An Irishman by descent, Colm lived in Dubai for over 40 years and led Dubai Duty Free from 1983 until his retirement in May of this year.
"Colm was a great leader who created an award-winning retail environment at Dubai International Airport and managed its growth to the level of 2 billion dollars with over 6,000 employees at the time of his retirement," said Ramesh Cidambi, the current director of Dubai Duty Free. He also continued to assist the Irish diaspora throughout his entire life in Dubai and received the Irish Presidential Distinguished Service Award in 2014 for his contributions to Ireland.
Colm also helped establish the Dubai Duty Free Foundation in 2004 and proudly referred to the foundational work supporting 119 local and international charitable organizations.
"I remember Colm's warm personality, which will be remembered by many thanks to his friendly nature, warmth, generosity, unparalleled kindness, and friendship. Our thoughts and prayers are with Brida and family at this very difficult time," added Ramesh Cidambi.
Colm, a well-known and beloved figure in Dubai, was part of the initial team from Aer Rianta, which arrived in Dubai in July 1983 to create the duty-free operation.
Dubai Duty Free announced the passing of Colm McLafferty, former executive vice president and general director, who passed away yesterday in the United Kingdom after a brief illness. Under his leadership, Dubai Duty Free became one of the largest operators at a single airport in the world.
"Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and all our employees express deep condolences to Colm's wife Brida, sons Niall, and daughters Tina and Mendi, as well as all their families," said the company in a statement.
"His original contract with the Dubai government was for six months, but he continued to manage the business for more than four decades. He was a true gentleman, who touched the hearts of many people in the industry of travel retail," emphasized g-n Cidambi.
