What To Know
- From a foldable iPhone to a revised launch strategy, major changes are on the horizon — and UAE users are set to receive the new devices alongside global markets.
- Apple is gearing up for one of the most ambitious iPhone updates in its history with the upcoming iPhone 18, expected to arrive in 2026.
- Details remain fluid, but the iPhone 18 is shaping up to be a refinement-heavy update rather than a full visual redesign.
Apple is gearing up for one of the most ambitious iPhone updates in its history with the upcoming iPhone 18, expected to arrive in 2026. From a foldable iPhone to a revised launch strategy, major changes are on the horizon — and UAE users are set to receive the new devices alongside global markets.
Here’s everything we know so far about the iPhone 18 UAE launch, pricing expectations, and upcoming features.
When Will the iPhone 18 Launch in the UAE?
Apple traditionally unveils new iPhones in September, and early reports suggest the iPhone 18 will follow the same timeline. As the UAE typically launches iPhones simultaneously with global markets, the iPhone 18 UAE release is also expected in September 2026.
However, this year may look different. Apple is reportedly planning a staggered release, starting with its premium devices first.
Which iPhone 18 Models Will Launch First?
According to multiple industry reports, Apple is expected to introduce only its high-end models during the initial launch phase:
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iPhone 18 Pro
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iPhone 18 Pro Max
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Apple’s first-ever foldable iPhone
Around six months later, Apple is expected to roll out:
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Standard iPhone 18
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A more affordable iPhone 18e
A redesigned iPhone Air is also rumored, though that model may arrive in 2027.
iPhone 18 UAE Price Expectations
Apple has not confirmed official pricing yet. For reference, when the iPhone 17 launched in the UAE in September 2025, prices started at:
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iPhone 17: From AED 3,399
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iPhone 17 Air: From AED 4,299
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iPhone 17 Pro: From AED 4,699
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iPhone 17 Pro Max: From AED 5,099
Given the introduction of a foldable iPhone and new premium hardware, higher starting prices are widely expected, especially for the Pro and Fold models.
What’s New in the iPhone 18?
Apple has yet to officially confirm features, but leaks and reports point to several notable upgrades:
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Design expected to remain similar to iPhone 17
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iPhone 18 Pro Max may become Apple’s heaviest iPhone ever
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New colour options reportedly include coffee and burgundy
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Possible introduction of under-screen Face ID
Details remain fluid, but the iPhone 18 is shaping up to be a refinement-heavy update rather than a full visual redesign.
The Foldable iPhone: What to Expect
Images: theapplehub/X
The most talked-about addition is Apple’s first foldable iPhone, often referred to as the iPhone Fold.
Rumoured features include:
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Book-style folding design
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Smaller outer display with a wider internal screen
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Rear and front cameras
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Possible 24MP under-display front camera
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Touch ID instead of Face ID
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No visible crease
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Apple’s longest-ever battery life
If accurate, this would mark Apple’s most dramatic hardware shift since the original iPhone.
Final Thoughts
While Apple is keeping official details tightly under wraps, early signals suggest the iPhone 18 will redefine Apple’s smartphone strategy. For UAE customers, the launch is expected to be timely, premium-focused, and feature-rich — especially with the arrival of a foldable iPhone.
More confirmed details are expected closer to launch.
Stay tuned.
