Apple Temporarily Closes All Retail Stores in the United Arab Emirates

One of the Apple Stores in Dubai (photo: dok. Apple)

Apple temporarily closed its five retail stores in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This closure consists of three locations in Abu Dhabi and two locations in Dubai starting in early March.

The company's official website shows that store operations will be suspended at least until Tuesday, March 3. This policy was taken following the appeal of the local government, where private companies must limit the presence of workers in open areas.

One of the affected outlets is in the Dubai Mall, very close to Burj Khalifa. The Apple Store at the location posted an announcement about the store's closure, but without a clear opening date.

The retail store is said to not operate until further notice. Other locations that were closed were at the Mall of the Emirates and at several major Abu Dhabi malls. Visitors at Yas Mall and Al Maryah Island are now unable to visit the Apple Store.

Internal information quoted by MacRumors states that this closure is related to the ongoing conflict tensions in the Middle East region. Apple is paying close attention to this situation to protect its employees and customers.

Apple usually rarely closes its retail stores simultaneously in one country if there is no very high urgency. This closure shows how precarious the field situation is currently in the UAE.

During the closure, customers are advised to use online services or the Apple Store app. The company will continue to monitor the development of the situation before deciding to reopen its retail stores.