Diriyah Company, the developer of Saudi Arabia's premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination, today (December 8) announced that Apple has executed a lease to open an iconic flagship store in the heart of Diriyah Square, marking a major milestone in the development of the premier retail district.

The announcement follows Apple’s recent confirmation that it will introduce the first of several flagship Apple Store locations across Saudi Arabia starting in 2026, including the iconic store at the stunning site of Diriyah, home to the Unesco World Heritage site At-Turaif, coming later.

A $63.2 billion integrated urban development, Diriyah has till date awarded more than $27 billion in construction contracts. Once complete, it will contribute $18.6 billion directly to the kingdom’s GDP, create more than 180,000 jobs and will be home to an estimated 100,000 people.

On the strategic deal, Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: "Having this iconic flagship store in the heart of Diriyah Square is an incredible milestone for Diriyah, the City of Earth, and for Apple as one of our most esteemed retail partners."

This partnership with Apple exemplifies Diriyah Square’s status as Saudi Arabia’s premier lifestyle and retail hub, blending global brands with authentic Saudi heritage, he stated.

The mega project will include museums, shopping districts, a university, the Royal Diriyah Opera House, the Diriyah Arena, a variety of food and beverage outlets, and nearly 40 world-class resorts and hotels spanning its two main masterplans.

Additionally, Diriyah will also boast the Royal Golf Club, Wadi Safar, home to a Greg Norman–designed championship golf course and the Royal Equestrian & Polo Club, Wadi Safar, it added.-TradeArabia News Service