Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is attracting strong interest across the UAE. Some buyers are willing to pay an additional Dh2,500 to secure the device on launch day.
The iPhone Duo starts at Dh8,499 and comes in two colours, Star White and Night Sky. Pre-orders opened on October 16, while official retail sales begin on October 23.
Moreover, mobile phone retailers in Dubai are reporting growing demand among Apple enthusiasts eager to experience the company’s foldable technology.
Strong Demand Drives Premium Prices in UAE
Dubai’s mobile phone markets are witnessing considerable excitement ahead of the iPhone Duo’s retail launch. Consequently, some customers are prepared to pay significantly above the official price for immediate availability.
Retailers in Deira report particularly strong interest from buyers seeking early access to Apple’s latest smartphone design.
Furthermore, demand reflects a familiar trend in which major iPhone redesigns attract substantial attention during their initial release.
Many prospective buyers currently own the iPhone 17 Pro Max. However, some deliberately skipped the iPhone 18 Pro Max while waiting for Apple’s first foldable smartphone.
Meanwhile, the 256GB and 512GB variants are attracting considerable interest. Both Star White and Night Sky colour options are also seeing strong demand.
Additionally, early ownership has become a status symbol for some Apple enthusiasts. Retailers expect premium resale prices to remain elevated for approximately two to three weeks after launch.
Some Apple Users Prefer Future Upgrades
Despite the strong demand, not every Apple enthusiast plans to purchase the iPhone Duo immediately.
Some customers who recently upgraded to the iPhone 18 Pro Max are choosing to retain their existing devices. Moreover, the absence of Face ID has influenced certain purchasing decisions.
Nevertheless, interest in Apple’s foldable technology remains high, even among consumers who do not intend to upgrade immediately.
Some experienced Apple customers are also helping friends secure devices through the pre-order process. Consequently, demand extends beyond buyers purchasing smartphones for personal use.
Meanwhile, potential buyers are already anticipating improvements in future generations. Features such as Face ID and integrated Apple Pencil functionality remain among their expectations.
However, Apple has not confirmed whether these features will appear in upcoming foldable models.
iPhone Duo Launch Signals Growing Foldable Smartphone Interest
The iPhone Duo marks Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, introducing a new design category to its smartphone lineup.
Furthermore, strong early demand in the UAE highlights consumer interest in innovative mobile technology and premium devices.
While some buyers prioritise immediate ownership, others prefer to wait for improved features and future generations.
Meanwhile, retailers anticipate continued demand during the initial weeks following the official launch.
With retail availability beginning October 23, the iPhone Duo’s performance will provide an early indication of Apple’s potential in the foldable smartphone segment.
Ultimately, the willingness of UAE consumers to pay substantial premiums demonstrates the excitement surrounding Apple’s latest smartphone innovation.








