Apple Can Now Retail And Market Products In Saudi Arabia
For the first time ever, Apple is now able to retail and market its products in Saudi Arabia, according to a recent report.
The news comes from the Saudi Arabian newspaper Al Eqtisadiah (via AppleInsider), which indeed notes that Cupertino has been granted “first-time access” to the region.
Besides retailing and marketing products, Apple has also received a license to conduct product research in Saudi Arabia. According to a source, the iPhone-maker will be able to “conduct product maintenance and marketing activities, conduct training, and work to develop the region's I.T., computer, and smart device industry.”
AppleInsider adds that the decision:
is part of a new strategy targeting foreign investment and business entities that represent possible value to Saudi Arabia's economy, which has a unique investment environment when it comes to foreign entities.
In 2012, Apple acquired the Israel-based Anobit and started performing research in the country. The company also opened a semiconductor development facility in Israel the year before.
As of this writing, however, we're unsure if Apple's presence in Saudi Arabia will take a firm focus on research or if Cupertino will instead concentrate on its retail efforts in the country.
Either way, given that Saudi Arabia is said to have previously blocked Apple's FaceTime protocol this is definitely a positive move.
We'll keep you updated with further information as we receive it.
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