December 10 2024  |  Retailers

Qatar Duty Free collaborates with Phoenicia LTD and Habanos S.A. to celebrate Cuban excellence

By Hibah Noor


The Casa del Habano Pop-Up Shop at Hamad International Airport


The collaboration between Qatar Duty Free, Phoenicia LTD, and Habanos S.A. positions Doha and Hamad International Airport as a premier destination for cigar enthusiasts, particularly from the GCC region

Qatar Duty Free joined forces with Phoenicia LTD, one of the world’s most distinguished distributors of premium Cuban cigars, and Habanos S.A., an iconic global leader in Cuban cigar production, to host an extraordinary celebration honoring the 55th anniversary of renowned Cuban cigar brand Trinidad.

Held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, the event featured two significant announcements: a new partnership between Qatar Duty Free and Phoenicia LTD to manage all cigar outlets at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and the launch of the Casa del Habano Pop-Up Shop, the first of its kind in the world.

The milestone anniversary celebrations commenced earlier this year in February with the world-renowned Festival del Habano in Havana. It continued with a spectacular evening in June at the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The Doha gala dinner, which took place on Saturday, encapsulated the essence of these events, blending cultural vibrancy, artisanal craftsmanship, and timeless Cuban elegance in an immersive experience unlike any other.


Qatar Duty Free teamed up with Phoenicia LTD and Habanos S.A. to host a celebration honoring the 55th anniversary of renowned Cuban cigar brand Trinidad


Held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, the event also featured two significant announcements: a new partnership between Qatar Duty Free and Phoenicia LTD to manage all cigar outlets at Hamad International Airport and the launch of the Casa del Habano Pop-Up Shop (pictured above)

From exclusive cigar launches to spectacular performances, the event in Doha featured a carefully curated experience designed to honor the unique spirit of Trinidad cigars. The meticulously planned program guided attendees through Trinidad’s storied journey, with captivating presentations, cigar unveilings, and live performances. The evening included iconic performances by Studio RAYY, Majiid, and The Managers, taking center stage during an unforgettable evening.

Phoenicia LTD’s President, Mr. Mohammad Zeidan, addressed guests by sharing a heartfelt significance of this milestone in Trinidad’s illustrious history and giving a shout-out to Qatar Duty Free.

In a grand reveal, the highly anticipated Trinidad Robusto Extra was introduced. This new addition to the Trinidad family was paired with Havana-inspired cocktails prepared by world-renowned mixologists from Teddy’s Speakeasy.

The finale of the evening featured the regional launch of the Trinidad Cabildo, accompanied by a performance created exclusively for the reveal, with captivating symphonies by the world-renowned Michel Fadel, joined for the first time ever with enchanting movements presented by America’s Got Talent 2022 winners, The Mayyas.

The collaboration between Qatar Duty Free, Phoenicia LTD, and Habanos S.A. positions Doha and Hamad International Airport as a premier destination for cigar enthusiasts, particularly from the GCC region. Travelers passing through DOH can explore an exceptional selection of premium and vintage cigars, including the commemorative Trinidad 50 Aniversario, priced at USD 365,000. This exclusive offering will be showcased at the Casa del Habano Shop, a 39.78 square-meter pop-up that recently launched at the North Node area of the airport, providing a distinctive and memorable experience

“This partnership is all about blending the rich heritage of Cuban cigars with the world-class hospitality that Qatar Duty Free is known for. Together with Phoenicia Ltd. and Habanos S.A., we’re creating an experience that celebrates tradition while elevating what travellers can expect at Hamad International Airport,” said Mr. Thabet Musleh, Chief Retail and Hospitality Officer at Qatar Airways Group.

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