Introduction of OnePlus Open
The OnePlus Open review for the UAE market brings to light a smartphone that defies expectations: a foldable device that is astonishingly lightweight yet convincingly durable. With foldables often criticized for fragility, the OnePlus Open stands out for its robust engineering combined with a slim profile. For users in the UAE looking for a premium foldable that balances style, functionality and build-quality, the OnePlus Open offers an intriguing proposition. In this review we examine how the OnePlus Open’s design, materials, durability and foldable mechanics come together—why this foldable may feel safe in your hand, even in Dubai’s dynamic environment.
Compact Yet Premium Build & Materials
One of the first things that stand out in the OnePlus Open review is how the device manages to maintain a lightweight build without compromising on premium materials. According to one in-depth review, the OnePlus Open weighs about 239g and has a folded thickness of around 11.7mm, making it “one of the thinnest foldables around”. The company also uses aerospace-grade materials: a custom “Flexion Hinge” crafted from a zirconium-based amorphous alloy, along with titanium alloy and carbon-fibre support structures. For the UAE user who might carry their phone everywhere—commute, outdoor, car rides—the slim, light build means the OnePlus Open doesn’t feel like a bulky burden. Yet the hardened materials give it the look and feel of something built to last rather than just to look good. This fusion of lightweight design and strong materials is a key reason the OnePlus Open review often emphasizes durability despite the slender form factor.
Hinge Engineering and Fold Mechanism: Built for Daily Use
In foldables, the hinge mechanism is a critical point of concern, especially in dust-heavy or humid environments like the UAE. The OnePlus Open features what OnePlus calls the “Flexion Hinge” which uses a single-spine architecture of only 69 components – significantly simpler than traditional multi-component hinges. The materials used (titanium alloy, amorphous alloy) provide tensile strength four-times that of regular stainless steel, according to reviews. In practical usage, reviewers note that the hinge “opens and closes with minimal effort” and “feels sturdy and stable at any angle”. For UAE users who might open their phone in cafes, in the car, or while lounging outdoors, this smooth hinge action and durable materials help ensure the foldable experience doesn’t feel fragile. While no foldable is completely invulnerable, the OnePlus Open sets higher standards in the build domain.
Durability Under Real-World Conditions
The claim “feels durable despite its lightweight build” is substantiated in multiple user and review anecdotes. One reviewer mentions: “Despite the thin profile, the OnePlus Open feels like a tank.” Another review points out that the device has Gorilla Glass Victus for the cover display and a custom ceramic shield for the main screen, suggesting that despite being lightweight, durability was built in. In the UAE context—where sand, dust, occasional water spray (especially near beaches or outdoor cafes) and heat are common—such build quality matters. While the OnePlus Open only carries IPX4 splash-resistance (no dust rating) so caution remains necessary around water and dust ingress. That said, many users on forums report using the phone in everyday rough conditions: “I’ve dropped it twice no issues at all.” These real-world user comments suggest that for normal use, the OnePlus Open holds up better than many might expect from a foldable device.
Lightweight Design Doesn’t Mean Compromised Specs
Often a lighter build means compromises. With the OnePlus Open, that isn’t the case. The specs are flagship level: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB storage in many variants. Two displays: an external 6.31″ screen and an internal 7.82″ foldable display.
Despite this, the phone remains relatively light for a full-sized foldable—thanks to the materials and hinge engineering. The OnePlus Open review emphasises that “for a 2-in-1 device, the OnePlus Open is compact and feels good in the hand”. For UAE buyers who demand high performance but dislike bulky phones, the OnePlus Open offers a potent combination: top-tier hardware wrapped in a sleek, manageable form factor. It doesn’t feel like sacrificing durability for style.
Premium Features & Value for UAE Market
From the OnePlus Open review perspective, the device also brings premium experiences: Hasselblad-tuned triple-camera system (48MP main, 64MP periscope zoom, 48MP ultra-wide) and lightning-fast 67W wired charging. In the UAE, where high-end smartphones are common and users expect more than just a “good enough” build, the OnePlus Open’s durability cred (single-spine hinge, aerospace materials, lightweight feel) becomes a real differentiator. The fact that OnePlus claims the hinge is tested for over 1 million folds adds confidence. Yes, there are caveats (no wireless charging, limited water/dust resistance), but if you value the “feels durable despite lightweight build” promise, the OnePlus Open stands out. In the UAE foldable market, where the big players dominate, this model offers a strong alternative for those willing to invest in a premium foldable.
Value & Suitability for UAE Market
If you’re considering the OnePlus Open in the UAE, here are some factors worth noting:
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The blend of lightweight build and durable materials gives you premium feel without bulk — good for commuting, business-travel, lifestyle usage.
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Foldable form factor gives you versatility: tablet-like screen when open, phone-like when closed — this can matter for on-the-go productivity in GCC markets.
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Durability credentials (hinge, material, drop tests) align with real-world usage scenarios (bags, travel, outdoor, sunlight).
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Local climate: high temperature, dust, sand — the build matters. The All-metal frame + robust hinge + strong materials help the OnePlus Open stand out.
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Keep in mind service and support: foldables generally cost more to repair, and in the UAE market you’ll want to ensure good local service and availability of accessories/cases.
Considerations for UAE Buyers
While the OnePlus Open shines, UAE buyers should keep the following in mind:
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The IP rating is IPX4 (splash-resistant only)—no full water or dust resistance.
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Warranty and service may be more complex for OnePlus devices in the UAE than for more established brands. Some forum users report warranty service issues.
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Foldables remain more delicate than traditional bar phones; even though the OnePlus Open feels robust, precautions (case, avoid extreme conditions) are wise—especially in dusty, sandy environments like UAE beaches.
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Pricing: In UAE online listings, you can find the OnePlus Open for approximately AED 3,988 to AED 4,300(approx.) for the 16 GB+512 GB variant.
Conclusion of OnePlus Open
In summing up the OnePlus Open review for the UAE market, the standout takeaway is clear: this foldable device genuinely feels durable, despite its lightweight build. The intelligent use of premium materials, a finely engineered hinge system and ergonomic form factor combine to deliver a phone that doesn’t just look good—it handles real-world use. While it may lack some extreme protection features, for most users in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, the OnePlus Open offers a strong balance of durability, design and performance. If you’ve been hesitant about foldables because of fear of fragility, this device may well change your mind.
FAQs of OnePlus Open
Q.1. Is the OnePlus Open durable despite being lightweight?
Yes — the OnePlus Open uses aerospace-grade materials (titanium alloy, carbon fibre), a simplified hinge mechanism and weighs only around 239g, making it both light and robust.
Q.2. What is the build thickness when folded?
When folded, the OnePlus Open is about 11.7mm thick, making it one of the thinnest full-sized foldables available.
Q.3. Can the OnePlus Open handle daily use in UAE conditions (dust, sand, heat)?
Yes — its strong build and premium materials help it handle daily use well. However, it only has IPX4 splash resistance (no dust rating), so extra caution is advisable around sand or water.
Q.4. Does the lightweight design mean it sacrifices performance or durability?
No — the OnePlus Open combines flagship-level specs (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 16GB RAM, triple camera) with a robust build. Reviewers say it doesn’t feel compromised despite the light form.
Q.5. Is the OnePlus Open a good value foldable for UAE buyers?
For buyers prioritising durability + lightweight form in a premium foldable, yes—it offers strong value. But consider support/warranty aspects and whether you need features like full water/dust protection or wireless charging.
