Apple's iPhone 18 Launch Sparks Global Buying Frenzy

Apple's iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max went on sale in India and the UAE on September 18, 2026, drawing overnight queues and strong pre-order demand. In India, buyers spent lakhs as festive electronics prices climbed, while the new iPhone arrived faster than a pizza. In the UAE, resellers capitalized on the launch, with one pre-order fetching Dh550,000. Apple Pay is also eyeing an India rollout with Axis Bank, according to sources. In Vietnam, iPhone 18 Pro Max pre-order slots were resold for a $340 premium.