MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA. The Middle East & Africa Duty Free Association (MEADFA) has opened entries for the latest edition of its annual awards programme, which recognises excellence among companies and individuals across the regional industry community.
The fifth edition of the awards comes as the association celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
A statement said, “Since its establishment in 2001, MEADFA has witnessed the transformation of travel retail across the Middle East and Africa, from the emergence of world-leading airport retail destinations to the expansion of travel retail opportunities throughout the African continent.
“The Awards recognise the individuals and organisations whose vision, commitment and innovation continue to shape the future of the industry.”
MEADFA President Abdeslam Agzoul said: “As MEADFA celebrates its 25th anniversary, it is fitting that we recognise the people, brands, retailers and partners whose vision, innovation and commitment continue to strengthen our industry.
“The MEADFA Awards provide an opportunity to showcase success stories from across our region and to celebrate those who are helping shape the future of travel retail.”
MEADFA Awards Committee Chair Dr. Bernard Creed added: “As we launch the fifth edition of the MEADFA Awards, we encourage companies across the region to take part and share the initiatives, achievements and innovations that have made a difference to their businesses and our industry.
“The quality of submissions continues to improve year after year, reflecting the remarkable talent, creativity and resilience that exists across the Middle East and Africa travel retail community.”
Entries are invited across the following categories:
- Best Retailer Award
- Best in Marketing Strategy Award
- Sustainability & CSR Award
- Customer & Supplier Award
In addition, the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by MEADFA is a special honour that recognises an exceptional leader whose influence, leadership and commitment have left a lasting impact on the industry’s culture, sustainability, strategy and growth.
All submissions will be evaluated by an independent panel of international industry experts, said MEADFA, to ensure “a transparent and impartial judging process”.
The winners will be announced during the MEADFA Conference 2026, which takes place from 15 to 17 November 2026 at the Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr, Morocco.
Click here for our coverage of MEADFA 2025 including the MEADFA Awards.
Key dates
- Submission Deadline: 30 September 2026
- Preliminary Review: By 8 October 2026
- Final Jury Review & Winner Selection: By 19 October 2026
- Awards Ceremony: 16 November 2026
Companies interested in participating can obtain the Awards Procedures Document and Submission Form by contacting MEADFA at info@meadfa.com or by visiting www.meadfa.com ✈
