Ramesh Cidambi

Ramesh Cidambi was appointed Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free effective 1 June 2024, reporting directly to H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Duty Free.

Prior to this, Ramesh spent eight years as the retailer’s Chief Operating Officer, responsible for all aspects of the company’s operation.

He joined the company in 1988 as head of the IT division. Over the years he took on a variety of senior positions with responsibility for areas such as logistics and overseeing the major retail developments at both of Dubai’s airports, covering over 40,000 sq m of retail space. Ramesh also oversees the Dubai Duty Free Leisure business through Jumeirah Creekside Hotel and The Irish Village Bar and Restaurant (in two locations), Century Village and the Dubai Duty Free Stadium.

During his 36-year tenure, Dubai Duty Free has grown to be one of the world’s largest airport retailers in a single location with sales of US$2.16 billion in 2023.

Ramesh maintains his links with the domestic retail market through the chairmanship of a Merchants Advisory Board and as a treasurer of Dubai’s Retail Business Group.

His primary leisure interests are sailing (with his wife Alpana) and the practice of Iyengar yoga.