Retailers across the UAE report strong demand from individuals, families, and businesses, with particularly high sales of 75-inch and larger televisions.
UAE retailers say demand for large televisions has surged by up to 40 per cent ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, with both individual football fans and commercial buyers driving sales.
Top electronics stores and e-commerce platforms report strong interest from households as well as cafes, restaurants, and businesses preparing for the global football tournament.
Rajat Asthana, CEO of Eros Group, said sales of larger television panels have increased by 10–20 per cent compared to last year, supported by the growing availability of 98-inch and above screen sizes across more brands’ product ranges.
“Sizes such as 75–85 inches, and particularly 98-inch models, have seen stronger demand compared to last year across brands like Samsung and TCL. Most of this demand is coming from individual consumers upgrading to larger screens, supported by a narrowing price gap between mid-range and premium TVs,” Asthana told Khaleej Times.
The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 across 16 cities—11 in the US, three in Mexico, and two in Canada. Most matches are scheduled after 8pm UAE time.
Jumbo Electronics also confirmed sustained demand for 75-inch to 98-inch TVs since early 2026.
“Consumers are increasingly prioritising larger screens and higher picture quality for a more immersive home viewing experience. Across the market, brands are introducing advanced technologies and premium entertainment features,” a Jumbo spokesperson said.
115-inch models also gaining traction
Vineet Kumar, Head of the Visual Display Division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, said demand for large-screen TVs is rising steadily in the UAE ahead of the football season.
“Football brings people together, and consumers want a viewing experience that matches that excitement. Screens of 85 inches and above are seeing strong interest as households aim to recreate a stadium-like atmosphere at home. This trend has been building over months and is now accelerating as the tournament approaches,” he said.
He added that the strongest momentum is in the ultra-large segment, particularly 100-inch and 115-inch models, which offer a more cinematic experience.
“More broadly, 75-inch-and-above TVs are among the fastest-growing categories in the region, driven by the football season and a wider shift toward premium home entertainment.”
Kumar noted strong demand from both consumers and businesses.
“Households are upgrading their screens for shared viewing experiences, while hospitality venues, sports bars, hotels, and entertainment spaces are enhancing their setups to attract viewers.”
E-commerce platform Noon also reported strong demand for large-screen TVs ahead of the FIFA World Cup, with more customers upgrading home entertainment systems.
It added that demand is expected to rise further closer to the tournament, although some premium models may face limited availability due to global supply constraints.
Noon said 75-inch and above TVs are now among the fastest-growing segments, with demand up by more than 40 per cent compared to last year, driven mainly by households and football fans.
Price trends
Retailers said prices have been affected more by global supply shortages and higher manufacturing and logistics costs than demand alone.
Jumbo Electronics noted some cost increases due to supply chain challenges and said the market is expected to remain competitive, with promotional offers likely during the Eid and World Cup season.
Asthana added that TV prices have risen slightly by around 5–10 per cent due to demand and limited supply, but this has not significantly impacted overall sales.
