iPhone 18 launch in UAE draws crowds amid regional price gaps

The launch of the iPhone 18 series in the United Arab Emirates has drawn significant crowds, with residents and tourists queuing outside Apple stores in Dubai to secure devices on the first day. For many loyal customers, the act of waiting in line has become a ritual to signal brand devotion and exclusivity.

There is also a notable price discrepancy between the UAE and India markets. The 256GB iPhone 18 Pro is listed at Dh5,099 in the UAE, which converts to approximately ₹133,221, compared to ₹164,900 in India. The Pro Max model shows a similar gap, with UAE prices equating to roughly ₹143,671 against India’s ₹179,900.

While the price difference offers potential savings of between ₹31,000 and ₹36,000, travelers must weigh these savings against the costs of flights, visas, and customs duties. If travel expenses exceed the price gap, purchasing the device in India may be more cost-effective.