Both versions of the Samsung Galaxy Tab (16GB and 32GB) will be launching in the Middle East for the first week of October, coming in at US$820 and US$970 respectively.

A spokesperson from Samsung has told us that both English and Arabic versions of the Tab will be available in stores. Like most launches out here, no carriers have picked up the Tab so we’ll left with SIM-free unlocked versions.

Sammy’s seven-incher is the closest we’ve seen anyone come to matching Apple’s tablet experience. It’s pocketable (just), runs Android 2.2, supports microSD and Flash 10.1 and doesn’t rock about when you type on a table top, so in many ways it’s better. You can also make calls and there are front and rear cams (3MP on the back). Check out our full hands-on, here.

Gadgets in the Middle East usually sell for a premium (usually US$100-200 more expensive) so with carrier subsidies in the rest of the world, you might be looking at a bargain (if you don’t call the Middle East your home, that is).

Learn more about the Samsung Galaxy Tab, here.

Don’t want to pay for Sammy’s slate, then how does getting one for free sound? Check out our competition and you could be the first person in the Middle East to get your hands on the Galaxy Tab.

[UPDATE - that's AED3,010 for the 16GB and AED3,560 for the 32GB]

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2. Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 available next month
3. Samsung Galaxy S II and Galaxy Tab II spotted ahead of launch
4. Bigger, faster Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 is here
5. Samsung Galaxy S II getting an HD display