You can use the points for discounts on el al duty free items. The person with the points does not need to be the one travelling, it can be anyone, you just have to input the order at least 48-72 hours before the flight you want the duty free delivered to. The person on the flight will need to pay the cash portion of the purchase on the plane ( by credit card).

There are some good deals using the points, especially if they are going to expire anyway. The Johnny Walker Double Black was a great one.