'Dubai chocolate' accounts for 4% of Dubai Duty Free's April revenue

Dubai’s viral pistachio-filled chocolate bars are driving up revenue at Dubai Duty Free, accounting for 4 per cent of the total business in April.

Speaking to Dubai Eye 103.8's Business Breakfast show, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free Ramesh Cidambi said the chocolate represents 40 per cent of all confectionery sales during the month.

In April, Dubai Duty Free welcomed sales worth AED713 million ($195.4 million), representing an 18 per cent increase over the same period the previous year. The revenue positions April as the fourth best month on record for the airport retailer since operations began.

Originally launched by Fix in 2021, the Kunafa chocolate trend has gone viral with multiple brands offering its versions, even contributing to a global pistachio shortage. 

At Dubai Duty Free, Chidami said at least five brands are offering the chocolate bars to meet the 1 million daily sale.