The late Colm McLoughlin. DUBAI DUTY FREE

Tributes have poured in for Colm McLoughlin, former CEO and executive vice chairman of Dubai Duty Free (DDF), who died in the UK on October 30, at age 81. He is survived by his wife, Breeda, daughters Tyna and Mandy, and son Niall. McLoughlin, who retired in May, was a pioneer in the global duty-free industry and a prominent figure in Dubai’s retail sector, launching DDF in 1983 and turning it into one of the world’s leading airport retailers. In a statement, Dubai Duty Free honored McLoughlin’s remarkable contributions. Dubai Airports (DXB) also paid tribute on social media, describing him as “a distinguished leader and beloved figure.” The tweet read: “Colm’s warmth, wisdom, and dedication over the decades have inspired many in our industry and beyond. Our deepest sympathies to his family and our friends at DDF.” In Abu Dhabi, the Embassy of Ireland issued a statement, saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Colm McLoughlin. Colm was a truly cherished member of our Irish community and leaves behind an incredible legacy. He will be greatly missed by us all. Deepest sympathies to his family and all at DDF.” Dubai Celts also paid tribute to McLoughlin, whom they said “has been instrumental in helping our club grow from strength to strength.” “Over the course of his career in the Middle East he has directly and indirectly impacted the lives of thousands of Irish men and women who have found a home away from home as part of our club and other Gaelic games clubs in the region. Words cannot describe the appreciation we have for Colm and we offer his family, his friends and his organization Dubai Duty Free our deepest condolences,” the club said in a statement. Malachy Mulhall, former Chairperson of Dubai Celts and friend of McLoughlin, said, “Not only was he a complete gentleman, but he was a true friend to the Dubai Celts and to Gaelic sports generally in the region.” Social media was also flooded by posts from Filipino employees at DDF who worked with McLoughlin, with many calling him the “best boss ever”. “I’m glad I was able to tell you personally how grateful I am to have you as our boss. Your leadership and compassion meant a lot to us. May your soul rest in eternal peace. We will miss you EVC, the OG of Dubai Duty Free,” Ela Acar wrote. “After over 40 years of dedication, only a few months into retirement, and now he's gone. Thank you, boss, for everything you did for Dubai Duty Free and for your kindness and generosity to all your staff. You were truly loved by everyone. Rest in peace, Mr. Colm McLoughlin,” Baeby Arya wrote with a crying emoticon. In a 2023 interview, McLoughlin reflected on his decision to dedicate his career to Dubai Duty Free. “I never thought about going anywhere else,” he shared, adding, “Dubai has been my home, and I enjoyed the freedom given to do my job.” His strong commitment and the trust placed in him by UAE leaders helped him create a unique company culture at DDF. Under McLoughlin’s leadership, DDF grew exponentially, reaching annual sales of Dh7.8 billion and processing over 21 million transactions in 2023. With an emphasis on promoting employees from within, he fostered a supportive workplace, fondly referring to the management team as the “dream team.” Born in Ireland, McLoughlin began his duty-free career at Shannon Airport, the world’s first duty-free zone, before being invited to Dubai. He transformed DDF into a global icon, embodying the growth and ambition of Dubai’s vision. His impact will be remembered by generations in Dubai and beyond. ICA/Expat Media
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