Apple announces major expansion in Saudi Arabia

An American multinational corporation and technology giant, Apple, unveiled plans on Monday to significantly grow its presence in Saudi Arabia, starting with the launch of an online store in the summer of 2025.

This will provide customers with access to Apple’s full product range, support services, and Arabic-language options.

The tech giant will also establish flagship retail stores in the country by 2026, including an iconic outlet in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These initiatives aim to bring Apple’s products and services closer to Saudi customers while enhancing their experience.

Apple has already made substantial contributions to Saudi Arabia’s economy, spending over SR10 billion ($2.6 billion) with local companies in the past five years. The expansion will create new job opportunities and support various sectors, including small businesses, artists, entrepreneurs, and commuters.

“Our teams are looking forward to deepening our connections with customers and helping people across this country explore their passions, build their businesses, and take their ideas to the next level,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.

Apple is gradually making inroads in Saudi Arabia following the launch of the region’s first Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh in 2021. Aimed at women, this partnership with the Saudi government, Tuwaiq Academy, and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University has trained nearly 2,000 students, empowering them to create and publish apps for domestic and international audiences.