QATAR. Qatar Duty Free (QDF) has saluted a week of achievement at TFWA World Exhibition and hailed the support and collaboration it received from brand partners, media and other industry colleagues in Cannes, as it celebrated its 25th anniversary year.
Qatar Duty Free partnered with Katara Hospitality and the Carlton Cannes to host an intimate 25th anniversary lunch at the hotel’s Ruya restaurant. The event celebrated QDF’s journey to date, honoured the close relationships that have fuelled the company’s success while looking with optimism towards the future. Friends and partners joined in celebrating the occasion as Qatar Duty Free shared its vision for the years ahead.
QDF said it was also proud to receive broad recognition from across the travel retail industry. The company was named Beauty Retailer of the Year at the BW Confidential Beauty Party 2025 and took home Best Airport Retail Initiative at the Global Travel Retail Awards 2025 for its immersive Live the F1 Life campaign at Hamad International Airport.
The highlight of the week, the company noted, was the Frontier Awards 2025. Qatar Duty Free was named Airport Retailer of the Year for the third consecutive year. The company also won Best Specialty Concept – Hybrid & F&B for Souq Al Matar and Retail Activation of the Year for Live the F1 Life.
A QDF statement said: “These prestigious recognitions pay tribute to the creative spirit and teamwork of the QDF family and its brand partners, who continually work together to raise the bar in global travel retail.”
QDF’s celebrations extended into a vibrant Frontier Awards after party at Palm Beach, where guests enjoyed a lively atmosphere and a 25th anniversary cake crafted by Lenôtre Pastry Chef and World Pastry Champion Étienne Leroy.
The evening reached a crescendo with a surprise headline performance from British music legend and two-time Grammy nominee Craig David.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer Thabet Musleh said: “We are deeply grateful to our brand partners, media friends and colleagues for joining us in Cannes and supporting Qatar Duty Free throughout this incredible week of anniversary moments.
“From warm exchanges shared during our 25th anniversary luncheon to the excitement of the Frontier Awards and the joy of celebrating together at the after party, it has been a week to remember. Winning these awards, especially in such a milestone year, reflects the passion, creativity and collaboration shared by our exceptional team and our partners.
“We look forward to carrying this momentum forward as we continue to redefine travel retail experiences at Hamad International Airport and beyond.”
*Click here for our rolling coverage of TFWA World Exhibition last week, which featured the key awards won by Qatar Duty Free. ✈
