Apple Inc. has officially launched its online store and Apple Store app in Saudi Arabia, marking a major milestone in its expansion across the Middle East. The launch, which goes live on July 22, brings Saudi customers next-day delivery, Arabic-language support, product personalization, and a host of new services for the first time.
“This launch will make the 40th country and territory around the world with an Apple Store online,” said Karen Rasmussen, Apple’s Head of Online Retail, in an interview with Arab News. She added that Apple has invested heavily in logistics to ensure a smooth rollout, including the establishment of a distribution center within the Kingdom.
The new platform allows customers to shop Apple’s full range of products online via the website or app, with the added benefit of Arabic and English customer service. The launch also includes flexible payment options, such as zero-interest installment plans through a partnership with Saudi fintech company Tamara.
“We built a distribution center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be able to support all of our customers in the fastest possible way,” Rasmussen said, noting that most orders are expected to arrive the following day.
Among the new offerings is free engraving in both Arabic and English for items like AirPods, Apple Pencil, and AirTag, as well as the ability to trade in old Apple devices for credit toward new purchases. Customers can also subscribe to AppleCare+ on a monthly basis and access express replacement services in Arabic.
For students and educators, the Apple Education Store will offer year-round discounts on Macs and iPads. A back-to-school promotion running through October 21 will allow eligible buyers to receive complimentary AirPods or another accessory with qualifying purchases.
Despite the comprehensive digital rollout, the question remains: when will Saudi Arabia see its first physical Apple Store?
Rasmussen confirmed that Apple plans to open its first flagship store in the Kingdom in 2026, with an additional store planned for Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While Diriyah won’t host the first store, Rasmussen emphasized that Apple is working closely with local partners to ensure a landmark retail experience in the historic district.
“The investment in Saudi Arabia is something that Apple has been very focused on for a very long time,” she said, revealing that Apple has invested over SR10 billion ($2.67 billion) in the Kingdom over the past five years, including initiatives like the Apple Developer Academy.
“This is just one step in a broader journey of long-term investment in the Kingdom,” Rasmussen concluded.
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
LinkedIn
RSS