{"id":42959,"date":"2026-05-26T06:57:02","date_gmt":"2026-05-26T06:57:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/?p=42959"},"modified":"2026-05-26T07:16:40","modified_gmt":"2026-05-26T07:16:40","slug":"uae-supporters-gear-up-for-fifa-world-cup-as-demand-for-televisions-surges-rapidly","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/2026\/05\/26\/uae-supporters-gear-up-for-fifa-world-cup-as-demand-for-televisions-surges-rapidly\/","title":{"rendered":"UAE supporters gear up for FIFA World Cup as demand for televisions surges rapidly."},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Retailers operating across both digital platforms and brick-and-mortar stores in the UAE are witnessing a significant rise in demand for televisions as anticipation builds for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Industry participants report that the surge is not limited to a single type of buyer but instead spans across multiple customer groups, including individual consumers, families planning group viewing setups at home, and commercial establishments such as cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues that expect higher customer turnout during the tournament period.<\/p>

A major highlight of the current market trend is the strong preference for larger television screens, particularly those measuring 75 inches and above. Sales data shared by market participants indicate that demand for large-screen TVs in the UAE has risen by as much as 40 percent ahead of the global football tournament scheduled for next month. This increase reflects a combination of changing consumer preferences, improved affordability of large screens, and growing interest in creating more immersive viewing experiences at home and in public venues.<\/p>

Retailers across both traditional electronics stores and e-commerce platforms confirm that this demand is widespread and consistent. The growth is not being driven solely by passionate football fans purchasing televisions for personal use, but also by business owners in the hospitality sector who are preparing for increased customer engagement during match days. Many cafes, restaurants, and lounges are upgrading their entertainment systems in anticipation of higher footfall, aiming to provide a more engaging and communal viewing environment for sports enthusiasts.<\/p>

Industry experts note that the shift toward larger screen sizes has been gradual but has accelerated significantly in recent years, particularly during major international sporting events. The FIFA World Cup, being one of the most widely watched global tournaments, has historically influenced consumer electronics sales, especially televisions. This year appears to be no different, with retailers reporting early and sustained interest from buyers well ahead of the tournament\u2019s kickoff.<\/p>

According to Rajat Asthana, Chief Executive Officer of Eros Group, the demand for larger television panels has shown a notable increase compared to the previous year. He explained that sales for big-screen models have grown by approximately 10 to 20 percent year-on-year, driven by both product availability and shifting consumer expectations. Asthana highlighted that manufacturers have expanded their offerings in the large-screen category, with several brands introducing ultra-large models exceeding 98 inches, making them more accessible to a broader customer base.<\/p>

He further pointed out that screen sizes in the 75-inch to 85-inch range, along with the premium 98-inch category, have seen particularly strong demand growth. Brands such as Samsung and TCL have been among those experiencing increased interest in these segments. According to him, consumers are increasingly opting for larger screens not only for sports viewing but also for general home entertainment purposes, including movies, streaming services, and gaming.<\/p>

One of the key factors contributing to this trend, Asthana noted, is the narrowing price difference between large-screen televisions and smaller or mid-sized models. In previous years, upgrading to a significantly larger screen often required a substantial financial investment. However, as manufacturing costs have become more competitive and production scales have increased, the price gap has reduced considerably. This has encouraged many consumers to upgrade their televisions sooner than they might have originally planned.<\/p>

Asthana also emphasized that the demand is primarily being driven by individual consumers who are looking to enhance their home viewing experience. With the increasing popularity of streaming platforms and high-definition content, households are placing greater importance on display quality and screen size. As a result, many buyers are willing to invest in larger televisions that offer a more cinematic experience within the comfort of their homes.<\/p>

In addition to individual buyers, the hospitality and retail sectors are also playing a crucial role in driving sales. Businesses such as cafes and restaurants are preparing for increased customer engagement during the World Cup period by upgrading their audiovisual setups. Larger screens are seen as a key factor in attracting customers and encouraging longer stays, especially during live sports broadcasts that draw large crowds.<\/p>

The FIFA World Cup, now in its 23rd edition, is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19. The tournament will be hosted across 16 cities spread across three countries, including 11 cities in the United States, three in Mexico, and two in Canada. This wide distribution of venues highlights the global scale of the event and its ability to attract audiences from around the world.<\/p>

For viewers in the UAE, the timing of the matches is also an important factor contributing to the expected surge in television consumption. Most matches are scheduled to take place after 8 pm UAE time, making them more convenient for evening viewing. This timing aligns well with both home entertainment habits and peak hours for hospitality venues, further supporting increased demand for large-screen displays.<\/p>

Retail chain Jumbo Electronics has also reported a similar upward trend in sales of large televisions. The company confirmed that demand for screens in the 75-inch to 98-inch category has remained consistently strong since the beginning of 2026. This sustained interest suggests that the growth is not purely seasonal but also part of a longer-term shift in consumer preferences toward larger and more advanced home entertainment systems.<\/p>

A spokesperson from Jumbo Electronics explained that modern consumers are increasingly prioritizing immersive viewing experiences. Rather than focusing solely on basic functionality, buyers are now more interested in achieving cinema-like quality at home. This includes preferences for larger screen sizes, higher resolution displays, and improved color accuracy.<\/p>

The spokesperson added that across the market, leading television manufacturers are continuously introducing newer technologies designed to enhance viewing experiences. These advancements include improvements in display panels, smarter operating systems, and enhanced connectivity features that allow seamless integration with streaming services and other digital platforms.<\/p>

Another important factor contributing to rising demand is the rapid evolution of television technology. Features such as ultra-high-definition resolution, OLED and QLED panels, higher refresh rates, and advanced HDR capabilities have become increasingly common in newer models. These innovations not only improve picture quality but also enhance the overall user experience, making large televisions more appealing to a wider audience.<\/p>

Consumers today are also more informed and selective when making purchasing decisions. With greater access to product reviews, online comparisons, and digital marketplaces, buyers are actively seeking models that offer the best combination of size, performance, and value. This has led to a more competitive market environment, where manufacturers and retailers are constantly updating their offerings to meet evolving expectations.<\/p>

The growing affordability of large-screen televisions has also played a significant role in expanding the customer base. As prices continue to become more competitive, products that were once considered luxury items are now increasingly accessible to middle-income households. This democratization of large-screen technology has contributed significantly to the overall rise in demand.<\/p>

In addition, promotional campaigns and seasonal offers by retailers have further stimulated purchases. Many stores are offering discounts, bundled deals, and installment payment options, making it easier for consumers to upgrade their home entertainment systems ahead of major sporting events like the World Cup.<\/p>

Overall, the UAE television market is experiencing a strong upward trajectory driven by a combination of sporting excitement, technological advancement, and changing consumer behavior. The upcoming FIFA World Cup is acting as a major catalyst, encouraging both individual buyers and businesses to invest in larger and more advanced screens.<\/p>

As the tournament approaches, industry experts expect this momentum to continue, with further spikes in demand likely in the weeks leading up to kickoff. With fans eager to enjoy matches in high definition on bigger screens, retailers anticipate one of the strongest sales periods in recent years for the television segment, particularly in the premium large-screen category.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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115-inch models in demand<\/h3>

Vineet Kumar, who leads the Visual Display Division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, has highlighted a noticeable and ongoing rise in consumer interest for larger television screens across the UAE market as excitement builds ahead of the football season and the upcoming FIFA World Cup. According to him, this growth is not a sudden spike but rather a steady trend that has been developing over recent months and is now gaining even more momentum as the tournament approaches.<\/p>

He explained that football has always had a strong emotional pull for viewers, often transforming ordinary TV viewing into a shared social experience. Because of this, many consumers are now trying to enhance the atmosphere at home by investing in larger and more advanced screens. In his view, people are no longer satisfied with standard viewing setups; instead, they are actively seeking displays that can recreate the intensity and scale of watching a live match in a stadium environment.<\/p>

Kumar pointed out that screens measuring 85 inches and above are currently attracting particularly strong attention from buyers. These larger formats are becoming increasingly popular among households that want a more immersive and engaging viewing experience, especially during major sporting events where group viewing is common. He noted that this demand reflects a broader shift in consumer expectations, where television is no longer just a device for watching content but a central part of home entertainment and social gatherings.<\/p>

He further added that the most dynamic growth is being seen in the ultra-large television category, especially models that are 100 inches and 115 inches in size. These premium displays are designed to offer a near-cinematic experience within a residential setting, allowing viewers to enjoy sports, films, and other content on a scale that closely resembles a theater. According to Kumar, this segment is expanding rapidly as more consumers become willing to invest in high-end home entertainment systems.<\/p>

Beyond individual product categories, he also emphasized that the overall 75-inch-and-above segment is one of the fastest-growing areas within the television industry in the region. This growth is being driven by a combination of seasonal demand linked to football events and a long-term trend toward larger screen adoption. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing size and picture quality, viewing them as essential elements of modern entertainment setups.<\/p>

Kumar also highlighted that demand is not limited to residential buyers alone. Instead, it is coming from both consumer households and commercial establishments, indicating that interest in large-screen televisions is widespread across different sectors. On the consumer side, families are upgrading their home entertainment systems so they can watch matches together in a more engaging and comfortable environment. Watching football has increasingly become a social activity at home, where friends and family gather around the television to enjoy the game collectively.<\/p>

On the business side, he noted that hospitality and entertainment venues are also investing heavily in upgrading their display systems. Sports bars, hotels, cafes, lounges, and other public gathering spaces are preparing for increased customer traffic during the World Cup period. These establishments are enhancing their viewing setups to provide guests with a high-quality, immersive experience that can match or even surpass home viewing environments. Larger screens are seen as a key factor in attracting and retaining customers during live match screenings.<\/p>

Meanwhile, the UAE\u2019s leading e-commerce platform Noon has also reported a strong increase in demand for large-screen televisions ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The company noted that more consumers are actively upgrading their home entertainment systems in preparation for the global sporting event. According to a spokesperson from Noon, the expectation is that demand will continue to rise as the tournament draws closer, although availability of certain premium models may become limited due to global supply chain constraints affecting the electronics industry.<\/p>

Noon also stated that the most popular category at present includes televisions that are 75 inches and larger. This segment has emerged as one of the fastest-growing product categories for several major brands, including Samsung, TCL, Hisense, and LG. The rising interest in these models reflects a clear consumer preference shift toward bigger screens that offer more immersive visuals and enhanced viewing comfort.<\/p>

Compared to the previous year, the e-commerce company has recorded a significant increase in demand for televisions in the 75-inch-and-above category, with growth exceeding 40 percent. This rise is largely attributed to consumers preparing for major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup, where large-scale viewing experiences are especially valued. The data suggests that customers are increasingly willing to invest in premium home entertainment products when global events create heightened viewing interest.<\/p>

Noon further explained that the majority of purchases are being made by individual consumers, particularly families and football enthusiasts who are upgrading their home setups ahead of the tournament. For many households, purchasing a larger television is seen as a way to enhance the overall experience of watching live matches, especially when games are broadcast during convenient evening hours.<\/p>

At the same time, the company has observed growing demand from commercial and semi-commercial sectors. Cafes, lounges, hotels, and other hospitality venues are actively expanding their entertainment setups in anticipation of increased visitor numbers during the World Cup. Additionally, newly occupied residential buildings and housing communities are also contributing to the demand, as more residents look to set up or upgrade their living spaces in preparation for the event.<\/p>

Overall, both Samsung Gulf Electronics and Noon are observing a consistent pattern across the market: consumers are moving toward larger, more advanced television screens, driven by a combination of sporting excitement, improved affordability, and evolving entertainment preferences. As the FIFA World Cup approaches, this trend is expected to strengthen further, with both retail and e-commerce channels preparing for continued strong sales in the large-screen TV segment.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Price increase<\/h3>

Noon has pointed out that the recent changes in large television pricing are being influenced more by external supply-side pressures than by demand within the UAE market itself. According to the company, global factors such as shortages in key components, disruptions in manufacturing, and increased freight and logistics expenses are playing a more significant role in shaping retail prices than local consumer buying trends. In other words, while demand for big-screen TVs remains strong, it is not the primary reason behind price fluctuations in the current market environment.<\/p>

Retailers across the UAE have echoed similar observations, noting that television prices have experienced some upward movement in recent months. However, they clarified that this increase is not solely driven by heightened consumer interest ahead of major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup. Instead, it is a combined result of rising global supply chain costs and ongoing logistical challenges that have affected the electronics industry on a broader scale. These issues have made it more expensive for manufacturers and distributors to produce, transport, and stock large-screen televisions.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Jumbo Electronics has also acknowledged that the industry is facing moderate cost pressure due to international supply constraints and component-related difficulties. These challenges include fluctuations in the availability of essential parts used in manufacturing display panels, as well as increased transportation costs associated with moving finished goods across regions. As a result, retailers have had to adjust pricing structures slightly to reflect these additional expenses.<\/p>

Despite these cost increases, market participants emphasize that competition within the UAE retail sector remains strong. Retailers are actively preparing for upcoming high-demand periods, including the Eid season and the FIFA World Cup shopping window. During these times, companies typically introduce promotional campaigns, bundled offers, and discount packages to attract customers and stimulate sales. These marketing strategies are expected to help balance out any pricing pressures caused by supply chain issues, ensuring that consumers still have access to competitive deals.<\/p>

A spokesperson from Jumbo noted that while the industry is experiencing some upward pressure on costs, the overall market environment continues to be highly competitive. Retailers are expected to use seasonal promotions strategically, particularly during major shopping periods when consumer interest in electronics tends to spike. The combination of festive shopping during Eid and the global excitement around the FIFA World Cup is likely to create one of the most active retail periods of the year for television sales.<\/p>

The spokesperson also emphasized that, despite these fluctuations, the majority of current demand still originates from individual consumers. Many households are upgrading their home entertainment systems in preparation for large-scale sporting events, as well as general improvements in home viewing experiences. This includes purchasing larger screens, higher-resolution displays, and more advanced smart TV features that support streaming and connectivity.<\/p>

Industry executive Rajat Asthana also commented on the pricing situation, noting that there has been a modest increase in television prices in the range of approximately 5 to 10 percent. He explained that this change is primarily the result of a combination of strong demand and limited supply availability in certain segments of the market. However, he stressed that this price adjustment has not had a significant negative impact on overall business performance.<\/p>

According to Asthana, consumer interest remains strong enough to absorb these minor price changes without affecting purchasing behavior in a meaningful way. Buyers who are motivated by upcoming events such as the FIFA World Cup are still proceeding with their purchases, particularly when it comes to larger screen categories. The appeal of upgrading to bigger, more immersive televisions continues to outweigh concerns over relatively small price increases.<\/p>

He also suggested that the current pricing environment should be viewed in the context of a broader global electronics market, where fluctuations in supply chains and manufacturing costs are common. In such conditions, temporary price adjustments are often expected, especially for high-demand consumer electronics like televisions.<\/p>

Overall, the UAE television market is currently operating in a balanced but dynamic environment. On one hand, strong consumer demand\u2014driven largely by seasonal events and evolving entertainment preferences\u2014is supporting sales growth. On the other hand, global supply chain constraints and rising logistics costs are exerting upward pressure on prices. Despite these challenges, the market remains competitive, with retailers relying on promotions and bundled offers to maintain customer interest and affordability.<\/p>

As major shopping periods such as Eid and the FIFA World Cup approach, both retailers and manufacturers are preparing for increased activity. While prices may continue to experience slight fluctuations, industry players expect demand for large-screen televisions to remain robust, supported by strong consumer enthusiasm for enhanced home viewing experiences.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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