High-Priced iPhone Duo Set to Test UAE Market Demand for Foldable Smartphones

The UAE has long displayed an affinity for the latest cutting-edge technology, but the success of products such as Apple's iPhone Duo is not guaranteed. Orders for Apple's first foldable phone will begin on October 16, starting at Dh8,499 ($2,300) for the base model and potentially costing as much as Dh13,600 for a version with more storage. These prices sit at the higher end of smartphone costs in the UAE.

Still, many experts believe the iPhone Duo will sell well in the Arab world's second-largest economy, recognizing nuance in Apple's pricing decision within the foldable sector. Mohsin Khan, a UAE-based technology analyst, product reviewer, and content creator known on social media as Emkwan, remains optimistic about Apple's prospects in the country. Speaking from Cupertino, California, after attending the product launch at Apple headquarters, he stated that the UAE market has a strong appetite for premium technology and rapid device adoption.

Mr Khan noted that the device will initially function as a premium and aspirational product, with the broader question being whether Apple can shift foldables from a niche category into the mainstream. He added that the pricing aligns with competitor offerings and praised the refined feel of the hardware.

Liz Lee, associate director at Counterpoint, supported this perspective, describing Apple's pricing strategy as a bold move that could drive early consumer demand, particularly if supplies remain tight. Meanwhile, Dubai maritime electronics executive and Apple enthusiast Jimmy Grewal plans to purchase the device upon its release next month, drawing parallels between the iPhone Duo and Apple's historical PowerBook Duo line from the early 1990s.