UAE Mobile Market Hits AED 11.2 Billion in 2025, Capturing 27% of GCC Shipments Amid Premium Pivot
The UAE mobile phone market demonstrated resilient growth in 2025, with total shipments rising 2.5% to reach 6.99 million units, valued at AED 11.21 billion ($3.53 billion). According to latest data from IDC, the UAE continues to consolidate its position as a regional tech hub, accounting for 27% of the total 25.96 million devices shipped across the GCC. The report highlights a decisive shift toward high-value devices, with smartphones representing 92.2% of the market and an average selling price (ASP) of AED 1,739 ($474) per unit.
While global smartphone growth remained modest at 1.5%, Apple emerged as a key driver, seeing a 6.1% annual increase in shipments. However, IDC warns of a potential 1% global dip in 2026 due to memory component shortages. Despite volume challenges, the UAE’s appetite for advanced connectivity remains strong, as 5G-enabled devices now command nearly 60% of the regional market share, reflecting the nation's rapid adoption of next-generation infrastructure.