5G Mobile Phones in UAE – Best Options & Coverage Guide
5G is no longer the future in the UAE — it’s the present. With major telecom operators like Etisalat and DU rolling out extensive 5G coverage across the country, the mobile experience is changing rapidly. Whether you’re streaming 4K videos, gaming online, or attending virtual meetings, 5G delivers lightning-fast speed and reliability. In cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and even in many smaller towns, 5G has become increasingly accessible. If you’re on the lookout for the best 5G phones UAE has to offer, you’re in the right place.
What is 5G and Why It Matters in the UAE
Compared to 4G, 5G offers significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and a more seamless experience when using data-heavy applications. Think buffer-free streaming, instant app downloads, and lag-free cloud gaming.
Why 5G is a Game-Changer:
- Speed: Downloads in seconds, not minutes.
- Latency: Real-time responsiveness, crucial for gaming and video calls.
- Network Capacity: Handle more devices without slowing down.
- Performance: Perfect for smart homes, IoT devices, and AR/VR.
Etisalat and DU have been competing fiercely to expand their 5G networks. This means better coverage, more bundled offers, and broader device compatibility for UAE residents.
Top 5G Mobile Phones Available in UAE (2025 Picks)
Whether you’re shopping on a budget or looking for flagship excellence, here are some of the best 5G smartphones you can buy in the UAE right now:
1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Price: Around AED 4,899
- Why It Stands Out: Stunning QHD+ display, top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, and a powerful 200MP camera.
- Where to Buy: Noon, Sharaf DG, Amazon.ae, Samsung UAE
2. iPhone 15 / 16 Series
- Price: AED 3,799 to AED 5,699 depending on model
- Why It Stands Out: Seamless performance, long-term iOS updates, and industry-leading video capabilities.
- Where to Buy: Apple UAE, Carrefour, Amazon.ae
3. OnePlus 12
- Price: Around AED 3,099
- Why It Stands Out: Premium specs, 100W fast charging, excellent OxygenOS experience.
- Where to Buy: Noon, Amazon.ae, Sharaf DG
4. Xiaomi 14
- Price: AED 2,499
- Why It Stands Out: Leica-powered cameras, flagship Snapdragon chip, and MIUI 15
- Where to Buy: Carrefour, Amazon.ae, Mi Store UAE
5. Realme 13 Pro+
- Price: Around AED 1,499
- Why It Stands Out: Great value for money, solid performance, and curved AMOLED display.
- Where to Buy: Noon, Amazon.ae
6. Honor Magic6
- Price: AED 2,999
- Why It Stands Out: Eye-catching design, strong AI features, and robust camera setup.
- Where to Buy: Sharaf DG, Carrefour, Honor UAE
Fastest 5G Smartphones in UAE
If raw speed is your priority, here are the fastest 5G smartphones UAE users can buy based on benchmarks and user feedback:
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Blazing fast speeds, excellent thermal control.
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: One of the top performers in gaming and real-world 5G download tests.
- OnePlus 12: High AnTuTu scores, excellent cooling system.
- Xiaomi 14: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 delivers elite-level speed.
Expect 5G download speeds upwards of 1Gbps in areas with strong signal strength from Etisalat or DU.
Etisalat 5G Phones – What’s Supported
Etisalat supports a wide range of 5G smartphones from major brands like Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, Oppo, and more. Here are some devices officially compatible with Etisalat 5G phones:
- Samsung Galaxy S23/S24 series
- iPhone 12 and newer
- OnePlus 9 and newer
- Xiaomi 12, 13, 14 series
- Realme GT series
Etisalat also offers bundled promotions on select 5G phones with postpaid plans. Visit Etisalat’s official 5G phones page to see current offers.
DU 5G Mobile List – Compatible Devices
DU also supports a large selection of 5G smartphones, with regular updates to its DU 5G mobile list. Key supported models include:
- iPhone 12 series and newer
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G, S22/S23/S24
- OnePlus Nord and flagship series
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12/13 Pro 5G
To activate 5G on DU, make sure:
- You’re using a compatible device.
- You’re in a 5G coverage area.
- Your SIM and plan support 5G.
Check DU’s official device list or visit their branches for more assistance.
5G Coverage Map – Where You Can Get 5G in UAE
Both Etisalat and DU provide strong 5G coverage across major urban centers and many suburban areas. Here’s a quick look:
Etisalat 5G Coverage:
- Dubai: Marina, Downtown, Dubai Mall, Business Bay, Expo City
- Abu Dhabi: Corniche, Al Maryah Island, Yas Island
- Sharjah: Al Majaz, City Centre, University City
- Also available in Ajman, Al Ain, Fujairah
DU 5G Coverage:
- Dubai: Mall of Emirates, Dubai Internet City, Burj Khalifa area
- Abu Dhabi: Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Yas Mall
- Sharjah: Mega Mall, Al Qasimia
5G is commonly available in malls, metro stations, airports, business districts, and high-traffic residential areas.
5G Phone Price in Dubai – Budget & Flagship Options
Looking for the right phone that fits your wallet? Here’s a breakdown of 5G phone price in Dubai by category:
Under AED 1000:
AED 1000–2000:
- Realme 13 Pro+
- Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
- Poco X6 Pro
AED 2000–4000:
- Xiaomi 14
- Honor Magic6
- OnePlus 12
AED 4000 and Above:
Prices vary slightly depending on sales, storage variants, and bundled offers.
FAQs
Is 5G available everywhere in UAE?
Not yet. While most major cities have strong 5G coverage, some rural and remote areas may still rely on 4G/LTE.
Which is the cheapest 5G phone in Dubai?
As of 2025, models like the Realme Narzo 60x and Redmi Note 13 5G are among the most affordable, priced under AED 900.
Are all new phones 5G supported?
Not all, but the majority of phones released since 2022 come with 5G support. Always check the specifications before purchasing.
Can I use my 5G phone on both Etisalat and DU?
Yes, as long as the device is carrier-unlocked and supports UAE 5G bands.
Do I need a special SIM card for 5G?
In most cases, your existing 4G SIM will work. However, some older SIMs may need upgrading. Check with your provider.
Conclusion
5G is rapidly transforming the mobile experience in the UAE. With top options from Samsung, Apple, Xiaomi, and more, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a gamer, streamer, or casual user. Before making a purchase, consider your location, your network (Etisalat or DU), and your budget.
To get the most out of your 5G phone, make sure you’re in a covered area and using a compatible device with a 5G-ready plan. The 5G phones UAE market is more exciting than ever—now’s the perfect time to upgrade.
