Zeyad Fouad from Dubai raises an intriguing question: “Is there a more suitable location than Dubai for launching innovative projects?” This thought was echoed by Dibo Zhang, General Manager of HONOR GCC, in an interview with Al Bayan. He elaborated on why the Middle East was chosen for the debut of HONOR’s new device, the Magic 8 Pro. Zhang described Dubai as an exemplary setting for this launch, embodying the essence of ambition, creativity, and continuous innovation upon which this device is built.

Zhang noted that Dubai stands as a prominent center for technological advancement, particularly in the realm of next-generation technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging 5.5G networks. He stressed that Dubai’s atmosphere is perfect for revealing the talents of the HONOR Magic 8 Pro, especially among early adopters keen on discovering the latest tech innovations. With a diverse mix of creatives, entrepreneurs, and influencers residing in the city, it offers an unparalleled environment for testing a device geared towards photography and AI.

Moreover, hosting the launch event in Dubai enhances HONOR’s visibility on both regional and international scales. Zhang stated that Dubai’s reputation as a major global destination amplifies the company’s announcements, ensuring a stronger presence worldwide. He emphasized that this strategic decision aligns seamlessly with HONOR’s long-term objectives in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), where Dubai plays a crucial role in fortifying the brand’s leadership in the region.

As for technological advancements, Zhang highlighted that the UAE is one of the few nations prepared to fully exploit the potential of 5.5G. With telecom companies, particularly e&, at the forefront of global network advancements, the UAE emerges as an ideal venue for this technology launch. Zhang elaborated on the advantages of 5.5G, which include dramatically improved speed, stability, and responsiveness. Users can expect near-instant downloads of high-definition content, smoother streaming, and enhanced experiences in mobile gaming and cloud services, even in crowded settings.

Drawing attention to HONOR’s expanding presence in the GCC, Zhang revealed that 2025 has been momentous for the brand in the region. The Gulf states have evolved into some of the fastest-growing areas for HONOR globally, driven by the alignment of customer needs with their innovations. He noted significant growth, particularly in the UAE, attributed to high demand for mid-range and high-end devices that offer essential features like robust performance and advanced battery life. Key factors contributing to this success include the company’s leadership in AI photography, extensive retail presence, strategic partnerships with telecom operators, and commitment to excellent post-sale services—elements that have cemented HONOR’s status as a rapidly growing tech brand in the region.