The newly elected MEADFA President, Abdeslam Agzoul, and Vice President Chichi Maponya.

The Middle East & Africa Duty Free Association (MEADFA) has announced that Abdeslam Agzoul has been elected President and Chichi Maponya elected Vice President by the Board, to serve for the remainder of the 2025–2027 term.

The news comes following Rob Marriott’s resignation from his role as CEO of Aer Rianta International Middle East (ARIME) and, subsequently, from his position as MEADFA President, in accordance with the Association’s statutes.

Marriott served as MEADFA President since March 2025, having previously held the roles of Vice-President and Chair of the Advocacy Committee.

In a press statement from MEADFA, the Board extended its appreciation to Marriott for his leadership and service and wished him all the best in his future endeavours.

“I remain deeply appreciative of the trust placed in me by my fellow Board members,” commented Marriott.

“It has been a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated professionals, and to contribute to the development of our industry in the Middle East and Africa.”

At the MEADFA Board Meeting held on 10 June 2025, the Board elected Abdeslam Agzoul, CEO Middle East and Africa at Avolta, as President to lead the Association through its next chapter. (Agzoul was previously elected Vice President for the 2025-2027 term).

Agzoul brings over 20 years’ experience in travel food & beverage and retail to the fore. On his new position as President, he said: “I step into this role with a deep sense of commitment to our industry and this region and thank the MEADFA Board for their trust.

“MEADFA has a unique opportunity to grow stronger, more inclusive, and more strategic in its purpose.

“Together with the Board and our members, I look forward to reinforcing our advocacy, expanding our membership, driving transformative impact across ESG priorities and delivering long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Joining him in the leadership team is Chichi Maponya, Co-founder and Executive Chairperson of Africa Travel Retail, who has been elected Vice President.

“This role is both an honour and a responsibility I take on with great dedication,” said Maponya,  who previously served on the Advocacy Committee.

“I am committed to advancing diversity, innovation, and cohesion within MEADFA. Our region is rich in talent and opportunity, and I believe MEADFA must continue to reflect this diversity while fostering stronger cross-market collaboration.

“I look forward to supporting the President and the Board in delivering on MEADFA’s strategic vision.”

ARI’s Nuno Amaral has been appointed Chair of the MEADFA Advocacy Committee.

Nuno Amaral, CEO ARI-Middle East and Global Chief Operations Officer, has been appointed Chair of the MEADFA Advocacy Committee.

The MEADFA Board was first elected in March 2025 for the 2025–2027 term. The updated are now in effect and will remain until the next elections in 2027.

READ MORE: MEADFA announces new leadership; ARIME’s Rob Marriott elected President

READ MORE: MEADFA Conference in Abu Dhabi attracts more than 550 delegates

READ MORE: Lagardère Travel Retail scoops Best Retailer accolade at MEADFA Awards