Apple CEO Tim Cook confirmed during the company’s fiscal Q3 2025 earnings call that new Apple Store locations will open in India and the United Arab Emirates before the end of the year. Though no specific grand-opening dates were provided, the announcement signals a major expansion push into these markets.
Expansion Vision: India and UAE
Tim Cook stated, “We recently launched the Apple Store online in Saudi Arabia, and we couldn’t be more excited to open new stores in the UAE and India later this year.” This development follows Apple’s online retail debut in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its broader Middle East and South Asia growth strategy.
In India, Apple plans to open physical retail locations in Bengaluru, Delhi (NCR), Mumbai, and Pune. With the first two Apple Stores launched in Mumbai and New Delhi in 2023, these new stores will bring India’s total to six.
Meanwhile, in the UAE, Apple is planning a new store in Al Ain, joining its existing two stores in Dubai and two in Abu Dhabi, further anchoring its retail presence in the Gulf region.
A Response to Record Growth
This retail expansion arrives amid unprecedented growth in Apple’s Indian business. In the April–June 2025 quarter, Apple posted record revenue for India, with double-digit growth across iPhones, Macs, and services. The momentum underscores Apple’s commitment to strengthening its physical presence in a market that continues to scale rapidly.
What to Expect from These New Stores
Apple remains tight-lipped on precise layouts or architectural designs, but the company has historically invested in flagship experiences—from Genius Bars to “Today at Apple” sessions offering workshops and support. These new locations will likely offer similar amenities.
While Apple did not confirm dates for these store openings, multiple sources indicate that August could be a key month—not just for India and UAE, but also for several new or relocated Apple Store openings worldwide in the U.S., U.K., Netherlands, and China.
India’s Retail Rise: Bengaluru, Mumbai, and More
In Bengaluru, Apple has reportedly leased nearly 8,000 sq ft at Phoenix Mall of Asia, where it plans to launch its third Indian store. This move is part of Apple’s broader plan to open additional locations in the prime cities of Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and Bengaluru by the end of 2025.
This retail push coincides with Apple’s ongoing supply-chain shift in India. The company now assembles the entire iPhone 16 family (including the 16e) in India for domestic use and export, and prepares to initiate AirPods manufacturing at a facility near Hyderabad in 2025.
Broader Context: UAE and MENA Expansion
Apple already operates four stores in the UAE—two in Dubai and two in Abu Dhabi—and the planned Al Ain location will be its fifth. Beyond retail, Apple expanded into Saudi Arabia’s online store in mid-2025 and has committed to opening its first flagship store in Diriyah (Riyadh region) starting in 2026.
Why These Markets Matter
India remains a priority for Apple’s global growth, supported by strong sales momentum and greater manufacturing autonomy. UAE and the broader Middle East offer strong growth potential, especially as Apple continues enhancing its direct retail and online presence via services like one-way video shopping support.
These new stores not only expand Apple’s retail footprint but also support broader goals: improving service infrastructure, deepening brand loyalty, and offering a full Apple ecosystem experience in high-growth regions.
Final Take
Apple’s announcement to open new retail stores in India and the United Arab Emirates later in 2025 arrives on the back of record-breaking revenue in India and expanding digital infrastructure across the Middle East. With stores planned in Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, and Al Ain, Apple is doubling down on regions where customer demand for direct retail is rising rapidly. Watch for official grand opening timelines—expected as early as August—and stay tuned for Apple’s retail rollout to redefine service and shopping experiences in these key international markets.
Photo Credit: MacRumors
