With the arrival of Apple's newest iPhone lineup in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), users are weighing whether new features, such as improved cameras, enhanced performance, and the company's first foldable iPhone, justify upgrading their devices.
Pre-orders for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max start today at 16:00 in the UAE, giving interested customers the opportunity to purchase the devices before the official sales launch.
Some long-time Apple users have already made up their minds, while others are considering the changes to see how much the latest specifications differ from their current phones.
Indian expat Abdul Rafik, who currently uses an iPhone 17 Pro, told Khaleej Times that he plans to switch to the iPhone 18 Pro on launch day. He stated: 'I am getting the burgundy iPhone 18 Pro on the first day. The new iPhone is a clear step forward compared to the previous one. I can't wait to see what the A20 Pro and the variable aperture camera can do.'
Rafik noted that he has already prepared for the pre-order at 16:00. He emphasized: 'Yes, today at 16:00, the Apple account is authorized, the card is checked, and the trade-in estimate has been made. I learned from bitter experience that pre-orders are not guaranteed at 16:00. Everything needs to be planned in advance.'
His interest in Apple products also extends to the company's first foldable iPhone, the Duo model, although he is not yet certain about an immediate switch. He added: 'Duo is what I have been waiting for years: the first foldable from Apple. But this year's Duo lacks Face ID support, so I am a bit hesitant about buying it.'
Rafik was previously one of the first buyers of the iPhone 14 Pro in the UAE and attends Apple presentations annually. He shared: 'Being the first person in the UAE to upgrade from the iPhone 14 Pro is still one of my proudest moments. I have attended every presentation since, and I will be at the store again on September 18th. Regardless of whether I am first, launch day is something I never miss.'
As a father of two, Rafik cited the new parental control features in iOS 27 as another important factor for him. He noted: 'The new parental control improvements in iOS 27 are very important to me as a father. Apple has truly put in extra effort to use AI responsibly and safely.'
While Rafik is ready to upgrade, UAE resident Hamda Al Khaili feels it is necessary to assess whether the improvements are significant enough before making a decision. She said: 'I think the new iPhone looks very good. I like the design, and I believe Apple always tries to improve the phone every year.'
For Al Khaili, the camera is one of the key factors influencing her choice. She explained: 'I am particularly interested in the camera, battery life, and new features. I often use my phone for photography and videography, especially while traveling or spending time with friends and family.'
She reported that she will compare the new phone with her current device before deciding whether to upgrade. 'If the camera and battery are much better, I think it might be worth upgrading.'
Despite growing competition from other smartphone manufacturers, Al Khaili remains an iPhone user due to its simplicity and integration with other Apple devices. She stated: 'I prefer the iPhone because I find it simple and easy to use. I also like the design and how Apple devices work together. I have been accustomed to using an iPhone for a long time, so I will probably continue choosing iPhone in the future.'
However, for UAE resident Eisa Ahmed, the situation is more complex. Although interested in the iPhone 18 Pro, he is contemplating whether to upgrade now or wait for the release of the new Duo model. He said: 'I am still waiting. I like the 18 Pro, but I don't feel the need to rush the purchase. I want to see how people react to the new features first, and more importantly, I want to think about the Duo before making a decision.'
Ahmed suggested that the new capabilities might have a greater impact on users of older iPhones, but he is less convinced that existing Pro users require an immediate upgrade. He observed: 'For someone using an old iPhone, I think an upgrade makes sense. But if you already have a recent Pro model, I'm not sure the difference is big enough to justify an immediate upgrade.'
The Duo model complicates his decision. He explained: 'I have been interested in a foldable iPhone for a long time, so I would prefer to wait and see what Apple does with it before spending money on the 18 Pro. It is a completely different type of phone, and that makes it more exciting for me.'
Nevertheless, the absence of Face ID in the current Duo model remains an issue. When asked if the lack of Face ID affected his decision, Ahmed replied: 'Yes, definitely. Face ID is something I use every day, so its absence is a big compromise for me.'
For Ahmed, the future foldable device combining the design with the features of the Pro model could be a sufficient incentive to switch. He concluded: 'I would like to have Face ID, a very good camera system, and a strong battery. If Apple can combine the foldable design with the features we expect from the iPhone Pro, I will definitely consider it.'
