As pre-orders for the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max officially kicked off in the UAE, some eager tech fans are showing just how far they will go to secure the latest device. Local retailers in Deira report that customers are willing to shell out as much as Dh1,500 above the retail price to bypass the wait and get their hands on the phone on launch day. While the 512GB Pro Max model remains a top seller, the newly introduced "burgundy" color has quickly become the most sought-after option for early adopters. Retailers expect these premium price tags to fluctuate as supply catches up with demand throughout the following week.

However, not everyone in the market shares the same enthusiasm. Some mobile shop owners have observed a noticeably cooler response compared to previous years, citing economic caution due to regional instability as a primary factor. Furthermore, many potential buyers appear to be holding off on their purchases to wait for the highly anticipated iPhone "Duo," Apple's first venture into foldable technology. With that device slated for release in October, many enthusiasts are prioritizing their budgets for the foldable model, leading to a more measured and cautious start to the current iPhone launch season.