at DDF than the UK.
Ideally have someone back home on-line to do a quick price check when you’re at the airport.
Gisela Johnsen says
10 years ago I would have agreed that DDF was the place to shop in regard to prices. These days you can just forget about it. I find the staff arrogant and incompetent. The lack of knowledge in the products they are selling is unbelievable. Customer service, polite manners – they don’t want to know about that, just far too arrogant. I fly via Dubai several times a year but I avoid the DDF and go straight to the lounge these days as DDF is a pure waste of time and nothing but a very upsetting and unpleasant experience in every way.
Salman says
Prices are horrible. Even Australia is cheaper. I asked them about a medicine, they told me 14 tablets for $25. Here in Australia you can easily get 30 tablets for $33. They are robbers. Avoid them at all cost.
James Last says
Prices are cheaper in Dubai city than at DDF. Again, in the UK, they are at times much cheaper. Staff at DDF is hopeless. I cannot imagine how the authorities concerned at DDF can ever tolerate such an attitude.
Anil GR says
I have found shops in Dubai are cheaper than Dubai Duty Free. Liquors are cheaper in India, Thailand & Sri Lanka duty frees than Dubai. Dubai Duty Free is good to go around, and a good bet is to buy a lottery ticket.
Raka says
I have compared "Sheridans" at DDF, Manchester Duty Free and Mumbai Duty Free and found Mumbai Duty Free is the cheapest option. DDF is worst for shopping and full of arrogant sales people.
Kamron says
I have been through Dubai several times in the last six years and have been tremendously disappointed with the service and prices of the items sold in the duty free shops. I bought some gifts, mostly perfume and cologne items for my cousins, and thought I was getting a good deal on these items but I later priced these items and found that I paid 3 to 4 times the price that I would have paid if I would have went to the mall. My opinion is to avoid these shops and don’t fall for supposed "duty-free; tax free" shopping.
Andrew Biss says
I bought some perfume in DDF and its £10 cheaper in UK, what a rip off!! I asked them how much the perfume was in pounds and they processed the card transaction THEN told me! I think they are trained to scam people? I’ll never shop there again!
JIM WADHURST says
Just made the error of purchasing a digital camera at DDF priced £118. I can buy the same in UK for £91, plus no problems with warranty if it goes wrong. Do not be deceived. Dubai Duty Free is no longer the place for bargains it used to be.
vineet says
Excellent place, with good staff all over.
Graham, Philippines says
Emirates airlines are superb, I have been flying with them and others circa 16 years, I have seen the changes in Dubai airport during these years. The duty free section has expanded tremendously, but has in my opinion become less value for money spent than it used to be. It is unfair to compare it with internet prices as their are little overheads involved with internet purchasing. I find the staff generally very courteous and well presented, especially in the perfumery outlets. Lack of knowledge in the tech outlets becomes very apparent through discussion with the staff. They are there to sell the goods only, which is a great let down for the purchaser. I now fly through Dubai every month and avoid the duty free heading straight to the business lounges for a little rnr before my onward flight. Duty free manager, there is a lot more you need to address.
Danny, Vancouver says
I travel through Dubai quite frequently and I agree that sales personnel at the duty free shops are quite pathetic at what they do. They are up to their neck with arrogance. I recommend duty free shopping at Changi International.
Paul, UK says
Bought the usual spirits and cigarettes on my way to Aus in 2008. Excellent prices and I dropped my bottle of gin which broke all over the floor. The staff were excellent, cleaned up and gave me a new bottle for free without question. Even though I had left the shop.
N, UK says
I loved Dubai Duty Free. It had everything that I wanted to buy at the last minute!
Michelle, Saudi Arabia says
One thing to watch at Dubai Duty Free is the sales staff incorrectly charging. I purchased two Clinque items of different value but staff scanned the higher priced product twice. My fault should have checked but incompetent and uninterested staff is what I have consistently found over the past 7 years. Tried to buy a camera once a number of years ago and there was a query on my HSBC credit card so instead of calling and verifying, the purchase was declined. My HSBC credit card was a nightmare anyway and was queried constantly by equally incompetent call centre people in India. Needless to say cut that card up as a bad joke. I agree the terminal over the years has been like a refugee camp. I rarely buy a thing in Dubai Duty Free these days.
FRANK, UK says
I purchased a digital camera in DDF .After a few months it stopped working and I sent it out for repairs with shipping fees. It was sent back exactly the same with no job card, comments nothing. Total scam! After reading so many comments regarding faults with electrical goods I will avoid it in future, and so should you.
Tess says
I agree with most of the comments. You pay less for some stuff but then you might easily get in trouble with the quality. The Samsung phone which I got two months ago from the duty free in Dubai broke and the local costumer service in the country I’m living in has refused to process the warranty. I’m really disappointed.
Carol, Bahrain says
Just got ripped off at Dubai Duty Free. Bought a Braun item for 325 AED, and am looking at the same item on Amazon UK for 30 GBP, which converted is 157 AED. More than 50% cheaper to buy in the UK.
murat says
Other than price issues has anyone experienced faulty merchandise as I have on a few occasions? I travel to Dubai at least 8 times a year and I always buy my kid something on the way back. I still have not purchased an electronic toy that was not damaged one way or the other. The latest were two DVD sets of a cartoon series; 18 discs in all with 5 episodes per disk. The same problem with all 18 disks!! Only the first episode on each disk had sound. The DVD
Willy says
Emirates Airline is superb but the DDF staff needs sales training.
istanbul dave says
Just browsing the many negative comments regarding DDF and I must say I agree with most of them. I travel through Dubai many times over a year and have been tempted only a couple of time to purchase as I was 1. forgetful and this was a last chance and 2. Lazy… On both occasions my purchase was found a few days later always cheaper elsewhere….. Can Mr Muntazir please explain how he orders items from DDF as the website does allow this but only for raffle tickets…. Wouldn’t use the service but was just curious?
Ajoy Vijayan says
I found Dubai Duty Free a good place to shop for the last minute gifts and dvd’s. Maybe the selling price is higher than for the same product in Dubai Malls but I don’t complain as I forgot to get those items earlier.
Johnny says
I travel through Dubai at least once a month since 2004. I’ve never seen such arrogant and non-commercial people who are working as salespersons, especially the Filipino who are the most arrogant and the most stupid also. Once wanting to buy a diamond ring (0,7carat) was such a hideous task that I decided to go out and bought it cheaper than in the DDF and of course less tension with the salespersons, often young inexperienced poor Filipino. Sometimes it is worth taking a half day off and go to a hypermarket than waiting to buy from the DDF where nobody cares for you.
M , Warwickshire says
I have been travelling with Emirates since 2006 and the in-flight service is pretty decent. My impression about the Duty Free is however different. I got a rude awakening the very first time I was there. I’d just like to say how incomprehensibly rude and moronic the sales staff are at the gold shop.
I’m about to fly Emirates again in few months and this time I’m in good mind of making a complaint if I come across ignorant/rude staff.
caline says
I have been travelling from Australia every year to the UK for the last 12 years. After trialling many airlines/duty frees, I can say Emirates Airlines is THE BEST and I would not go with anyone else. However (there’s always a but) the duty free is hopeless in terms of service. They are so uninterested and uneducated about their products and just plain rude. Now I just head for the lounge.
Omar says
Other than price issues has anyone experienced faulty merchandise as I have on a few occasions? I travel to Dubai at least 8 times a year and I always buy my kid something on the way back. I still have not purchased an electronic toy that was not damaged one way or the other. The latest were two DVD sets of a cartoon series; 18 discs in all with 5 episodes per disk. The same problem with all 18 disks!! Only the first episode on each disk had sound. The DVD
Maimy says
Dubai Duty Free is actually the biggest duty free i’ve seen so far… i’ve experienced buying somewhere also like singapore, greece etc., Dubai Duty Free is the best! I think you find the price expensive because of the low exchange rate but when you transact with your card or you pay with their currency, you’ll find it cheaper than other duty free. With regards to customer service, it was really great actually… I’ve encountered professionals and knowledgeable staffs in perfume area. I think, staff gesture, in return, depends on the attitude of their customers also… anyway, we all have different personalities.
myka says
DDF has a cheap prices compared to other duty free shops. Only the electronics seem a little bit high priced.
Nasser, Dubai says
I’ve heard that every year on December 20th (the birthday of DDF), they discount products by how ‘old’ the DDF is – this year it will be 25%. Does anyone know if this applies to all products or, just selected products?
ithink says
I AGREE! Dubai duty free is a scam! especially on the latest gadgets like Wii and PS3, I find London Heathrow and Singapore much cheaper than Dubai. In Dubai the shops make money on the notion that people in Dubai don’t pay tax and the duty free must be super cheap.
Do not waste your time!
And as you can see 85% of this bloggers here are saying the same thing.
kaiser , UK says
The Dubai Duty free shop is not bad, but I prefer Heathrow duty free. Even though they are bit more expensive, they are friendly and knowledgeable. DDF would have been excellent except for their half witted customer service, their lack of knowledge on the products they sell, and their half witted illiterate salesperson, who can speak barely any English.
Ian Kelly says
I have been through DDF 3 times in the last 6 months. My experiences so far have been excellent.
Most items are competively priced (compared to Europe) and the service has been very good. I especially like the free gift wrap service.
barry says
My flight with Emirates was excellent and I got first class service. The prices of alcohol and tobacco at DDF are the cheapest I have found.
Raul says
Dubai Duty Free is the worst. They make claims of surpassing their previous sales record but that will happen since so many passengers use the airport. However, try comparing the average spending per passenger. I can assure you that even Oman will surpass. Also, the website has been made by some loser. So many duty frees offer services like online booking of stuff and prices etc but Dubai Duty free website is historic. Unfriendly and arrogant staff as well as airport officials and the general atmosphere is that of a 3rd rated shopping mall. Recommendation: don’t buy anything, head for the Emirates Lounge.
Paul, Bristol says
I want to buy a Sony HDR-CX12, but like everyone else, we can only price up raffle tickets from the web site. What a joke. I must say I fly all the time and Emirates are by far the best, but their ‘hub’ airport is nothing more than a second rate shopping mall. PS. I if newer electronics at a cheaper rate at London Heathrow. I also get proper guarentees and decent staff, so shop there! PPS, Hope Emirates opens a route to Bristol soon.
Jay Mody says
Dubai Duty Free is worst in the world. It’s expensive plus the staff is also uneducated about the products. Indian duty free is cheaper than Dubai. 1ltr Black Label in Dubai $32 and in India is $29. Chivas Regal in Dubai is $39 and India 2 for $52. All cosmetics and perfumes are also 25% expensive than city malls . The only things cheap at DDF are tobacco and cigarettes.
Editor says
Hmm Jo. Dubai isn’t in Europe.
Jo Bower, Chester says
I don’t know about electronics but I know that cosmetics, perfume and cigarettes are the cheapest I have found in any airport in Europe.
Kurian says
Be aware. It is really overpriced. I bought a Kodak M1033 camera last week for US$270.00. Just checked the web and the average price is $189.00 in Tigerdirect and all other retailers. $100.00 more on a $200.00 product! Wow what a killing.
Jaycee, India says
You can get better bargains in the Dubai shops. Visit the Gold Souk (market) area for better choices and prices. DDF staff are ignorant of products, rules and regulations of carrying duty free items into other countries and not at all customer friendly. Moreover they are also racial in their approach towards Asians in general.
Ian Tivey says
Apologies to Dubai Duty Free but they did respond within 24 hours but the email went to my junk mail folder.
Ian Tivey says
Another victim here of the "alcohol not in sealed bag" problem, as my duty free was confiscated during transit in Bahrain. My email to DDF has gone into a black hole despite 13 names listed on their "contact us" page.
Sheldon says
I fly 17-25 times a year with a number of airlines and must say that Emirates as an airline are very, no extremely professional. It is a pleasure to fly with the amazing staff and their friendly service. I will say that it is the shop in Dubai that lets them down. I have seen some items cheaper on the UK high streets, been served better by 5 year olds at a lemonade stand and my overall impression of Dubai Duty Free is that it is a trap for those that are stuck in the airport which, yes is at times like refugee camp. Fly with Emirates and I guarantee you will love it, but in the airport grab a coffee, find the Emirates lounge and read a good book.
ORIMA JAMES says
The DDF is actually much cheaper than London or back home in Uganda. The perfumes are greatly discounted.
abhay says
I wanted to buy some gold but the staff were not interested in selling small items at all. They totally ignored me and my wife. Customer service is very poor in the gold shop. Not recommended.
Laura says
I bought a carton of Marlboro cigarettes for $13.25. This is significantly cheaper than in the US which is currently at around $40.00 a carton.
Gary, Leeds says
Swarovski crystal is a lot cheaper in DDF than it is in Europe, but inspect the piece thoroughly before concluding the sale. We bought the Orchids and the Unicorn and the sales assistant had to bring four boxes of each as the first three were all damaged.
james memery says
I bought 4 bottles of spirits at Dubai Duty Free. One was a Martell XO brandy. They placed the bottles in Dubai Duty Free bags. I got a flight to Amsterdam in transit to Dublin. The goods where seized as they should have being sealed in special bags. On the KLM flight to Holland there was no security problem! I was not advised anywhere about security from European airports. If I had known, I could have the bottles in my bag and checked it in as hand baggage. What moron thought up this security procedure?
Alex says
DDF is a waste of space as are the people working there. Avoid the place like the plague. Staff are surly, unhelpful and completely incompetent.
I am travelling with Emirates later this month much against my will. Last trip with them was a disaster and their staff were just as unhelpful as the ones in DDF. I wrote a letter of complaint to them but they did not have the courtesy to reply.
Sharif says
They never reply.
Ol' Jim, hisself says
I bought some inexpensive concentrated perfume in fancy bottles. Reasonable prices, and I cannot find them anywhere else. Not worth the $700 to travel from Baghdad, however.
Michael, Bangkok says
I was thinking of buying some gold while in transit when I soon return to Europe from Bangkok, but the comments here made me change my mind. Dubai Duty Free is NOT what it used to be, and the monumental mess and noise and inconvenience is only adding to the fatigue of compulsory transit (I spent about 2 hrs on my way out a month or so ago). All this makes one the easiest prey for the scruple less and often tired, incompetent or naturally arrogant attendants. Forget it.
paul says
I went to Dubai Duty Free recently. I bought perfumes and nuts. I wanted to buy some gold but the staff were not interested in selling at all. They totally ignored me and my wife. Customer service is very poor in the gold shop. Not recommended.
Orion says
I would like to see a mega music store in DDF, a toy shop selling collectors’ aircraft (Corgi/Franklin Mint), and an ice-cream shop selling Rum n Raisin. This flavour is not available in the Gulf.
Chris says
I bought a Philips Arcitec electric shaver from Dubai Duty Free only to be stopped at security for my onward connection in Paris as the shaver contains liquid.
I am very disappointed in DDF that the staff are not trained well enough to have known that this would be a problem. Surely they should know the contents of the items that they sell.
Suresh says
If you are a Internet shopper, you know it is much cheaper here in UK on-line than in Dubai duty free. Big difference is after sales customer service if you are buying expensive items. In the UK everyone knows the rules & regulations are very strict and consumer friendly so I wouldn’t bother buying big stuff from DDF.
Harry P says
Dubai Duty Free is for harried and forgetful people like me. It is not for diligent shoppers who can and will spot similar (if not the same) deals anywhere. The principle of pricing is universal and any person who has a good sense of buying through the internet will easily see that high street prices are almost always higher by about 30 to 40 percent. DUBAI DUTY FREE WILL NOT BE SIGNIFICANTLY CHEAPER THAN INTERNET SHOPPING especially SALES etc.
The biggest advantage for the shopper is that you can conveniently forget to buy those silly gifts for your loved ones and make up the loss by purchasing them at the last moment and saving your skin. Disadvantages – well as many have pointed out : once you buy, there is no return!
Kulas says
I spend 5 hours on the internet everyday looking and comparing prices. I have not seen any price list on the net for Dubai Duty Free (except for the raffle tickets). This guy Muntazir is lying. Some items In Bahrain duty free are cheaper than Dubai.
Alex says
I found Dubai airport shops overpriced and the staff hopeless.
Editor says
Matt, perhaps it is because I don’t work for Dubai Duty Free and am not connected with them. So why should I be held accountable for, or have to answer their alleged failings? If I can answer a straightforward question I’m glad to help out.
matt says
After reading these posts I can’t help but wonder why the editor responds to questions regarding opening hours etc. but not to consumer complaints. Editor, can you please explain this to us?
Dubai res says
I fly from this airport regularly, crowded and at times it’s like a refugee camp. It’s cheaper to shop in Dubai, the duty free is a rip off, Thailand’s King Power is cheaper, believe me I live here. The staff are clueless, they nothing about the products that are on sale, this is due to their high turnover and being paid peanuts. anyone who thinks this is a paradise are saying a lot about where they come from. I cant help but think the people posting good points here are actually Emiratis or work for Emirates.
Doug Mack says
I have been travelling through Dubai for several years now. Here are my thoughts on DDF. Anything electronic is generally 6 – 12 months behind the rest of the world. Their prices are usually higher than most other airport DF zones. They don’t know their products nor have any interest in finding out about them. Emirates is opening a new terminal and should be operational by the end of this year, 2008. Hopefully things will improve otherwise it will be more of the same except on a massive scale.
John, Cambridgeshire says
I spent ages in DDF looking at compact cameras, and when I decided which one to get I was told it wasn’t in stock. Why didn’t they tell me that earlier when I was asking about it?
The staff didn’t know very much about their products either.
Barry says
Arrived back in UK yesterday having bought an MP3 player at Dubai Duty Free. Before buying I specifically asked the assistant dealing with audio equipment whether the player that I wanted to buy would play music files from itunes (AAC format). He said "Yes" so I bought the player. I opened the box today and the instructions specifically state that it does not play AAC files. The player is of no use to me. I was mis-sold and am disappointed and annoyed.
Alex Green says
Dubai Duty Free is NOT cheap! It may be cheaper than in London, but that’s not saying much. For an over-hyped store it has no useful website and the prices and items remain a mystery.
Bogdan/Romania says
Very nice airport with a multitude of gifts for everyone.
Sachin says
A wonderful place to be in. Simply electrifying.
Svetlana,Moscow says
Thanks for the answer. With the best regards
Editor says
Svetlana – DDF is open 24 hours, as noted in the listing.
Svetlana,Moscow says
What are the business hours of Dubai Duty Free? We have 3 hours between flights, but at night.
thriftee@gmail.com says
Last night at Dubai Duty Free I purchased two bottles of alcohol. I had no worries as the staff at the alcohol store at the Duty Free reassured me, I
could take up to 2 litres into Brunei as hand luggage.
This afternoon something very unpleasant happened at the Brunei Airport. They confiscated all my alcohol saying it was illegal to bring alcohol in hand
luggage!
I wish the DDF ground staff had been more responsible in advising me. I clearly recollect the cashier at the Liquors and Tobacco Shop telling me "no worries you can take it in, many people do." I still have the receipt and can confirm my actions.
I understand as a Duty Free increasing sales is the priority. But please to not neglect your fans. I am a PR of Singapore and I absolutely love Dubai but I am deeply betrayed by how little responsibility the staff seem to be taking. I buy alcohol often and never have I been humiliated and had my stuff confiscated before.
MAXIMILIAN says
I have travelled with a lot of airlines and have found Emirates are the best. Also shopping at DUBAI airport is cheaper than other airports. I personally recommend Emirates to anyone. Thank you Emirates for the safe and pleasant flights I have experienced.
Houman K says
Muntazir Al Mahdi
You cannot check any Dubai Duty Free prices on Internet. Neither can you let them be delivered to you. If you can order on-line, how is that duty free? You are just lying and telling here stories to people. Shame on you!
The same story about you cannot find anything in Iran. You get everything in Tehran’s shopping centres. Are you doing here just some pan-Arabist propaganda again?
Sara says
I agree with Raj Kanwal, I am trying to find prices on-line but no luck. I was trying to find Chanel Sunglasses at DDF but to my surprise they don’t have a Chanel counter.
Robert says
The Dubai Duty Free website only gives you basic information. The only thing you can actually buy is tickets for the cars you can win. There is no information on actual DDF items i.e. prices, availability etc.
danny says
Well I agree with the statement Raj Kanwal has made. Go on ‘Dubai Duty Free’ take the challenge and publish the prices of your goods, and let have honesty and transparency. Let the shoppers be able to compare prices.
langmead says
How does Muntazir Al Mahdi manage to order from DDF? There is no website for ordering or even to find out if there is stock?
jango says
The Dubai Duty Free customer service is excellent and has achieved world class standards. Hats off to you folks.
Raj kanwal says
Well if they are so cheap than U.K. or elsewhere why not publish the prices on their website so travellers like me can compare the prices. The truth is that if you buy from U.K. through sales and deals, you get lot cheaper than dubai duty free.
beatrice atek says
Marvellous place for shopping. Will from now on only travel with Emirates.
waseem says
Just one word, ‘ Marvellous!
bilal sheikh says
Dubai is a very cheap and the best place for shopping. It’s a lot cheaper than London.
Editor says
The company will open an 11,000 sq m store at Concourse 2, Terminal 3 (late 2007).
Muntazir Al Mahdi says
I order all my stuff from Dubai Duty Free Shop (DDFS). Chocolates, Electronics, CD’s & DVD’s, Novels and all other stuff! Back home (Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania – East Africa) is just too damn expensive! Currently I’m in Iran, and I don’t get nothing here so I order all my stuff from DDFS. You do the same!
Adrian Sleeman says
I bought a superb Swiss made watch at Dubai Duty free for a fraction of what it would have cost me in the UK.
Mike, Bristol says
Personally I found that Dubai Duty Free is a lot cheaper than the duty free shops at UK airports. They also have a better choice.