Dubai: Buyers in the UAE hoping to get their hands on Apple’s first foldable iPhone may have to wait until next year, with estimated delivery dates for new orders extending to about three months after the official launch.Apple’s UAE online store displayed an estimated delivery date of January 22, 2027, for an iPhone Duo order. The actual delivery date may vary depending on the model, storage capacity and availability, meaning not all buyers will face the same delay.Apple began accepting pre-orders for the phone on Friday, October 16, with official availability in stores scheduled for October 23. However, estimated delivery dates slipped into next year shortly after pre-orders opened.According to tech news site 9to5Mac, shipping estimates in the US shifted to January 2027 within minutes of pre-orders opening. By 8.30am EST, all colour options and storage capacities reviewed by the site showed estimated delivery dates of January 25, 2027, or later.In a statement to the Financial Times, Apple described demand for the phone as “exceptional by any measure”, saying it was doing its utmost to provide the device to customers as quickly as possible.The phone features a 5.4-inch external display and a 7.6-inch foldable internal display when unfolded, and is powered by the A20 Pro chip. Its design allows it to be used as a traditional phone when closed, while the larger screen can be used for watching videos, reading and multitasking.Is it available before January?The later delivery estimates do not mean all buyers will have to wait until next year. They mainly apply to new orders, while customers who reserved their devices early may receive them closer to the launch date.According to delivery dates displayed on Apple’s online store, pre-ordered devices are scheduled to begin arriving in the UAE on October 23. Buyers placing orders now, however, may have to wait until January 22, 2027, depending on the model selected and stock availability.Buyers can check their estimated delivery date before completing payment through Apple’s online store. Customers with confirmed orders can also track shipping status and expected arrival times through their accounts or purchase confirmation emails.Delivery estimates may change as inventory is updated and orders are processed.
