H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan, the Indian Consul General to Dubai (centre) joined the Dubai Duty leadership team (from left): Senior Vice President – Purchasing Sharon Beecham; Senior Vice President – Retail, Michael Schmidt; Senior Vice President – Loss Prevention & Corporate Security Zayed Al Shebli; Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi; Deputy Managing Director Salah Tahlak; Senior Vice President – Human Resources Mona Al Ali; and Senior Vice President – Marketing Sinead El Sibai

Dubai Duty Free once again showcased its commitment to cultural diversity and customer engagement with a lively celebration marking the Hindu festival of Diwali at Dubai International Airport’s Concourse B.

The annual event, a fixture in the retailer’s calendar, drew an enthusiastic crowd of travellers and staff and was graced by H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan, the Indian Consul General to Dubai.

Welcomed by Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi and members of the retailer’s senior management team, His Excellency was greeted with flower garlands by Indian staff dressed in traditional attire – a gesture reflecting both hospitality and heritage.

The festivities began with the ceremonial lighting of the diya, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, followed by a colourful Indian dance performance that infused the concourse with vibrant energy, music and joy.

Speaking at the event, Cidambi highlighted the enduring relationship between Dubai Duty Free and the Indian community: “We are extremely happy to be joined once again by H.E. Satish Kumar Sivan in celebrating the Diwali Festival at Dubai Duty Free. Despite his busy schedule, it has become something of a tradition for him to start the Diwali celebrations with us. Over the past two years, His Excellency has been an incredible supporter of the Indian community in the UAE.”

H.E. Sivan expressed his appreciation for the retailer’s annual initiative, noting how Dubai Duty Free continues to enrich the travel experience at one of the world’s busiest airports: “It’s always a pleasure to be here – I’m a regular at the airport, and I’ve witnessed many happy moments shared by travellers. You truly illuminate everyone’s life, and it’s fitting that we begin the festive season with Diwali. My heartfelt salutation goes to all the wonderful staff at Dubai Duty Free for bringing joy to millions of travellers. Happy Diwali to all!”

The Diwali celebrations included a traditional Indian dance performance.

Following remarks from Deputy Managing Director Salah Tahlak, who acknowledged the significance of the occasion for Indian staff, travellers and the wider community, the ceremony concluded with a cake-cutting and group photo session.

In line with the festivities, Dubai Duty Free rolled out a series of Diwali-themed promotions and in-store activations designed to enhance the shopping experience. Among the highlights is a special draw giving travellers the chance to win one of four limited-edition Dubai Duty Free 40th Anniversary 10-gram gold bars, a promotion symbolising the prosperity and good fortune associated with the Festival of Lights.

Dubai Duty Free has long showcased its commitment to cultural diversity.

Shoppers are also being treated to a wide range of “Diwali Special Offers” across key product categories including fragrances, jewellery, premium confectionery and select liquor brands.

The combination of cultural celebration, exclusive promotions and a festive in-store atmosphere underscores Dubai Duty Free’s enduring reputation for blending retail excellence with meaningful customer engagement.

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