Shopping for your child's first phone? Here's what you can get Last updated: May 12, 2026 | 15:01 Smartphones can be a powerful tool for learning, creativity, and staying connected, but experts agree that before the age of 12 or 13, children shouldn’t have unrestricted access. shutterstock Eid Al Adha gifting has a way of bringing out the “practical but exciting” side of shopping, especially when it comes to choosing a child’s first phone. You skip the high specs, and consider something simple enough to use, sturdy enough to survive everyday drops, and affordable enough not to cause parental panic. With so many budget-friendly options now packing decent cameras, big batteries and smooth enough performance for calls, school apps and a bit of entertainment, finding a good starter smartphone under Dh800 is easier than it used to be. This list rounds up five beginner-friendly phones that strike that balance, basic, reliable and just right for kids stepping into their first smartphone experience this Eid Al Adha.…