Saudi customers alert: Apple Retail arrives in the country

Image credit: Apple Newsroom/Website

Apple announced on July 21 the expansion of its retail operations into the Saudi Arabia, unveiling the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app — both now available in Arabic for the first time. This milestone ushers in a new era for Saudi customers, who can now access Apple’s full range of products and services directly from Apple with dedicated local support.

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“We are thrilled to bring the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app to Saudi Arabia, offering customers a new way to explore and shop Apple’s extraordinary lineup of products and services,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail and People. “Our customers in Saudi Arabia are passionate about the things they can do with technology, and our teams can’t wait to connect with customers and help them discover how Apple innovations can meaningfully enrich their daily lives.”

Personalised and seamless shopping experience

The Apple Store online is the ideal platform for customers in Saudi Arabia to discover, explore, and purchase Apple’s complete product lineup.

Through the Apple Store app, users benefit from a personalized shopping journey, with tailored product recommendations based on devices they already own. The app also enables customers to compare different models, save favorite items, and track orders conveniently, an Apple newsroom report said.

Particularly spotlighted is the new iPhone 16 lineup, which Apple highlights as “built from the ground up for Apple Intelligence.” This latest generation unlocks advanced capabilities to enhance user experience, while also taking a significant step forward in user privacy and data protection.

For Mac users, Apple offers customisable, configure-to-order options allowing shoppers to select specifications such as chip, memory, and storage to suit their unique needs. Apple Watch buyers can also personalize their devices by mixing and matching cases and bands for a distinct look.

In a first for Apple’s Arabic-speaking customers, free engraving is now available in both Arabic and English on select products including AirPods, Apple Pencil, and AirTag. Customers can add text, emojis, and numbers in dual languages at no additional cost via apple.com/sa-en/store.

Enhanced retail services tailored for Saudi customers

Apple’s retail services in Saudi Arabia are designed to provide a seamless and comprehensive shopping experience. Customers can connect with Apple experts through chat or phone for personalized product guidance, ensuring they find the device that best fits their lifestyle and needs.

After purchase, Apple offers online assistance with Personal Setup, which includes help migrating data safely when switching to iOS, and support for cellular activation.

In addition to flexible shopping options, Apple has partnered with Tamara to offer “Buy Now, Pay Later” installments at zero percent interest, allowing customers to pay over four months. This affordability program makes it easier for shoppers to access Apple’s latest technology without upfront financial strain.

Apple’s Trade In program is also available to Saudi customers, offering credit towards new devices when trading in eligible older devices. Devices that don’t qualify for credit can still be recycled for free, supporting Apple’s environmental commitment by reducing electronic waste and conserving resources.

Customers can also opt for AppleCare+, which provides two years of priority service and expert technical support for iPhone, Mac, iPad, and Apple Watch devices. The plan offers peace of mind through coverage options and priority access to Apple support teams.

Additionally, Apple’s Education Store offers exclusive discounts on Macs and iPads for higher education students, parents, and educators across all levels. Until September 30, eligible customers can also benefit from a special back-to-school promotion that includes free AirPods or accessories with the purchase of qualifying devices.

Looking ahead: Apple’s future physical stores in Saudi Arabia

Building on the momentum of its digital launch, Apple announced plans to open several flagship Apple Store locations in Saudi Arabia, beginning in 2026. Among these is a highly anticipated retail store in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which Apple describes as an iconic addition to the country’s cultural landscape.

This retail expansion complements Apple’s ongoing investments in the region, including the first Apple Developer Academy in the Middle East, which opened in Riyadh in 2021. The academy is a partnership with the Saudi government, Tuwaiq Academy, and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, aimed at nurturing local talent in app development and technology innovation.

With the launch of the Apple Store online, app, and the upcoming physical stores, Apple is set to deepen its connection with Saudi Arabia’s tech-savvy consumers while supporting the country’s growing digital economy.