The Qatari free market, owner and shopping ports at Hamad International Airport, has strengthened its global leadership in the retail sector at airports, by winning the award for the best free airport market for the third year in a row during the 2025 Frontier Awards in the city of Cannes. The Qatari free market also won the best specialized concept prizes – hospitality, food and beverage (airport market) and the best marketing activation for the year (“Live Formula 1 Life” campaign), to establish its position at the forefront of this world sector.
The “airport market” was appreciated in the category of the best concept specialized in the mixture of hospitality, food and beverages to highlight the Qatari heritage inside the halls. The store offers gifts, foods and craftsmanship locally inspired in a warm and attractive environment, giving travelers a real sense of local identity, accompanied by high -end and distinctive hospitality. This victory reflects the ability of the Qatari free market to create unique shopping destinations that combine originality and attractive service at the airport.
As for the best marketing activation category for the year, the “Live Life of Formula 1” campaign that converted Hamad International Airport to a vibrant environment inspired by Formula 1 races won, which included equipment that simulates the race track, interactive exhibitions, distinctive photography opportunities, and exclusive goods. This estimate reflects the ability of the Qatari free market to provide pioneering activities that combine theatrical performance, entertainment, and retail to provide an interesting experience for travelers at the global level.
Engineer Badr Mohamed El -Mir, CEO of the Qatar Airways Group said: “This honor in the 2025 Frontier Awards reflects the commitment of the continuous Qatari free market to innovation and excellence in various areas of its operations. As an essential part of the Qatar Airways Group, the Qatari free market continues to upgrade Hamad International Airport to become a global retail destination and restaurants for our visitors from all over the world. This achievement is the fruit of the passion, creativity and determination of our wonderful team, which made it sincerely and appreciated.
Mr. Thabet Musleh, head of the shopping and hospitality sector at the Qatar Airways Group, said, commenting on this victory, saying: “The victory with Frontier Awards represents a source of pride for all of us in the Qatari free market, as it reflects the creativity we offer, a continuous effort, and a collective work to make distinguished experiences of millions of travelers through Hamad International Airport annually. Also, our sponsorship of the closing ceremony was equally rewarding, as it gave us an opportunity to celebrate with our colleagues from around the world, and to participate in an evening honors the best achievements in our sector. We are enthusiastic about building this momentum, and continuing to upgrade retail standards at airports. ”
