The Middle East & Africa Tax-Free Association (Meadfa) has appointed Rob Marriot, CEO of Aer Rianta International Middle East (ARIME), as new president, and has been appointed to replace Sherif Toulan, CEO of International Tax-Free Trade & Trade & Agencies Ltd.
He was elected at the association's 24th Annual General Meeting held in Dubai on March 25, 2025, and was also elected officers and board of directors for the period 2025-2027. Meadfa says the newly elected leadership will guide the association through the next phase of industry transformation, with a focus on advocacy, sustainability and innovation.
“We're committed to providing a great opportunity to help you,” said Rob Marriot, president of Meadfa. “It is a privilege to lead Meadfa during this pivotal time for this industry, focusing on strengthening collaboration between stakeholders, promoting meaningful innovation, and ensuring that the voices of travel retail in the Middle East and Africa are represented.
Sherif Touran said: “It was an incredible honor to serve as President of Meadfa in two consecutive terms. Over the past four years we have faced challenges, embraced new opportunities and strengthened our industry positions in the Middle East and Africa.
The elected officers are:
•President: Rob Marriot, CEO, Aer Rianta International Middle East (Arime),
•Vice President: Abdeslam Aguzor, CEO of the Middle East, Avolta, Africa, Abdelta
• Executive Director: Chairman, CEO, CEO, Karl Raphael, Aphrodite Sarl
•Treasurer: Bernard Creed, Senior Vice President – Finance (Retail & Leisure), Dubai Tax-Free
“We are pleased to announce that we are committed to providing a range of services and services to our customers,” said Abdeslam Agzoul, vice president of Meadfa. “Meadfa has long been a cornerstone of driving industry interests and we are honored to take on this new role. We look forward to Meadfa's initiative, working closely with the new board and executives, and contributing to the continued success and growth of the associations across the region.”
The elected officers include:
• Chichimapona, co-founder and executive chairperson of African travel retailer
Isaias Diaz, general manager of Dufry Maroc
•Bernard Schlafstein, Sales Director Middle East & Africa, GEBR. Heinemann
•Sherif Toulan, CEO, International Duty Free Trading & Agencies Ltd
Haitham Al Majali, CEO of Jordan Duty Free Shop
Munif Mohamed, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail Middle East
Philip Marguerite, President TFWA
Meadfa affiliate members have selected representatives from the category group to work for the Meadfa Board.
•Mazen Kaddoura, representative of the sweets category – Global Sales Director – Travel Retail & Dute Free, Notions Global LLC
•Milika Kalyati, representative of the Tobacco category – Corporate Affays & Communications Manager, JT International
• Roger Jackson, representative of the liquor category – Managing Director, Organico Solutions FZCO
AGM provided a platform to review key outcomes, discuss industry challenges, and outline strategic priorities for the future.
Meadfa continues to expand its membership, with 72 members currently being part of the association. This growth underscores the ongoing efforts of Roger Jackson-led membership commentaries, broadening the scope of the association.
The Advocacy Committee, chaired by Rob Marriot, highlighted key achievements from 2024, including active involvement in the DFWC-led campaign to protect the tax-free sector, continued cooperation with local organizations, and strengthening advocacy efforts through strategic initiatives. Looking ahead, Comoit will prioritize strengthening regulatory involvement, promoting industry-friendly policies, and promoting deeper partnerships with global and regional stakeholders.
The Meadfa Sustainability Committee, led by Munif Mohammed, remains committed to supporting its members in adopting sustainable practices. Recognizing that addressing sustainability challenges requires a change in mindset, from seeking competitive advantage to embracing joint advantage, Commitee is driving initiatives tailoring to the broader ESG goals. These initiatives aim to promote industry-wide progress and meaningful partnerships for a more sustainable future.
During the meeting, Meadfa treasurer Bernard Creed released his 2024 financial report and forecast.
As Meadfa enters a new chapter in leadership, the association reaffirms its commitment to protecting and promoting tax-free and travel retail interests. The association continues to defend its members, ensure that their voices are heard, strengthen local partnerships and drive industry progress in the ever-evolving global landscape.
