Dubai 'die-hard Apple fan' owns 53 iPhones, from first model to foldable Duo - What's his next dream?

Mohammed Shakaa didn’t walk into the Apple Store in Dubai with just a phone to exchange or pick up a new device. He arrived with 53 iPhones spanning nearly two decades of Apple’s history, turning an ordinary collection into a remarkable display of devotion to the tech giant.

From the first generation iPhone to the iPhone 18 Pro Max, Shakaa brought his entire collection to the store after Apple employees contacted him the previous day and asked him to bring the device with him. His mission was to collect two Apple iPhone Duos, the latest additions to a collection he had been building for years.

According to Khaleej Times, Dubai residents’ fascination with Apple goes far beyond owning the latest gadgets. For him, each iPhone represents a chapter in the development of technology – and a personal challenge to collect as many models as possible.

“I have almost an entire collection of iPhones, from the first generation to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. For some models, I have one or two phones in different colors. I keep them on display at home,” Shakaa was quoted as saying by Khaleej Times.

Hailing from Karachi, Shakaa has made collecting iPhones a passion that has lasted nearly 20 years. While his collection includes several devices from other brands such as Motorola and Samsung, his allegiance remains firmly with Apple.

“My real interest has always been Apple,” he said.

“I’m a die-hard Apple fan,” Shakaa added, explaining that each new generation brings changes to the camera, touchscreen, battery and operating system. He’s watched this evolve over the years and said experiencing the evolution firsthand is what keeps his enthusiasm alive.

Three years in a row first

Shakaa’s excitement over the latest Apple devices didn’t start with the latest launch. He told the newspaper that he had been following rumors of Apple’s foldable phone for more than three years, waiting for the day when the speculation would finally turn into reality.

“When Apple Duo reservations opened, I got a chance to book it. I’ve been waiting for it for more than three years. It was only speculated before, but it’s finally here. Today I’m very happy to get it,” he said.

The latest addition to the collection also marked a personal milestone: Shakaa said he was among the first people in line for Apple’s big unveiling three years in a row.

“It’s been back to back for the last three years and today my hat-trick is complete,” he said.

Having achieved that goal, he now wants other Apple fans to experience the excitement of being among the first buyers, rather than the disappointment of missing out.

His next big Apple dream

However, the journey is far from over for Shaka. His next ambition will take him beyond Dubai and to Apple’s home state of California, where he hopes to attend a future show and secure the coveted first row seat.

“I want to go to California for the next Apple launch and be number one there,” he said, according to the news source. “I want to represent myself and show them how far my madness has gone for these phones.

Read also | Apple iPhone Duo review: Revolutionary foldable or expensive collector’s item?