Apple has officially launched its online store in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion within the Kingdom. This development allows Saudi customers to purchase Apple products directly from the company for the first time, offering a comprehensive range of devices and services with Arabic-language support.
Online Store Launch
The online store, which went live in July 2025, provides Saudi consumers with access to Apple’s full lineup of products, including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches, and accessories. This platform offers personalized services such as device customization, shopping assistance, and localized customer support, ensuring a seamless shopping experience tailored to the local audience.
Physical Retail Stores on the Horizon
Building on the online store’s launch, Apple plans to open several flagship retail stores across Saudi Arabia starting in 2026. Among these, a notable store is slated for Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Riyadh. This location underscores Apple’s commitment to integrating with the Kingdom’s cultural and economic developments.
Educational Initiatives and Developer Support
Apple’s expansion in Saudi Arabia is not limited to retail. The company has been actively contributing to the Kingdom’s technological development through educational initiatives. In 2021, Apple established the Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh in partnership with the Saudi government, Tuwaiq Academy, and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. This all-women academy has trained nearly 2,000 coders, designers, and entrepreneurs, many of whom have published apps on the App Store for local and global markets.
In addition to the Developer Academy, Apple hosted Saudi Arabia’s first coed Apple Foundation Program in the summer of 2024. This month-long course introduced students to the fundamentals of coding and app development, with a focus on gaming. The next cohort is scheduled for spring 2025, highlighting Apple’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Apple’s investments have significantly contributed to job creation and innovation across various sectors in Saudi Arabia. Over the past five years, the company has spent more than 10 billion Saudi Riyals with local companies. The Saudi developer community continues to thrive, with earnings for developers in the Kingdom increasing by over 1,750 percent since 2019. This growth reflects the burgeoning app economy and the opportunities it presents for local talent.
Integration with Local Infrastructure
Apple has also integrated its Apple Pay system with Riyadh’s public transport network. This integration makes Riyadh the first city in the Middle East where passengers can use Apple’s Express Mode—a feature allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to pay for transport without unlocking their devices. This development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to modernize its economy and attract international investment.
Conclusion
Apple’s expansion in Saudi Arabia, marked by the launch of the online store and plans for physical retail locations, signifies a deepening relationship between the tech giant and the Kingdom. Through retail presence, educational initiatives, and integration with local infrastructure, Apple is poised to play a pivotal role in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation and economic diversification efforts.
