Apple Plans Flagship Store In The UAE

US-based tech giant Apple could be planning to open a flagship store in the UAE, according to recent job listings posted on its website.

The company has advertised for 13 new positions in the UAE including business specialist, store leader, business manager and inventory specialist, among others.

However, the profiles don’t specify the exact location of the jobs within the country.

The move sparked wide media speculation on the possibility of the company finally establishing a regional presence.

In a statement to Arabian Business, Apple confirmed that it was planning a store in the UAE. “The United Arab Emirates is an important country for Apple. We launched the Apple Online Store, UAE in 2011 and it’s one of our fastest growing markets around the world.

“We look forward to opening a physical store in the region, and sharing Apple’s unique shopping experience and services that have been incredibly popular around the world, in the near future,” the statement said.

The visit of Apple CEO Tim Cook to the UAE in February, when he met retailers and distributors across the country, fueled similar rumours.

Speaking to Gulf Business at the time, Ashish Panjabi, COO of Jacky’s Group, said that it was likely that Apple would choose UAE as its first destination in the Middle East.

The move will help the brand increase local exposure, he said.

“Whenever Apple has opened, it’s always changed or enhanced the retail landscape. The same can be expected if they were to open here.

“Apple is behind the curve as far as their regional presence goes. Brands like Samsung have invested heavily in the region and with their own retail presence growing, Apple has a lot of catching up to do,” he added.