
Top Smartphone Brands in UAE 2024: Samsung Leads, Xiaomi and Vivo Gain Ground
As we dive into 2024, the smartphone market in the UAE is experiencing dynamic shifts. In the first quarter, several key players have emerged, showing remarkable sales and market presence. Here’s a detailed look at the top smartphone brands in the UAE for 2024, with insights into their strategies and performance.
1. Samsung Dominates the Market

Samsung continues to be the leading smartphone brand in the UAE. In Q1 2024, Samsung sold an impressive 6.7 million units, securing a 19% market share. The success of Samsung can be attributed to the popularity of the Galaxy S24 series, despite some criticism over the Exynos processor. Additionally, older models from the M, A, and F series have maintained strong sales, contributing to Samsung’s market dominance.
2. Xiaomi's Impressive Resurgence

Xiaomi has made a significant comeback, securing the second position with an 18% market share. The brand’s success is largely driven by its Redmi Note 13 and Note 13 Pro models, as well as the Poco C and M series. Despite earlier challenges, Xiaomi’s diverse product range and competitive pricing have resonated well with consumers in the UAE.
3. Vivo's Offline Success
Vivo has carved out a strong presence in the UAE market with an 18% market share. The brand has focused heavily on offline sales, with its Y and V series phones being particularly popular. Vivo’s strategic move to eliminate budget phones and concentrate on mid-range models priced between AED 1,500 and AED 2,000 has paid off, making them a key player in the market.
4. Oppo's Premium Focus
Oppo, distinguishing itself from OnePlus, has targeted the premium segment with its A and Reno series. By focusing on fewer units with higher price points, Oppo has established a niche market. This strategy has allowed Oppo to maintain a competitive edge while delivering high-quality devices to UAE consumers.
5. Realme's Broad Spectrum Strategy
Realme holds a market share of 9-10%, thanks to its strategy of releasing phones at various price points. By offering a wide range of products, Realme caters to budget-conscious consumers, ensuring steady sales. Despite the absence of a new GT series, Realme’s diverse offerings keep it relevant and competitive in the UAE market.
Other Notable Brands
- OnePlus: With a 4.8% market share, OnePlus has gained traction through its Nord CE series and OnePlus 12 series, which have become best-sellers.
- Apple: Surprisingly, Apple has secured a 4.1% market share, driven by strong sales of the iPhone 15 series. The brand’s focus on premium products continues to appeal to a significant segment of UAE consumers.
- Motorola and Infinix: Both brands focus on budget segments, with Motorola capturing 3.5% and Infinix showing potential in the AED 1,000-2,000 range.
- Emerging Brands: Brands like Nothing and Google Pixel are slowly gaining ground, while traditional players like Nokia and Lava maintain a niche presence with budget-friendly options.
The first quarter of 2024 has set the stage for an exciting year in the UAE’s smartphone market. Samsung leads the pack, but brands like Xiaomi and Vivo are quickly catching up with innovative strategies and strong product lines. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these brands evolve and what new trends emerge in the competitive landscape of the UAE smartphone market.
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