Apple Expands Retail Presence and Developer Programs in Saudi Arabia: A New Chapter of Innovation and Growth
Apple Expands Retail Presence in Saudi Arabia
*Key Points:
- Online Store Launch: Apple will launch its online store in summer 2025, offering a full range of products with exceptional service and support in Arabic.
- Physical Stores: The first flagship Apple Store is set to open in 2026, with an iconic location planned for Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Developer Academy: The all-women Apple Developer Academy at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University has trained nearly 2,000 students, contributing to the vibrant app economy.
- Foundation Program Expansion: Apple is expanding its coed Apple Foundation Program to offer coding and app development courses, with a new cohort planned for spring 2025.
- Economic Impact: The Saudi developer community has seen a significant increase in earnings, up over 1,750% since 2019.
- Apple Pay Integration: Apple services, including Apple Pay, are now available on Riyadh’s new metro system, offering secure and convenient transit payment options.