Smartphone Shipments Surge in the Middle East in 2023: Canalys Report

The latest research from Canalys highlights a significant surge in smartphone shipments across the Middle East (excluding Turkey) with a 24% increase in the final quarter of 2023 compared to the previous year.

This upward trend has led to a total of 42.5 million units being shipped throughout the year, marking an 11% rise from 2022. Despite Samsung’s continued leadership in the market, its dominance is being challenged as brands such as Transsion (Tecno, Infinix, iTel), Xiaomi (including Redmi and Poco), and Apple display close shipment volumes in Q4.

Smartphone Shipments Surge in the Middle East

The boost in shipments has been attributed to end-of-season sales events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, along with Black Friday and Yellow Friday sales from Amazon and Noon. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) alone witnessed a 22% growth, albeit being on the lower end of the regional scale.

Xiaomi’s strategic expansion into the UAE’s brick and mortar stores has seen its presence increase significantly. The brand’s availability in Sharaf DG stores has tripled, with models such as the Redmi 12C gaining popularity among consumers.

Furthermore, Iraq experienced an unprecedented 86% surge in smartphone shipments. This increase is credited to targeted marketing campaigns by Transsion and Xiaomi, focusing on a younger demographic.

Additionally, Honor’s introduction of the X series alongside flagship devices like the Magic 5 Pro, is raising the brand’s profile in both Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Although Motorola did not make it into the top 5, it witnessed a notable 49% growth in the region. The company is poised for further expansion, aiming to extend its reach to over ten new countries.

Positive Impact of the Middle Eastern Smartphone Market

Looking ahead to 2024, Canalys presents a positive forecast for the region’s smartphone market. The anticipation of a unified GCC tourist visa, expected to launch between 2024 and 2025, is predicted to invigorate the tourism sector.

According to Canalys Senior Consultant Manish Pravinkumar, this development could stimulate demand for the latest devices and technology, further bolstering the smartphone industry in the Middle East.