Whether you’re a student, creative professional, casual user, or someone who just wants a reliable screen to binge-watch on, there’s an iPad in Apple’s 2025 lineup tailored to your needs. But choosing the right one can get confusing, especially with overlapping sizes and features.
We break down the four main iPad models available in the UAE — iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad (11th Gen), and iPad mini — and highlight who each is best for, how much they cost locally, and what you get (or don’t) with each.
📊 iPad Comparison Table (2025 UAE)
| Feature / Model | iPad Pro (M4) | iPad Air (M3) | iPad (11th Gen) | iPad mini (7th Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 11″ or 13″ OLED (Ultra Retina XDR) | 11″ or 13″ LCD (Liquid Retina) | 11″ LCD (Liquid Retina) | 8.3″ LCD (Liquid Retina) |
| Processor | M4 | M3 | A16 Bionic | A17 Pro |
| Apple Intelligence Support | ✅ Full features | ✅ Partial features | ❌ Not supported | ❌ Not supported |
| Storage Options | 256GB – 2TB | 128GB – 1TB | 64GB – 256GB | 128GB – 512GB |
| Biometric Security | Face ID | Touch ID (Power Button) | Touch ID (Power Button) | Touch ID (Power Button) |
| Apple Pencil Support | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil Pro | Apple Pencil (USB‑C) | Apple Pencil Pro |
| Keyboard Support | Magic Keyboard | Magic Keyboard | Magic Keyboard Folio | ❌ |
| Best For | Creatives, video editors, power users | Students, professionals, hybrid workers | Budget users, kids, light productivity | Reading, travel, kids, on-the-go use |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hrs | Up to 10 hrs | Up to 10 hrs | Up to 10 hrs |
| Starting Price (UAE) | AED 4,199 | AED 2,499 | AED 1,399 | AED 2,099 |
| Weight (Wi‑Fi models) | 444–582g | 462–617g | 477g | 293g |
iPad Pro: Best for Creatives & Power Users
Price in UAE: From AED 4,199 (11″, Wi-Fi)
Best for: Designers, video editors, tech enthusiasts, productivity nerds
The iPad Pro remains Apple’s no-compromise tablet, and the 2025 models have pushed that even further. With a blazing-fast M4 chip, the new iPad Pro comes in two sizes — 11 and 13 inches — and features an Ultra Retina Tandem OLED display that’s a visual feast. This makes it perfect for colour-accurate work, like photo editing and video production. The performance is on par with many laptops, especially when paired with the new Magic Keyboard that now offers a function row and aluminium palm rest.
What really sets the iPad Pro apart is Apple Intelligence support. While most iPads will get some AI functionality, the M4 chip unlocks the full experience, including real-time transcription, smart summarisation, and enhanced multitasking. It also features Face ID, a Thunderbolt port, and optional 5G connectivity on cellular models.
Of course, all this comes at a premium. With accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, you’re easily looking at a total that surpasses a MacBook Air. It’s not the iPad for everyone, but for professionals who rely on performance and a gorgeous display, this is the king of the lineup.
- Ultra Retina OLED display is the best on any tablet
- M4 chip enables full Apple Intelligence features
- Laptop-like performance and accessory support
- Top-tier cameras and Face ID
- Very expensive, especially with accessories
- Overkill for casual users
- No Touch ID (some may prefer it)
Best All-Rounder: iPad Air
Price in UAE: From AED 2,499 (Wi-Fi, 11″)
Best for: Students, professionals, content creators, remote workers
The 2025 iPad Air strikes a perfect balance between performance, portability, and price. It now comes in two sizes — 11 inches and 13 inches — giving users flexibility depending on their workflow or entertainment needs. Under the hood, it’s powered by the new M3 chip, making it fast enough for creative tasks, coding, and everyday productivity. And yes, it now supports Apple Intelligence features, making it future-ready for AI-enhanced workflows.
It also supports the new Apple Pencil Pro and the revamped Magic Keyboard, turning it into a compelling laptop alternative. Whether you’re attending university lectures, editing reels, or managing client documents, the iPad Air keeps up effortlessly. The design remains premium, with flat edges, USB-C support, and a bright Liquid Retina display that’s sharp and colour accurate.
The iPad Air lacks the OLED display and Face ID of the Pro model, and while it can handle video editing or gaming, the M4 chip in the Pro offers better sustained performance. That said, for most users who want more than the base iPad offers but don’t need all the Pro bells and whistles, this is the ideal middle ground.
- Powerful M3 chip with Apple Intelligence
- Lightweight and portable
- Great support for accessories
- Available in two display sizes
- No OLED screen or Face ID
- Storage options top out at 1TB
- Slightly pricier than the entry-level iPad
Best Value: iPad
Price in UAE: From AED 1,399 (Wi-Fi)
Best for: Everyday users, students, casual streaming, family use
If you’re on a budget or just need an iPad for general tasks like browsing, video calls, Netflix, and schoolwork, the 11th-generation iPad is the one to beat. Now with the A16 Bionic chip — the same one found in the iPhone 15 — it offers smooth performance for apps, multitasking, and even light gaming. It retains the same 11-inch Liquid Retina display from its predecessor, making it a solid media device.
Despite being the most affordable iPad, Apple didn’t compromise on quality. You still get USB-C charging, Centre Stage on the front-facing camera for video calls, and support for accessories like the Magic Keyboard Folio and Apple Pencil (USB-C version). It’s not compatible with the new Pencil Pro, but that’s hardly a deal-breaker for its target users.
There’s no Face ID or laminated screen, and the speakers and display aren’t as vibrant as the Air or Pro. But at this price point, you’re getting a ton of tablet for your money — especially if you’re a student or casual user. It also qualifies for educational discounts in the UAE, making it even more attractive.
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Solid A16 Bionic chip for general use
- Centre Stage and USB-C support
- Ideal for students and families
- Basic display and speakers
- Limited accessory compatibility
- No Apple Intelligence features
Best for Portability: iPad mini
Price in UAE: From AED 2,099 (Wi-Fi)
Best for: On-the-go users, avid readers, kids, commuters
The iPad mini is in a league of its own. It’s the only compact iPad with an 8.3-inch display, but don’t let the size fool you — it’s powered by Apple’s A17 Pro chip, the same one found in the iPhone 15 Pro series. That gives it flagship performance in a body that fits in a jacket pocket or small purse. It’s ideal for reading, travelling, quick note-taking, or using as a smart home hub.
In 2025, the iPad mini continues to support the Apple Pencil Pro, which opens up possibilities for sketching and jotting on the go. It also has USB-C, Centre Stage, and the latest iPadOS features. The display, while LCD, is laminated and sharp, and the overall build quality is excellent.
The main drawback is that the UI and app scaling can feel cramped for productivity tasks. Typing on the screen for long periods isn’t ideal, and while the performance is great, it lacks the accessory ecosystem of larger iPads. But for those who value portability without compromising speed, the iPad mini is the perfect fit.
- Ultra-portable and powerful
- A17 Pro chip delivers great performance
- Apple Pencil Pro support
- Great for reading, travel, and kids
- No Smart Keyboard support
- Small screen is not ideal for multitasking
- Pricier than the 11th-gen iPad
Final Thoughts: Which iPad Is Right for You?
Apple’s 2025 iPad lineup offers something for everyone — whether you’re a student on a budget, a creative professional needing cutting-edge performance, or a parent looking for a durable family tablet.
The iPad Pro stands out as the ultimate powerhouse, boasting its M4 chip and OLED display, while the iPad Air offers premium features at a more approachable price. The 11th-gen iPad remains a reliable, value-packed choice for everyday tasks, and the iPad mini continues to win hearts with its unbeatable portability and flagship performance.
FAQs
Which iPad is best for students in the UAE?
The iPad Air (M3) is the best overall choice for students in 2025. It offers excellent performance with Apple Intelligence support, Apple Pencil Pro compatibility for note-taking, and Magic Keyboard support for assignments. Budget-conscious students can also consider the iPad (11th Gen), which starts at just AED 1,399.
Can an iPad replace a laptop for work or school?
Yes — particularly the iPad Pro and iPad Air models when paired with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil. With support for multitasking, external displays, file management, and Apple Intelligence features, they function very similarly to a MacBook for most users.
What’s the cheapest iPad available in the UAE right now?
The most affordable option is the iPad (11th Gen), starting at AED 1,399. It’s perfect for everyday tasks, streaming, schoolwork, and casual gaming.
Which iPad is best for travel and portability?
The iPad mini (7th Gen) is the most portable model, thanks to its compact 8.3-inch display and lightweight design. It’s ideal for commuters, frequent travelers, and ebook readers.
Do all iPads support Apple Intelligence features?
No. Only iPads with M-series chips (M3 and above) support Apple Intelligence. This means the iPad Pro (M4) and iPad Air (M3) currently support these advanced AI features. The iPad mini and 11th-gen iPad do not.
Which iPads are compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro?
Only the iPad Pro (M4), iPad Air (M3), and iPad mini (7th Gen) support the new Apple Pencil Pro. The 11th-gen iPad only works with the more basic Apple Pencil USB-C.
Do iPads in the UAE support 5G?
Cellular models of the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini support 5G in the UAE. The iPad (11th Gen) also comes in a cellular version; however, please check with your local provider for exact band compatibility.
