MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA. Welcome to The Moodie Davitt Magazine for November 2026, in which we focus on the latest developments in the Middle East and Africa travel retail markets.
We are also pleased to publish the latest in our Category Insight series, this time dedicated to Tobacco and Reduced-Risk Products.
This edition is mailed to our worldwide audience in digital format, with hard copies available to delegates at the Middle East & Africa Duty Free Association (MEADFA) Conference in Rabat on 15-17 November.
MEADFA President Abdeslam Agzoul offers a neat summary of where the regional industry finds itself following eight months of war-related turbulence and the uncertainty that brings with it.
“The situation in our region is volatile and is likely to remain so in the foreseeable future. That forces our industry to be as agile as possible, and to intensify the collaboration we have seen through the recent months so we are ready as the rebound accelerates.” Regional volatility, which appears more acute than ever in recent days, will be among the big topics of conversation during this week’s MEADFA event.
Our cover story features an update on Qatar Duty Free’s plans and strategy led by a trio of priorities around marketing, ecommerce and loyalty.
In our interviews with players ranging from Qatar Duty Free and Dubai Duty Free to ARI and Avolta, and from Gebr. Heinemann to Lagardère Travel Retail, the message emerges that the mindset to investment remains strong even if each business must adapt and manage in the short term.
Alongside interviews with leading travel retailers, we carry a special focus on leading Gulf hubs including Dubai International Airport and Zayed International Airport, with commentary from Dubai Airports and Abu Dhabi Airports commercial leadership respectively.
Our annual Category Insight on Tobacco & Reduced-Risk Products, which accompanies the main issue, shines a light on a vital core segment of the business in travel retail.
Please enjoy this issue with our compliments and we look forward to meeting many of our readers for what promises to be a memorable MEADFA Conference in Rabat. ✈
