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# Smartphone shipments dropped to 8.8 million units in the Middle East in Q1 2023
- URL: https://www.techloy.com/middle-east-smartphone-market-q1-2023/
- Published: 2023-05-22T11:37:51.000Z
- Updated: 2023-05-22T11:37:51.000Z
- Author: Emmanuel Oyedeji
- Tags: / Insights, Mobile, Tech in the Middle East

According to the latest *Canalys* research, the Middle East (excluding Turkey) experienced a 3.5% annual decline in smartphone shipments reaching only 8.8 million units during Q1 2023\. This decline marks an end to the region’s nine-month growth streak, however, it outperformed the [global market's 14% decline in the quarter](https://www.techloy.com/smartphone-market-declined-14-6-percent-q1-2023/).

Economic challenges such as inflation, interest rate hikes, and geopolitical uncertainties impacted the region. Despite these hurdles, Samsung and Apple maintained their market volumes through strong after-sale services and brand perception. Xiaomi aimed to break into the high-end market, while Tecno and Infinix targeted the mid-low segment in key markets like Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2023/05/Middle-East_-Smartphone-Shipments--Q1-2022-vs-Q1-2023-.jpeg)

Among Middle Eastern countries, Saudi Arabia saw modest growth of 1%, driven by increased consumer spending on essential items. The UAE faced a 3% decline, Iraq experienced lower demand, and Kuwait had an 11% decline due to consumer reluctance to upgrade. In contrast, Israel achieved a remarkable 26% growth, propelled by demand for premium smartphones and its thriving tech industry.

Looking ahead *Canalys* expects the Middle East smartphone market to maintain similar shipment levels as the previous year in 2023 as the broader Middle East region continues to face economic challenges.