Apple season is officially here, and the iPhone 17 is ready to steal the spotlight. The big reveal happens on September 9, 2025, at Apple’s much-anticipated “Awe-Dropping” keynote. For those of us in the UAE, the event goes live at 9:00 PM GST, which means your Tuesday night plans are officially sorted. And yes – pre-orders are just around the corner. So, come with me to find out everything we know so far about the iPhone 17 series and why we all pretty much need to be hyped about it.
Also read: Predictions For UAE’s 2026 Public Holidays – How Many Long Weekends Will There Be?
What Makes The iPhone 17 Different?
This year Apple rolling out a completely refreshed lineup. This year, we’re getting four models: the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The first thing you’ll notice is the sleek design and upgraded displays. Every model now comes with 120Hz ProMotion screens, no longer limited to the Pro series. That means smoother scrolling, brighter visuals, and an always-on display for everyone. The iPhone 17 Air is rumoured to be the slimmest iPhone yet, at just 5.5mm thick, making it ultra-light and stylish.
On the performance side, the phones will be powered by the brand-new A19 and A19 Pro chips, promising lightning-fast speeds, stronger multitasking, and better efficiency. The Pro models also pack in 12GB of RAM and an advanced vapour-chamber cooling system, so even gamers and heavy users won’t have to worry about overheating.
A Photographer’s Dream Upgrade
If you love snapping photos or creating content, the iPhone 17 series is going to make you very happy. The Pro and Pro Max models will feature a triple-lens 48MP setup, with improved telephoto zoom that could reach up to 8×. On the selfie side, the front camera has jumped to 24MP, perfect for crystal-clear shots and smoother video calls. For videographers, this year’s big upgrade is 8K recording and even the possibility of recording with front and rear cameras at the same time. Ideal for vloggers and creators on the go.
Battery Life That Actually Lasts
We all know the struggle of carrying a charger everywhere, but Apple seems to be tackling this head-on with the iPhone 17. The Pro Max is rumoured to come with a massive 5,000mAh battery, while the Pro will pack about 4,500mAh. Early reports suggest you’ll get up to 35 hours of video playback on the Pro, which is impressive.
On top of that, Apple is reportedly adding reverse wireless charging, meaning you could power up your AirPods or even a friend’s iPhone directly from your own device. Faster wireless charging speeds are also expected, so no more waiting forever to get to 100%.
Colours & Storage You’ll Actually Want
Apple is also switching things up with fresh new looks. Alongside the classic black, white, and grey, we could see exciting shades like dark blue, copper/orange, and maybe even purple or green. The Pro models will start at 256GB storage, while higher options will go all the way up for those who need tons of space for photos, videos, and apps. Accessories are also getting a refresh. There are rumours of Liquid Silicone cases, new TechWoven finishes, and even a magnetic cross-body strap for the Air model.
How Much Will It Cost In The UAE?
Now for the part everyone’s waiting for – the price. In the UAE, the lineup is expected to start around AED 3,799 for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air. The iPhone 17 Pro is likely to be priced around AED 4,499, while the Pro Max could range from AED 5,299 up to AED 6,999, depending on storage. So whether you’re looking for an entry-level upgrade or the maxed-out flagship, there’s an option for every budget.
iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16 – Will It Be Worth Upgrading?
If you’re still holding onto last year’s iPhone 16, you might be wondering if the upgrade is really worth it. Here’s the quick rundown:
- Display: All models now get 120Hz screens, not just the Pro.
- Performance: New A19 chip means faster processing and smoother multitasking.
- Cameras: Major jump with triple 48MP lenses, 24MP selfie cam, and 8K video.
- Battery: Bigger capacity with smarter charging and new reverse wireless charging.
- Design: Slimmer, lighter builds with fresh new colors.
In short, it’s not just a small step up – it’s a noticeable leap forward. But are the differences worth it to you?
When Is It Launching?
Apple’s much-anticipated keynote is officially set for September 9, and you can bet all eyes will be glued to the stage in Cupertino. This is where the iPhone 17 will finally get its grand introduction. But if you’re already planning a post-event mall trip in Dubai to pick one up, hold that thought. Apple hasn’t set the in-store release date yet. The event is all about the reveal, the buzz, and the “oohs and aahs.” The actual buying part will come a little bit later. But stay tuned to Gulf Buzz, as we’ll be the first to tell you the official launch details.
Why This Launch Feels Bigger Than Ever
Apple is calling this the “Awe-Dropping” event for a reason. With AI features baked into iOS 26, a sleek new design direction, and upgrades across performance, cameras, and battery life, the iPhone 17 is shaping up to be the most exciting iPhone in years. Visit Apple’s website and register now to be part of the event.
