The Moodie Davitt Report names its People of the Year for 2024

Lal Arakulath

The Founder & CEO of Dubai-based Kreol Group is one of travel retail’s most irrepressible spirits.

Created from humble beginnings 30 years ago, Arakulath’s company has grown into a regional distribution, brand and retail powerhouse across local, ecommerce and travel retail channels. Kreol Group also operates Cochin Duty Free in his native Kerala, India in a joint venture with Avolta.

His is a rare story of entrepreneurial excellence, persistence and passion. The story of a self-made man who came to Dubai from India in the late 1970s and worked his way up from the most menial of jobs to create an outstanding and enduring business.

Importantly, that remorseless rise has been characterised and underpinned by Lal Arakulath’s personal integrity and commitment to his workforce, his partners and to society. Truly a deserving addition to this year’s lis