This applies to the current iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models too, with retailers targeting the Back To School buys with easy installment plans and accessory discounts. (Listed prices show iPhone 15 versions going for Dh2,499-Dh2,999 on average.)
This demand for previous year models should continue into the coming weeks, with analysts saying that it’s unlikely new model launches will break that demand. There is a growing number of consumers who have been cutting into any of their discretionary spending. “This is why a lot of the Back To School offers are also giving visibility to previous-year smartphones, laptops and tablets,” said a retailer.
Making up for tough Q1-2025
Retailers will take any sales improvement after an extremely difficult January to March demand patterns for tech gadgets. Some of the new model year handset purchases were delayed, and it was only by April-May that sales improved.
The latest data from the consultancy Canalys show the Middle East shipments (excluding those to Turkey) grew 15% to 13.2 million units in Q2-2025.
This made it ‘strongest-growing region worldwide’.
Samsung, Honor lead on shipments
Samsung and Honor had ‘exceptionally strong performances’ in Q2, according to Canalys’ data. Both hit high double-digit growth rates.
“Samsung benefits across the region, particularly from more targeted use of its entry-level Galaxy A series 4G models,” said Manish Pravinkumar of Canalys.
“The enduring demand for the Galaxy S25 series and S24 FE is being fueled by buy-now-pay-later options and faster refresh cycles driven by an increased desire for consumers to update.
“Honor nearly doubled its shipments compared with Q2 2024, with the GCC emerging as a core growth market
Manoj Nair, the Gulf News Business Editor, is an expert on property and gold in the UAE and wider region, and these days he is also keeping an eye on stocks as well.
Manoj cares a lot for luxury brands and what make them tick, as well as keep close watch on whatever changes the retail industry goes through, whether on the grand scale or incremental.
He’s been with Gulf News for 30 years, having started as a Business Reporter. When not into financial journalism, Manoj prefers to see as much of 1950s-1980s Bollywood movies. He reckons the combo is as exciting as it gets, though many will vehemently disagree.