Experts and company executives have indicated that smartphones are the most sought-after gifts during the holiday season in the UAE. Market reports on smartphones highlight that consumer spending seasons, including holidays, significantly boost the demand for electronic devices.
According to Canalys data for 2025, smartphone shipments in the Middle East increased by 15% year-on-year during the second quarter of 2025, reaching 13.2 million units. Additionally, reports from Counterpoint Research revealed that the smartphone market in the UAE saw an annual growth of approximately 48% in the third quarter of last year 2025, primarily driven by a surge in demand for high-end devices.
The Latest Technologies
Shafi Alam, head of corporate marketing and direct-to-consumer business at Samsung Gulf Electronics, stated, “Tech devices have emerged as a preferred gift option during the festive season.”
Locally, consumers often lean towards upgrading their personal gadgets or purchasing devices that support a connected lifestyle, while tourists favor portable gadgets and tech accessories that are convenient gifts.
This trend is further fueled by Samsung’s introduction of new products into the market. There is typically an increase in interest for lightweight and innovative devices such as smartphones, wearable technology, and tech accessories. Many consumers prefer products that are easy to carry or gift.
Shafi added, “Market indicators show that demand for consumer electronics is continuing to grow significantly compared to the same period last year. This growth is attributed to various factors, including increased interest in devices that enhance home entertainment experiences and digital connectivity, along with the desire to upgrade devices or buy gifts during Eid.”
Additionally, new innovations, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence and connected devices, are stimulating consumer interest and encouraging them to acquire the latest technologies. As a result, many brands and retailers are offering flexible financing options and installment plans in collaboration with banks and payment partners to enhance consumer purchasing power and make access to the latest gadgets easier and more convenient.
Peak Activity
Debo Chang, general manager of Honor for the GCC, stated, “The holiday season is traditionally a peak time for smartphone sales, with the market often witnessing a nearly 20% spikes in the last quarter of the year.”
This is due to a combination of factors, including consumer upgrades, intense promotional offers from the retail sector, and the gift-giving culture during this time. Major marketing events like Black Friday, the Dubai Shopping Festival, and year-end holidays further amplify this momentum, creating an ideal environment for growth in the tech sector.
According to Chang, this trend indicates not only an increase in sales volume but also a significant shift in consumer priorities during this period. There is growing interest in premium smartphones, the latest technologies, and value-added offers. Events like the Dubai Shopping Festival play a crucial role in solidifying this trend.
During this holiday season, market reports have noted consistent growth within the mid-range pricing segments due to consumers seeking devices that balance price, performance, camera quality, and connectivity. These segments continue to perform well during the holiday season, fulfilling the needs of diverse user groups while maintaining competitive value in the market.
Smartphones and Small Devices
A representative from Jumbo Electronics confirmed a significant shift in purchasing patterns towards gifts during Eid.
Categories such as smartphones, small home appliances, wearables, and electronic gaming products are experiencing an increase in demand, as shoppers are eager to buy gifts for family and friends.
In the smartphone segment specifically, a typical sales increase of around 10% is noted during the holiday period, with expectations for similar trends this year.
Demand is generally distributed between mid-range and high-end smartphones, particularly when new models are launched around the holiday season. This year, with new smartphone releases, there is strong consumer interest.
While promotional offers are available throughout the year, festive seasons often witness a rise in demand, especially among customers looking to upgrade their devices or purchase a high-end smartphone as a gift.
When discussing the features that constitute a priority for customers when purchasing a smartphone, such as camera capabilities, artificial intelligence, battery life, charging speed, or price, it was noted: “Camera capabilities and price remain the top priorities for most consumers when choosing a smartphone; customers are on the lookout for devices that offer advanced photography features while still providing good value.”