Short answer
Check battery health, genuine parts, Activation Lock, model number, every button and sensor — and only buy with a real warranty.
A good certified used iPhone can save you thousands of dirhams. A bad one can cost you just as much. Use this checklist every time.
The 12-point checklist
- Battery health: Settings › Battery › Battery Health. Aim for 85%+ or a documented genuine replacement.
- Parts and service history: Settings › General › About — look for 'Unknown Part' messages.
- Activation Lock and Find My are off, and the phone isn't reported lost.
- Model number matches the seller's description, including UAE or international model and SIM type.
- Face ID or Touch ID works reliably.
- Every camera and lens works, including zoom and Portrait mode.
- Display has no lines, dead pixels, burn-in or touch dead zones.
- Speakers and microphones: make a call and record a video.
- Wired and wireless charging both work.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile data and GPS connect normally.
- Buttons, Action button or mute switch and vibration motor all work.
- A written warranty and a clear return policy.
Which used models are best value right now?
| Model | Why consider it |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 Pro | Near-current Pro with Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 16 Pro | Camera Control, 5x telephoto, Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 15 Pro | Cheapest iPhone with Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 13 Pro | Budget Pro with ProMotion and 3x telephoto |