Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed Pays Tribute to Colm McLoughlin

Dubai’s community mourned the passing of Colm McLoughlin, former CEO of Dubai Duty Free (DDF), as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, honored McLoughlin’s transformative legacy.

McLoughlin, who passed away on October 30 at age 81, was recognized by Sheikh Mohammed as a “visionary” who elevated DDF to global prominence over his more than 40-year tenure.

Originally from Ireland, McLoughlin was instrumental in building Dubai Duty Free into a renowned $2-billion enterprise with over 6,000 employees.

His dedication and approachable nature left a lasting impression. “Colm was an inspiring and humble figure, one of the beautiful faces of Dubai and a brilliant mind with a kind and loving heart,” Sheikh Mohammed shared in a tribute on X.

Known for his close ties with his team, McLoughlin was beloved by many. Indian expat KU Hashim, a longtime DDF employee, recalled how approachable McLoughlin was:

“He treated each staff member like family; anyone could go to him with anything, and he would listen.”

McLoughlin began his journey with DDF as part of an original consultancy team from Ireland’s Aer Rianta, commissioned by the Dubai government in 1983 to establish the new duty-free operation.

After 55 years in the travel retail industry, he retired as executive vice chairman and CEO in May this year, passing away shortly after in the UK at age 81.