The Best Watch Brands in UAE

Rolex is one of the most famous names when it comes to watches. A name synonymous with luxury and precision, Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London. It was renowned for pioneering innovations such as the waterproof Oyster case and the self-winding Perpetual rotor.

The brand's extensive range includes iconic models like the Submariner, Daytona, and the Datejust. Known for their timeless designs and robust craftsmanship, Rolex watches are not just timekeepers but symbols of status and accomplishment.

Rolex holds a special place in the heart of the UAE watch market. Recognizing the growing prominence of the Middle East in the 1950s, Rolex introduced Arabic dials, symbolizing prestige and luxury. The tradition continued with the highly sought-after Day-Date 40 Arabic Edition in 2016, featuring a platinum case, an ice-blue Arabic calendar dial, a diamond baguette bezel, and the iconic President bracelet in platinum. Rolex also made a special watch for the UAE, the Rolex Steel Date, Ref. 15000, made specifically for the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.

A comparatively ‘newer’ watch brand, Richard Mille was established in 1999 by Richard Mille and Dominique Guenat. Richard Mille has redefined the boundaries of contemporary watchmaking with its avant-garde designs and use of cutting-edge materials like carbon nanofiber and titanium making it one of the best watch brands in the UAE and the rest of the world. Richard Mille watches are ultra-light, durable, and visually striking. The brand's portfolio includes the iconic RM series, where each watch is a fusion of art, engineering, and precision.

Richard Mille has become a favourite among high-profile individuals. With exclusive watches made in collaboration with ex-Formula One driver Felippe Massa and Tennis prodigy Rafael Nadal, it has always maintained a close relationship with high-profile sports signifying its commitment to performance.

Richard Mille has established a strong presence in the UAE, especially among high-net-worth individuals and watch-enthusiasts. Among the UAE’s favourites is the RM 11-03 Flyback Chronograph, followed by models like RM 035, RM 055, RM 029, RM 030, RM 07-01, and RM 037 for women.

The brand has also crafted exclusive pieces for the UAE, such as the hard-to-find RM010 MBZ Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Limited Edition and the very rare RM011-UAE Titanium Flyback Chronograph, a limited edition of just 7 pieces in collaboration with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons.

Founded in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, Audemars Piguet has been a trailblazer in the world of horology. The brand is known for its iconic Royal Oak, a pioneering luxury sports watch, introduced in 1972. Audemars Piguet's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in their intricate complications and bold designs.

From the classic Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore models to the Jumbo Extra-thin and Perpetual, Audemars Piguet stands out as a popular and iconic watch brand. Seen on the wrists of several celebrities and royalty alike, makes it one of the most desirable watch brands in UAE. The brand's commitment to innovation is reflected in a diverse range of watches, making Audemars Piguet highly regarded in the UAE’s luxury watch market.

Audemars Piguet is very popular in UAE, particularly for the Royal Oak collection. To showcase its commitment to the UAE, Audemars Piguet created the highly desired ‘Royal Oak UAE Perpetual Calendar’. The 75-piece limited edition watch featured an icy blue watch face inspired by the Yas Marina F1 Grand Prix circuit in Abu Dhabi. It was sold exclusively to VIPs in the region and was sold out before its announcement.

Another exclusive piece is the incredibly rare ‘Middle East Edition’ 41mm Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon Extra-Thin in stainless steel. With only 25 pieces made, this model features a salmon-coloured dial with white gold Eastern-Arabic numerals and the “Evolution Tapisserie” pattern emanating from the center of the tourbillon. Very little is known about this watch, except that it has been seen on the wrists of the crown prince of Ajman, Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Naimi as well as Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, a member of the ruling family of Qatar.

One of the oldest watch brands in the world, Patek Philippe was established in 1839 by Antoine Norbert de Patek and François Czapek, later joined by Adrien Philippe. Patek Philippe boasts a legacy of crafting exquisite timepieces that have lasted for almost 2 centuries. The brand is known for its timeless elegance, precision, and complications and is undoubtedly one of the best watch brands in the UAE.

Patek Philippe has created some of the world's most complicated watches, including the Calibre 89 with 33 complications. Iconic collections like the Calatrava, Nautilus, and Aquanaut showcase the brand's versatility, catering to those who appreciate understated sophistication and horological complexity alike.

Patek Philippe is very famous and prized in the UAE. Its limited-edition watches are amongst some of the most desired watches on the planet. Among the special watches, some have been crafted specifically for the Middle East region. The Patek Philippe World Time Dubai Edition and the World Time Manama Edition pay homage to its loyal clients in the UAE and Bahrain. Additionally, the World Time Mecca edition honours Islam and the Holy City of Mecca with its emerald-green inner dial and special Mecca inscription on the city ring.

The platinum Ref. 5077 is also a testament to Patek Philippe's connection to the Arab world. Inspired by the ancient practice of Falconry, an integral part of the Bedouin culture for thousands of years, the watch features an enamel painting featuring two Arab horsemen about to go hunting with a falcon.

IWC Schaffhausen, founded by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones, has been a pioneer in engineering precision timepieces since 1868. Known for its aviation-inspired designs, IWC has consistently blended innovation with tradition.

The brand's iconic collections, such as the Pilot's Watches, Portugieser, and Aquatimer, reflect a commitment to technical excellence and timeless design. IWC's dedication to creating watches for adventurers and explorers has solidified its position as a leader in the world of Swiss watchmaking.

IWC Schaffhausen caters to the tastes of UAE’s watch enthusiasts, particularly those keen on limited editions. Famous among these is the IWC Portugieser Chronograph Dubai Edition. This unique piece features all numbers on the dark blue dial in Eastern Arabic script and is engraved with the logo of the Al Jalila Foundation, a charity dedicated to promoting medical education and addressing healthcare issues in the Gulf.

These watches have become more than mere accessories; they are tangible expressions of a culture that values craftsmanship, exclusivity, and the timeless beauty of a well-crafted timepiece. From the innovative designs of Richard Mille to the classic allure of Patek Philippe, each watch is a reflection of individuality and status. In the heart of the UAE, where time is both a precious commodity and a canvas for self-expression, these watches tell a story of opulence and refined taste.