Apple Launches Its Official Online Retail Store in Saudi Arabia
For Saudi users, this launch could mean easier access and a better experience, though the premium price tag might still sting.
If you're an iPhone fan in Saudi Arabia, you may not have to rely on third-party sellers to buy iPhones, iPads, and Macs anymore. Apple launched its first online store in the country on July 22, 2025, letting locals buy directly from the tech giant for the first time. This move, paired with plans for physical stores starting in 2026, could tackle the hassle of limited access to Apple’s ecosystem in the region.
The new online store and app offer Arabic support, personalized recommendations, and easy order tracking. Need help setting up your new Mac? Apple’s got you covered with chat or phone support for data transfers and activations. Localised perks like Tamara’s buy-now-pay-later option and trade-in credits make purchases more flexible, while free recycling sweetens the deal. Students and educators can score discounts through the Education Store, with free AirPods thrown in until September 30.
For years now, Apple has been slowly rolling out its stores in various regions. It rolled out online stores in India (2020) and in Malaysia (2024), growing its 535+ stores across 27 countries. Unlike India’s crowded market, where Apple battled fierce competition, Saudi Arabia’s less saturated tech scene offers a chance to dominate. But compared to Amazon or Google, Apple’s direct-to-consumer focus, like engraving in Arabic or tailored setups, could feel more personal than their broader e-commerce plays.
Emmanuel Oyedeji
This comes at a time when Saudi Arabia’s tech-savvy population and growing economy make it a no-brainer, despite human rights concerns casting a shadow. Apple’s joining Amazon, Google, and Nvidia in tapping the Kingdom’s market, spurred by deals like the $600 billion Saudi-U.S. investment announced in May 2025. The Riyadh Developer Academy, opened in 2021, shows Apple’s long-term bet on local talent and app growth.
In the coming years, Apple’s 2026 physical stores, including a flagship in Diriyah, could redefine tech retail in the Gulf. But how they deal with customer service and satisfaction will be key; screw that up, and it’s a missed opportunity.
For Saudi users, this launch could mean easier access and a better experience, though the premium price tag might still sting. Apple’s playing a smart game here, blending global reach with local flavour, but it’s a tightrope walk in a complex region.
