The iPhone 16 has officially arrived in the UAE, and today marks the day when Apple enthusiasts will finally be able to get their hands on the latest device—or perhaps even more than one. iPhone release days in the Emirates are anything but ordinary. Over the years, we've witnessed crowds camping overnight outside Apple stores and long lines stretching through mall corridors throughout the day. It's not uncommon to hear about individuals purchasing 11 (or more) iPhones at once. Some even travel from halfway around the world to Dubai just to secure the coveted device before anyone else.
This year, however, Apple has implemented smarter measures to manage the excitement, including requiring online reservations, setting specific pickup times, and limiting purchases to two per Apple ID user. Despite these efforts, barricades have been erected and security plans have been meticulously mapped out because, despite everything, crowds are still anticipated.
Khaleej Times' teams are on the ground to capture the excitement, the joyful tears, and even some frustration—and everything in between. Here's the latest:
7am: No entry! Those who may have planned to queue up at Apple stores—particularly at the tech giant's flagship branch at Dubai Mall—well before opening hours would have been disappointed. Security is tight at the mall, and no one is being allowed entry. Here's the scene at Dubai Mall:
