Our regular feature, brought to you in association with Duty Free Global from Ireland, celebrates memorable scenes, moments, launches and campaigns related to the global aviation and travel retail sphere.
MIDDLE EAST. Today’s images were shared by Bahrain Global Leaders and Arab Icons, spotlighting two outstanding women in travel retail – Muscat Duty Free COO Aisha Al Habsi and ARI Middle East Head of Planning & Design and ESG Lead Tracy Ross.
Al Habsi has been instrumental in driving the Omani travel retailer’s operational success and business growth. In a social media post, Arab Icons noted: “Where others react to challenges, Aisha Al Habsi anticipates, adapts and accelerates success.”
Al Habsi leads with a focus on efficiency, customer experience and execution, overseeing daily end-to-end operations across supply chain, inventory, retail performance and service delivery.
Her analytical approach, collaborative leadership and forward-looking decision-making translate strategy into results, enhancing operational performance, resilience and continuous improvement.
Through her leadership, Al Habsi aligns the organisation with current demands while anticipating future trends, driving sustainable growth and delivering value to both customers and stakeholders.
With 35 years of design experience, Tracy Ross has been recognised by Bahrain Global Leaders as a visionary leader in design and sustainability and a prominent figure within its network.
Bahrain Global Leaders noted, “We celebrate Tracy Ross’ leadership in sustainable design, her commitment to innovation and human-centered experiences, and her impactful contributions to shaping the future of travel retail environments.”
Her career includes more than two decades in travel retail design and implementation. At ARI, she guides creative direction and oversees the delivery of human-focused, sustainable retail environments.
Deepening her commitment to sustainability within the travel retail and aviation ecosystem, she has also served as ANARA WG6 Team Leader with Airports Council International.
Her early career encompasses leadership and entrepreneurial roles, including Company Owner at Ross Designs and Partner in Ross Designs with AS-Shop, along with senior design positions across South Africa, Mauritius and the Middle East. These diverse roles established her foundation in interior design, project management and retail environments.
Ross also holds a National Diploma in Interior Design from Witwatersrand Technikon and is a certified LEED Green Associate (US Green Building Council), with additional certifications in sustainability, circular economy and project management. ✈
