HMD finally realises phones aren't enough — launches earbuds and watches
HMD expands beyond smartphones with DUB audio gear and smartwatches hitting UAE in January 2026. The X50 Pro earbuds promise 60-hour battery life whilst Watch X1 delivers five-day power — targeting practical features over flashy marketing.
HMD Global launched its DUB audio brand and first smartwatches in the Middle East, arriving in UAE, KSA, and Qatar. According to HMD's announcement, the DUB X50 Pro earbuds deliver 60 hours of total playtime with Hi-Fi DSP, whilst the Watch X1 smartwatch offers five days of battery life — marking the Finnish company's expansion beyond smartphones into lifestyle accessories.
Key Takeaways
- HMD DUB audio brand and smartwatches launch in UAE, KSA, Qatar starting January 2026.
- The DUB X50 Pro features Hi-Fi DSP, Active Noise Cancellation, and up to 60 hours total playtime.
- HMD Watch X1 offers five-day battery life with over 700 activity modes and AMOLED display.
- The launch marks HMD's first accessories debut in Middle East ahead of global rollout.
- Products will be available through leading retailers and online platforms with pricing announced closer to release.
What makes the DUB X50 Pro different?
The DUB X50 Pro leads HMD's three-tier audio lineup with DUB Platinum Sound powered by Hi-Fi DSP, Active Noise Cancellation, and AI-powered four-mic Environmental Noise Cancellation for calls. The earbuds deliver up to 60 hours of total playtime with fast charging, automatic in-ear detection, multipoint connectivity, and integrated voice assistant control.
The DUB range caters to different needs: P-Series for casual listening, S-Series with Dolby Audio and Environmental Noise Cancellation, and the premium X-Series. The X50 Pro's clean, minimal design doubles as a fashion accessory, whilst the HMD DUB Audio app enables sound customisation.
'DUB takes that spirit and turns it up. It's bold, expressive, and built for the way we live now, where sound is part of identity,' said Sanmeet Singh Kochhar, SVP of HMD Global for Europe, Asia, Middle East & Africa.
What smartwatches did HMD launch?
HMD introduced two smartwatches: the premium Watch X1 and versatile Watch P1. The Watch X1 features a large AMOLED display, five-day battery life, over 700 activity modes, remote health monitoring, ICE call assist, and customisable watchfaces. It comes in four finishes: bold green silicone with gunmetal dial, sleek black, metallic, and brown leather.
The Watch P1 offers a lightweight alternative with an HD display, a four-day battery, essential wellness tracking, and a minimalist design. Both watches emphasise HMD's 'human-first' philosophy, designed for users who want to move with purpose whilst staying connected.
'Every feature from health tracking and sports modes to customisable watchfaces is built to make every move matter,' Kochhar added. The watches provide seamless daily life management for active users seeking style and functionality.
How does HMD compare to existing audio brands?
HMD enters a crowded market where 60-hour battery life puts the X50 Pro ahead of many competitors. The company's 'human-first' approach focuses on practical features like automatic in-ear detection and multipoint connectivity — basics that some premium brands still bungle.
The three-tier strategy makes sense: casual listeners get the P-Series, whilst the X50 Pro targets those seeking premium sound without the premium attitude. For context, check our best headphones guide to see how current options perform in UAE conditions.
What's refreshing is HMD's honest marketing. No 'revolutionary' claims, just practical features that work. Whether that translates to actual quality remains to be seen when we get hands-on time with the products.
Should you wait for HMD's accessories?
The launch gives HMD time to get pricing right, but also means waiting while current options continue serving perfectly well. The X50 Pro's 60-hour battery life is genuinely impressive if accurate, and the five-day smartwatch battery beats most current options.
HMD's track record with smartphones shows they understand durability and practical design. The question is whether they can translate that into accessories where audio quality and health-sensor accuracy matter more than Nokia nostalgia.
For buyers considering budget headphones under Dhs 500, waiting might make sense. For those needing replacements now, established brands remain the safer choice until HMD proves itself in these new categories.
HMD DUB and smartwatch pricing in UAE
The DUB X50 Pro and full DUB range launch in UAE, KSA, and Qatar through leading retailers and online platforms. HMD Watch X1 and P1 will launch alongside the audio products. Given HMD's smartphone pricing strategy, expect competitive positioning against established audio and wearables brands in the Middle East market.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will HMD DUB audio and smartwatches be available in the UAE?
HMD DUB audio products and smartwatches will be available in the UAE, KSA, and Qatar starting January 2026 through leading retailers and online platforms.
What are the key features of the DUB X50 Pro earbuds?
The DUB X50 Pro features DUB Platinum Sound with Hi-Fi DSP, Active Noise Cancellation, AI-powered four-mic ENC, up to 60 hours total playtime, fast charging, automatic in-ear detection, multipoint connectivity, and integrated voice assistant control.
What smartwatches did HMD launch in the Middle East?
HMD launched two smartwatches: the premium HMD Watch X1 with AMOLED display and five-day battery, and the versatile HMD Watch P1 with HD display and four-day battery life.
What is the battery life of the HMD Watch X1?
The HMD Watch X1 offers up to five days of battery life, along with over 700 activity modes and customisable watchfaces.
How much will HMD DUB earbuds cost in UAE?
HMD has not announced specific pricing for the DUB range yet. Pricing will be revealed closer to the January 2026 launch date.
Written by
Subscribe to our newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates and news
Member discussion