iPhone 16 Pro Max Launch Sparks Surge in International Buyers to UAE

The release of the iPhone 16 Pro Max has triggered a wave of international buyers flocking to the UAE, with many willing to pay a hefty premium of Dh1,500 to Dh2,500 above the retail price to secure the device. With limited stock and high demand, the UAE has become a hotspot for resellers, eager to capitalize on early access to the coveted smartphone before it is widely available in their home countries.

Among those lining up at the Apple Store in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, on the first day of the release was Ahmet K., who traveled from Uzbekistan to purchase multiple iPhones. “In Tashkent, we cannot buy new iPhone 16 Pro models right now,” Ahmet said. “Even when it becomes available, prices range from Dh7,500 to Dh9,500, which is 30 to 40 percent more than here.”

Ahmet secured 16 iPhones, paying an extra Dh2,000 for each iPhone 16 Pro Max with 512GB storage. He plans to fly back to Tashkent before demand subsides, expecting a lucrative return on his investment. “For us, this is a time to make money selling iPhones at a premium,” he said.

Similarly, Dilnoz U., another traveler from Uzbekistan, flew to Dubai to take advantage of the high demand. She noted the markup on launch day, with sellers charging Dh2,000 or more for the iPhone 16 Pro. Despite the added cost, she was undeterred. “The price hike guarantees good returns back home,” she said, after paying a Dh1,500 premium for her device, anticipating a profit of around Dh1,000 per phone.

The trend highlights the growing practice of international buyers leveraging the UAE’s early access to the latest gadgets. With supply limitations in their home countries, these buyers are eager to secure as many devices as possible for resale at a profit.

Kumar, a buyer from Mumbai, India, also joined the rush. Arriving in Dubai on September 10, he reserved multiple iPhones and has already secured five iPhone 16 Pro Max models. “It’s nearly impossible to get the iPhone 16 Pro Max in India right now,” Kumar said, estimating a profit of Dh1,000 per device after paying a Dh2,000 premium for three of his phones.

Local mobile retailers are also witnessing the surge in demand. Sharez, a Pakistani expat and mobile shop owner in Deira, confirmed receiving 60 pre-bookings last week alone. “Our clients are willing to pay Dh2,000 to Dh2,500 extra just to ensure they don’t miss out on the first-day stock,” he said.

As demand continues to soar, both international buyers and local retailers are racing to secure as many units as possible, making the UAE a central hub for iPhone 16 Pro Max resales.